According to the Sew Fit Company, who manufactured my mat, it IS a cutting mat. (I just looked at them on-line.) I don't know if all the large ones, regardless of manufacturer, are the same, but I've not had problems with mine and I've had it for about 30 years. I have some small bits to cut for the quilt I am currently piecing; the only 2 small-ish mats I have are Fiskars & June Taylor, so I'll be doing some experimenting with them & my rotary cutters/blades within the next few days. If I come to any conclusions, I'll share with you.