do cutting mats wear out?
 

I have a large mat that is about 6 years old. (One of the "smelly" type.) I don't use it all that often now, but have used it a lot in the past. I haven't cut much in the past couple of years, but now have a project I need to get done in a hurry and decided to cut almost 1000 pieces on it. I am only trying to cut about 4 to 6 layers at a time but my cutter leaves big gaps in places. (45 mm) I have put 2 different NEW blades in the cutter and still having problems. All of the fabric I'm using is good grade 100% cotton. Do the mats dry out or something??? Or what? I'm getting very frustrated and need to get this cut. Any suggestions appreciated. Thanks for any help/advice!

The mats do get grooves in them - have you tried washing it or wiping it down with a fine steel wool ? Maybe try cutting in a different area of the mat ?

Is the gaps in the fabric -like not cutting all layers- or gaps like holes in the mat?

Yes, they do wear out --at least mine did. I had to get a new one and it made all the difference. Treat yourself to a new one.

YES they get worn out.. Im finally replacing mine after 20 years of loyal service..
Both Vertical & horizontal Zero lines are cut completely thru the mat up to like 20 or so... I cant read my 10,15,20,25,30 lines anymore and there are bias deep groove cuts that have become quite annoying when im cutting in that area.. So for $100 for a 20 year service that isnt so bad..

I have a sew/fit mat.. and I love it..

I change out mats often. When I find a sale I buy one if I need it or not. I counted six big mats behind my bookcase and I know I have many smaller ones in drawer. I only buy when I find a 50% off sale. I always have a new one available. Once I get grooves in a mat I call it worn out The self healing mats will dry out. They need to be hydrated to stay self healing. Soak it in room temp water over night and let air dry flat, not in the sun. I do this with the new mats about once a year that I have in my stash and haven't used yet.

Mine wore out and I got a new one. Then I upgraded to a bigger one and am so much happier. My blades are happier too!!!

You probably need a new one, but here's some info on rejuvinating the one you have now. Might be worth trying before you get a new one

http://www.quiltingboard.com/main-f1...on-t64181.html

I've had one Olfa mat for over 10 years. i got another one a few years ago and use it mostly with the older one to the right of the new one. I sometimes cut long strips the length of fabric and use both.
you're supposed to be able to soak them in the tub and let dry flat to renew them. mine are fine so far.

I bought an Olfa mat when I first started quilting, probably 20 years ago. I would still be using it except you shouldn't iron your mat. Ask me how I know. I still use the mat for small projects. I can't believe that you cut groves in your mats--you must be cutting too hard or something. My mats are as good as new. At least the Olfa mats are.
Sue