Mats: the Martelli as they seem to last much longer are are gentler on your rotary blade. Well worth it. I do have 2 very large mats that I store under my bed for squaring up quilts. These aren't Martelli as I don't use them enough to find them cost effective.

Rotary cutters: depends on what fits you best. Many of my friends love the Martelli ergonomic rotary cutters. I can't use them because I would need finger pressure I don't have. Borrow from friends and try the out. I love Fiskars pistol grip cutters and the Olfa squeeze grip cutters where the blade goes back in when you aren't using them [the absolute best for working in a class or with others, no accidents waiting to happen.] Basically, whatever you bond with and can work effectively with.

ali

I also like the Olfa ergonomic (curved handle), the blade recesses back into the cutter when you release your grip from the handle vs the straight handle where you have to push the cover back over the blade manually. It's funny how many times i've nicked myself with the straight handle style and still would find myself putting down the cutter with the blade exposed.

Self healing mats are nice, I use both Olfa and Omnigrid mats myself (I guess I like the green) and I have a few different styles and sizes. There are a wide variety of mats with various markings on them so choose which one fits your quilting style best.

I use Olfa the most.

I have several brands of mats and the same with the cutters. Actually I haven't noticed a bit of difference in any of the, I do have a Martinelli ergonomical cutter and it does help if you have hand and wrist problems.

I like the Fiskars cutter because when you set it down, it automatically closes (as does the Olfa)
I cant use the straight handle ones, it bothers my wrists alot.

Thanks everyone. I appreciate the input. If it quits snowing, I am going to Joanns tomorrow and get one.

I would have to say in my honest opinion that the OLFA brand is best - as for me the blades have always stayed sharper far longer than Fiskars and are the brand most regularly on sale. Which means - I can stock up on blades and different sizes versus other brands that are just as good, but that don't very often go on sale at any of my local craft stores.

Explosive blessings, abundance and inspiration to you all!
- The Creative Seamstress

Ditto