I use the back of my mat for batting as it seems to stick in the grooves the most, I do have 2 mats that I alternate between when cutting my fabrics. I use a nylon scrubber all over the front then use a chalkboard eraser to pick up the left over fabrics, so far this has worked for me but someday I hope to get a bigger mat so I have less trouble cutting larger fabrics on, still working on changing spare bedroom into my new sewing room. Finally getting to the last stages of emptying the room for painting & flooring and then putting up the oldest model of Tin Lizzie long arm to start learning how to use one, this will be a real learning experience for me. I can't wait I'm so excited...but I know I will be lost as to how to use it, so wish me luck everyone. I will be asking for advice from all you miracle workers here.
Jeri