QuiltE

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

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

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

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

QuiltE

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

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

sewingpup

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

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

Quiltah Mama

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

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.