Best Quilting Cutting Mat [Reviews & FAQs]

Best Quilting Cutting Mat

When you’re getting ready to begin a new quilting project, it can be wise to take some time to review your tools, make sure they are in working order, and make any new purchases you might need. As you begin to outline your square patterns, you’ll want to be sure that your cutting mat is in working order, allowing you to easily slice fabric, ensuring your patterns are sharp, and that none of your materials are wasted. Basically these qualities define the best quilting cutting mat.

THE IDEAL CUTTING MAT

Before you begin cutting any fabric for a quilting project, you’ll want to take a look at your cutting mat to ensure it is in good working order, and that it will allow you to work smoothly and easily. It is best to always work on a flat, solid surface when cutting fabric.

To test that your cutting mat is in good condition, you can try cutting old pieces of fabric to ensure there is no snagging as you cut – or even just run a blade across the surface of your mat to be sure the movement is smooth.Best Quilting Cutting Mat

If you’ve noticed that your mat has become worn, it may be time for a replacement. With a huge variety of mats on the market, it can be difficult to know which one will work well for you. Luckily, we’ve put together a review of some of the best and most reliable quilting mats available for purchase.


Best Cutting Mat for Quilting & Sewing Reviews

Fiskars Self Healing Rotary Cutting Mat 

Fiskars Self Healing Rotary Cutting Mat

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For any quilter who is looking for something extra/out of the ordinary in their cutting mat, Fiskars offers this large and unique cutting mat that will certainly stand out above the rest. This uniquely designed mat is beloved by sewers and quilters for its quality, durability, and long-lasting design.

The Fiskars Self Healing mat is truly one of the best and most innovative mats currently available on the market. The extra large size is perfect for unusual patterns and cutting needs, and the double-sided mat allows you flexibility while working, and the assurance that your mat will be long-lasting and reliable. Anyone who finds traditional cutting mats to be too small will be delighted with the large Fiskars mat.


OLFA Double-Sided, Self-Healing Rotary Mat 

OLFA Double-Sided, Self-Healing Rotary Mat

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When it comes to cutting mats, OLFA is the most trusted name in the game. For years, quilters have relied on OLFA mats as the standard in quilting mats available on the market. With this double-sided, self-healing rotary mat, OLFA has created a quilting mat that goes above and beyond in terms of longevity and innovation.

One thing that quilters love about the OLFA mat is the many different grid lines, angle measurements, and options for measuring that come along with the mat. The ability to work from different angle, and the bold and easy to read grid lines have made the OLFA one of the most highly rated cutting mats you can buy.


Fiskars Rotary Sewing Cutting Set

Fiskars Rotary Sewing Cutting Set

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For anyone who is looking to get started with quilting, or who has a few tools to replace, this 3-piece rotary cutting set by Fiskars is the perfect option. This kit includes a cutting mat, rotary blade, and handy separate seam-measuring piece.

Fiskars is a trusted quilting brand, but despite the high quality of these materials, the excellent price has made them the top pick for many quilters. If you’re looking to get started in the quilting world or are looking for a great gift for a talented quilter, this Fiskars set is for you!


Omnigrid Fold-Away Portable Cutting Station 

Omnigrid Fold-Away Portable Cutting Station

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The Omnigrid portable cutting station is truly unique, and designed for people who craft on the go, or who need to pack away all of their materials between quilting sessions. One side of the station is a cutting mat, while the other provides a surface for pressing.

Anyone who quilts on the go, or who is looking for excellent tool that can help keep their supplies and their clutter to a minimum will love the simple and genius design of the Omnigrid Fold-Away. With top quality and excellent design, this great mat also comes at an excellent price point, and is a wonderful investment for any quilter.


Quilting Cutting Mat Frequently Asked Questions [FAQs]

  • What is a self-healing cutting mat?
    Self-healing cutting mats are made up of thousands of small components that are grouped together to create the surface area. When you cut into a cutting mat, the slices that are made on the surface are “healed” as these fibers reshape and reform.
  • How often do I need to change out my cutting mat?
    Unfortunately, cutting mats are a quilting tool that will certainly not last forever, and will need to be replaced with some regularity. Even with heavy-duty usage, a quality cutting mat should last you for a few years.
  • How will I know when to replace my cutting mat?
    A worn cutting mat will show signs of wear on the surface, with frayed sections, and will provide a noticeably less smooth cutting experience.
  • What cutting mat size will I need for quilting?
    Because quilters tend to do their work in sections, or squares, most can comfortably work on a cutting mat that is 36 inches or less. Any quilter who prefers to work with a large working area can find custom cutting mats that are much larger in size.
  • Can I quilt without purchasing a cutting mat?
    Technically, it is possible to quilt without a cutting mat, but to do so would be needlessly challenging, and might cause you some difficulty with your patterns. A cutting mat allows you to be very precise in your measurements and cuts, making for high-quality finished quilts.

Wrapping Up!

It is technically possible to quilt without using a cutting mat, but we do not recommend it. The smooth surface, measurable area, and friendly materials that won’t allow for dulling of your tools are invaluable features for quilters.

It can be very easy for beginner quilters to overlook the importance of a cutting mat, and the role it plays in your final product. Before you get started on an ambitious quilting project, be sure to do your research and choose one of these high-quality cutting mats for your work. Hope, you’ll find it very useful for in the long run!


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2 COMMENTS

    • The warping of cutting mats can occur due to various factors, including changes in temperature, humidity, or improper storage. Even though you kept it out of direct sunlight, fluctuations in humidity or exposure to heat sources can still lead to warping over time. To minimize warping, try storing your cutting mats flat, avoiding extreme temperatures or humidity, and using them on a stable surface. If the warping persists, you may want to consider investing in higher-quality mats or exploring alternative materials that are less prone to warping.

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