Feathers-N-Fur

Are you using a quilting ruler? If I want say a 2.5" strip, I put the 2.5" line on the cut edge of the fabric, then cut along the edge of the ruler.

SandyinZ4

My cutting mat is over 15 years old. I was wondering if I should get a new one. After reading this, I think I will. Will donate the old one to our quilt guild to just keep on hand just in case someone forgets to bring one. It is ok but bet a new one will be an improvement.

jmabby

Either wait for JoAnns quilting sale or use 50% coupon, makes it easier to buy one

pjnesler

Lots of Great info showing up on this subject in this post - I don't have any inspiring input, but sure am happy to have gotten more knowledge on the subject!

smcfadden

Learner 747, would you mind posting the url of the website? Thanks.

tjradj

If you compare the cost of a new mat to the cost of all the fabric you've cut on it to get it into this condition, the answer is clear. New Mat !!

windycitygal

Sounds like it is time to bite the bullet and get a new mat. Do you have a guild in your area you could join where there might be other quilters to learn from?I attend 2 guilds and a quilting bee and find I learn so much from others while I share my knowledge with them. Maybe you could get someone to show you how to use the rotary cutter so that you are not putting so much pressure on the blade. I would also suggest you try cutting fewer layers at a time. Afterall, cutting is more about accuracy not a race to see how fast we can get it done.

Canada Kate

If I lived in the States, I would! We don't have JoAnns in Canada.

SandyinZ4

Just adding to this post. I just watched a video with Marianne Fons and she uses the back side of her mat with no lines. I never thought of that so now I will have a few more good years of cutting and a like new mat on the backside. I never use the lines on it anyhow as I usually use my ruler for measuring.