I just thought of it when using some of the mats for various things around the house and thought they'd be ideal for templates..anyone tried it..they are the kind you get at teh dollar stores

I usually buy a few yards of the clear table covering. Its heavy enough to be used again and again.
MK

I have used the cutting mats for templates. I have also used them to make stencils. They will cut easily with a rotary blade, so I only use them for fussy cuts. They are great for patterns I think I might use again. They are thin enough to store in a sheet protector with the pattern for future use.

I think its a great idea. I use all kinds of stuff too, like coffee can lids. Anything to save a bit of money!

I have used them, works great. A lot cheaper than the stuff they sell for templates!

I cut my own for applique all of the time. pab

What is it that you use for templates? I found that the template plastic sheets are ok but so expensive! plus, I'd really like something I can use with my rotary cutter, scissors straight line and I don't always mesh well :)

She is talking about the thin semi-transparent mats that sometimes come 2 in a package for a dollar, and are supposed to be used to make sandwiches or chop veggies on--found in the kitchen supply section of dollar stores. I got them for camping , but never thought of using them for templates. This is a great idea.

I wash and save the plastic that comes in packages of bacon for this---works great.

Great idea, Shunem!