When I use a long ruler such as the 4 by 36 " size, I use those large clamps (made out of plastic and with release lever on the inside handle). This ruler has a lip so it goes on the side closest to me and the clamp goes on the opposite side of the ruler. Works great. The clamps work well with some of my other rulers. They hold down the ruler and the cutting mat to the cutting table well. Depending on the size and shape of the ruler, I use one or two. The clamps are found in hardware stores, chain stores such as Lowes or Home Depot. A bit unorthodox, but it works for me.