10 Best Cutting Mats For Quilting (2024 Update)

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If you're an avid quilter, you know how important it is to have the right tools and equipment. One of the essential tools for quilting is a cutting mat. When it comes to cutting mats for quilting, there are a few things you should consider to ensure you're getting the best one for your needs.

First, the size of the cutting mat matters. You need to choose a mat that is big enough to accommodate the size of the fabric you'll be cutting. Second, the thickness of the mat is also important. A thicker mat will protect your table from the blades of your rotary cutter. Third, the material of the mat is important. Self-healing mats are the most popular among quilters because they last longer and are more durable. Fourth, the markings on the mat should be clear and easy to read. This will help you make accurate cuts. Fifth, the overall quality of the mat should be considered. You want a mat that is well-made and will last you a long time.

In summary, when looking for cutting mats for quilting, you should consider the size, thickness, material, markings, and overall quality. By keeping these key points in mind, you'll be able to choose the best cutting mat for your quilting needs.

10 Best Cutting Mats For Quilting

1. Calibre Art Rotating Self Healing Cutting Mat 14×14 (13" Grid), Perfect For Quilting & Art Projects

The Calibre Art Rotating Self Healing Cutting Mat 14×14 (13" Grid) is a must-have tool for quilters and artists. This cutting mat features an expertly designed rotating mechanism that makes rotation very smooth with a non-detachable base, and the cutting surface spins with ease. This guarantees that users can work on their projects without any hindrance or inconvenience.

One of the most impressive features of this cutting mat is the self-healing nature of the mat’s surface compound. This enables the mat to reseal surface cuts, making it long-lasting and smooth. This means that users can enjoy using this cutting mat for a long time without the need to replace it frequently.

The surface compound of the mat is EN 71-3 compliant, which is the most stringent chemical standard for regulating the quality of mat's surface. This ensures that the mat is safe to use and does not contain any harmful chemicals that could be hazardous to the user's health.

The grid lines printed on the mat are very accurate, ensuring precise straight line cuts and quality work every time. This is an important feature for quilters and artists who require precision in their work. The highly accurate grid lines make it easy for users to measure and cut their materials with accuracy, which is essential for creating high-quality work.

The mat has a non-slip bottom base to ensure that the mat stays in place and does not slide around when cutting. This feature is essential for users who need to work on their projects without any interruptions or distractions. The non-slip base guarantees that the mat stays in place, allowing users to focus on their work and achieve their desired results.

In conclusion, the Calibre Art Rotating Self Healing Cutting Mat 14×14 (13" Grid) is a high-quality cutting mat that is perfect for quilters and artists. Its smooth rotation, self-healing material, EN 71-3 compliant surface compound, highly accurate grid lines, and non-slip base make it an essential tool for anyone who wants to achieve precision and quality in their work.

2. Madam Sew 12×12 Rotating Self-Healing Cutting Mat With Lockable Base And Accurate Grid For Quilting, Sewing, And Crafts.

The Madam Sew Self Healing Cutting Mat is the perfect tool for those who enjoy sewing, quilting, and crafting. With its 360-degree rotation feature, this cutting mat is designed to help you trim and square-up blocks with ease. The lockable turntable feature ensures greater stability, allowing you to make precise cuts from all angles.

The non-slip base of the Madam Sew Sewing Cutting Mat makes it a must-have addition to your quilting tools and gadgets. The easy-to-read grid lines ensure dependable measuring of bias cuts and seam allowances. The markings on the rotary cutter mat include 1/8, 1/4, 1/2, and 1 inch, as well as 30, 45, and 60-degree bias lines.

The Madam Sew Craft-Cutting-Mat is versatile and durable, making it perfect for cutting patterns, fabric, leather, felt, and more. The self-healing mat is designed to absorb pressure from rotary blades, craft knives, and utility knives. It is specially designed to withstand the demands of frequent use.

Trimming fabrics on this handy rotary mat is a breeze. Unlike other quilting cutting mats that require you to move around them, the Madam Sew Sewing Cut Mat can be easily turned to accommodate you. This makes it ideal for those who want to complete their projects in a timely and efficient manner.

In conclusion, the Madam Sew Self Healing Cutting Mat is an essential tool for anyone who loves to sew, quilt, or craft. With its lockable turntable, accurate grid and bias lines, and durable self-healing mat, this cutting mat is sure to become your go-to tool for all your cutting needs. Plus, with its special introductory price, you can purchase this cutting mat at an affordable price, making it an excellent value for your money.

