lynnie

I've had my mat for about 10 yrs now and don't do any of that. my sink is too small but I have a large shower, took the tub out and put a river rock base down. I can't stop up the shower floor. should I just pour or spray the mat with vinegar water?

Rosyhf

I throw mine outside and hose it down, scrub it with a broom soap and vinegar and they are at least 20 years old and still going. when I don't needs the ruled lines, I turn the mat over and cut on the back, I just draw a straight line up and down and across, for when I need to line up. Oh if you are going to do this, make sure it's at sunset when no sun is in that spot lol....

sewbizgirl

I hate to be the one to tell you, but soaking does absolutely nothing for your mat except get it wet for a while. When it's all full of cutting grooves on one side, turn it over and start using the back. When that's shot, buy an new one. That's the truth on cutting mats.

Rosyhf

That's right SB, I just hose mine down. If you change your blades often when needed, the mat will last longer and it's less stress on your wrist. Another tip, I don't know if I can explain this well. Don't hold your wrist and hand up when cutting. Hold you arm, like at you side, your elbow should be a 90degee angle, slide the blade forward, do not lift up you hand, like to get on top. It will cut so much better.

HouseDragon

I have a basket made from palm fronds that's at least fifteen years old. Should I mist it?

Geri B

I also do the yearly wetting on a hand caned chair (seat is caned) I have........and all my baskets...cheap and/or expensive......part of the spring cleaning ritual......