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QuiltE 02-14-2024 12:49 PM

Cutting a Cutting Mat??
 
Has anyone cut a cutting mat, to have it better fit their table?

Bought these, before I realized they were too wide for the table.
Thought I could "live" with them but it is all too problematic, as is.
https://canada.michaels.com/en/fiska...M10221520.html

Any suggestions on how best to cut them?
(switching the table is not an option)

Onebyone 02-14-2024 01:19 PM

I have cut mats before. The best tool I have found to cut smooth is a pair of straight tin snips. There are left and right tin snips so be sure and use the straight. They are used to cut thin metal insulation. I use them to cut anything solid, zippers, wire, pipe cleaners, mats, vinyl, etc.

cashs_mom 02-14-2024 01:30 PM

I keep my old cutting mats and cut them to fit the bottoms of purses and bags. I've found the best thing to use is my husband's big "tin snips". I'm not sure of the correct name but that's what he calls them and that's what my dad called them.

BonnieJP 02-14-2024 03:46 PM

My husband uses his table saw to cut my cutting mats. The cut pieces are straight and very smooth.

QuiltE 02-14-2024 03:53 PM


Originally Posted by BonnieJP (Post 8637015)
My husband uses his table saw to cut my cutting mats. The cut pieces are straight and very smooth.

Thanks BonnieJP ... I'd been wondering about a table saw, so am glad to hear it has worked for you, and especially that you get it nice and smooth. Does he just cut as is? Or put painters tape on the cut line, to help with the smooth cut? Front and Back? Or which side?

Thanks to the Other Ladies, Too!! ... I have the tin snips, but am hesitant, as I don't think I could snip and keep it straight and smooth. Or have you found a way to make that happen??

These are my main cutting mats.
Thus, why I am being a bit fussy about the end results.

ElaineCovid 02-14-2024 04:26 PM

My husband used his table saw to cut mine smaller when I was using an old one to make a rotating one.

sewingpup 02-14-2024 04:34 PM

If using a table saw, I might run it slow and wear a mask. I don't know how much particles and other fumes might come off of the cutting. My brother trimed an old plexiglass insert with an electric saw and it sure did smell because of the heat of the blade.

sloscotty 02-14-2024 05:21 PM

I use meat scissors to cut mine. Works fine..

Quiltah Mama 02-15-2024 03:45 AM


Originally Posted by ElaineCovid (Post 8637023)
My husband used his table saw to cut mine smaller when I was using an old one to make a rotating one.

I would love to see or have you explain how you made your own rotating cutting mat. I've been wanting one, but don't want to pay the price.

polkweed 02-16-2024 01:15 AM

I've cut one of those selfhealing mats with a boxcutter before.Took a few passes but I was able to use a ruler to keep the edge straight like you do with a rotary cutter.

If you opt to use a power saw- table, jig, or circular would work- you might want to stick the mat to some scrap plywood to stabilize it. I wouldn't worry about a hard plastic, but a rubber one might bend on you.


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