I have a feeling I need a new rotary cutting mat. Both of mine are probably 15 years old and even with a new blade, my cutter isn't working well. The mats do have some grooves in them. When should they be replaced?
I replace mine before the frustration level hits the point you seem to be at. Just because I replace them doesn't mean they get turfed. My original mat is still in use when I am into home improvements and need to use the carpet knife or the like.I have been quilting 20 years and I am easily on my third main mat, might even be the fourth.
Thanks! I think it's time to give in. I needed some justification for buying a new one. But I'll recycle in some way.
I understand your frustration. I also had to replace my mat last year my power went out so i took my quilting out side into the sun and plainly wasn't thinking sat it on a table with a metal rim! You can imagine how warped it got. my mat was also about 15 years old, still haven't parted with it . I've grown attached to my quilting charm. I'd say if you have grooves definitely replace.
Quilting My Rainbow
I recycle mine into bottoms for purses
[Ava, Missouri
I like the newer ones better. They seem to have a better "self healing" construction. And they're reversible too!
Great Idea! Thanks
Old mats will also make great templates if you have something really sharp to cut them with.
Vinton, Virginia
Hi all,
I had warped my curring mat taking it to calss in the truck. I made a discovery by accident! If it can warp on the way to class then it can unwarp on the way home! I laid it flat in the heat on the way home and hot diggedy it was flat again! A sidewalk in the sun or drive way or flat table outside and you have a nice flat mat.
hope this helps someone,
judylee
Great ideas Leslie and Nana.
Millbury, MA
Nana: Old mats will also make great templates if you have something really sharp to cut them with.
Nana-- Carpet knives work great.
Leslie : I recycle mine into bottoms for purses
Leslie--Finally I have a reason to cut down the oldest mat. Thanks.
Leslie / Agnes - that's what I do with my old mats too. They really work great for that, don't they?
Griffin, GA
My mats are all really old and sometimes I turn them over and use the other side. It seems to help
I replaced a blade in my cutter just a few days ago and already it is skipping in one place. I was blaming it on bad blades, because the whole package has been that way. Maybe it is my mat!
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