I purchased my first Shape Cut (12"x12") about 8-10 years ago, and never had a problem with it. I put non-slip grips on the left and right edges. I have always picked it up by the lower left had corner, and one day not too long ago, it broke right at the "0" slot. So I got the duct tape out, taped both sides, and it's good to go. My DH had broken my new Creative Grids 6-1/2"x24" ruler, so he offered to buy me a new one. I had our son cut the ruler into two smaller rulers and I told my DH that he could buy me the 12"x18" Shape Cut. So he did. I used a 50% coupon and ordered it from JoAnn's online (they never carry the larger one in the store).