3. U.s. Art Supply 36×48 White/blue Self Healing Cutting Mat For Arts & Crafts

The U.S. Art Supply 36" x 48" WHITE/BLUE Professional Self Healing 5 – 6 Layer Double Sided Durable Non-Slip Cutting Mat is an essential tool for any artist, crafter, or quilter. This cutting mat is designed to protect your table top from sharp blades, writing instruments, and other art and craft tools, ensuring that your workspace remains clean and organized.

The cutting mat features a durable 6-layer self-healing construction that can withstand heavy use and resist cuts, nicks, and gouges. The mat is double-sided, with a white surface on one side and a blue surface on the other, allowing you to choose the color that best suits your project. The 1/2" grid with 1/8" marks ensures precise alignment, and the 45° and 60° guides help you cut at the perfect angle.

The green/black mats are reversible, with grid markings on each side, making it easy to flip the mat over and continue working. Cutting mats also have lines for cutting diagonals, which is perfect for quilters and other crafters who need to make precise cuts.

The non-slip surface of the mat ensures that it stays in place while you work, preventing slips and slides that can lead to inaccurate cuts. The mat is also easy to clean, simply wipe it down with a damp cloth or sponge to remove any debris or residue.

This cutting mat is great for a variety of art and craft projects, including scrapbooking, quilting, sewing, and more. It's perfect for both professional and amateur artists, and its large size makes it ideal for working on larger projects.

In conclusion, the U.S. Art Supply 36" x 48" WHITE/BLUE Professional Self Healing 5 – 6 Layer Double Sided Durable Non-Slip Cutting Mat is a must-have tool for any artist, crafter, or quilter. Its durable construction, precise alignment, and non-slip surface make it the perfect choice for all your cutting needs.

4. Fiskars 14×14 Inch Self Healing Rotating Cutting Mat

The Fiskars 14×14 Inch Self-Healing Rotating Cutting Mat is a versatile and durable tool that can make fabric cutting a breeze. Whether you're a quilter, dressmaker, or crafter, this mat can help you achieve accurate and precise cuts every time.

One of the main features of this cutting mat is its rotating design. With a simple turn of the mat, you can easily cut squares of fabric at different angles without having to move your fabric or your body. This can be especially useful when working on intricate designs that require multiple cuts at various angles.

Another benefit of this cutting mat is its self-healing surface. Unlike other mats that can become damaged or worn over time, this mat is designed to last longer and withstand heavy use. The self-healing surface means that small cuts and nicks will not affect the overall performance of the mat, and it will remain smooth and flat for years to come.

In addition to its rotating and self-healing features, the Fiskars cutting mat also has an easy-to-read measuring grid. This grid is marked in both inches and centimeters, making it easy to measure and cut fabric accurately. The grid is also printed in a contrasting color, making it easy to see even in low light conditions.

For those who need to create triangle and star shapes, the cutting mat has 30-, 45-, and 60-degree bias lines. These lines make it easy to create precise angles and shapes, even for those who are new to quilting or sewing.

Overall, the Fiskars 14×14 Inch Self-Healing Rotating Cutting Mat is a high-quality tool that can help make fabric cutting easier and more precise. Its durable design and versatile features make it a must-have for any sewing or crafting enthusiast.

5. Olfa 12×12 Self-Healing Rotating Cutting Mat With Grid For Fabric And Crafts, 360 Degree Rotation, Compatible With Rotary Cutters (Green)

The OLFA 12" x 12" Rotating Cutting Mat (RM-12S) is a professional-grade, self-healing rotary mat designed for precision cutting of fabric, sewing, quilting, and crafts. The two-piece rotating mat eliminates the need to move the project, mat, or yourself, making it a convenient tool for all your cutting needs.

The non-slip stationary bottom layer of the mat allows for smooth and secure rotation, while the top cutting mat rotates 360 degrees and has grid lines for easy and accurate cutting. Its self-healing finish reseals surface cuts for a continually smooth cutting surface, extending the life of your blade and protecting the surfaces of your work area.

The 12"x12" square rotating cutting mat is perfect for intricate projects and small spaces. It is great for cutting multiple layers of fabric, squares, triangles, diamonds, circles, and other shapes that require turning. The mat is designed for use with rotary cutters only and not for use with fixed blade utility knives. To prevent warping, it is recommended to store it flat and out of direct sunlight.

As the original inventor of the Snap-Off Knife, OLFA has maintained a standard of cutting excellence for our quality and durability. Pairing your OLFA Rotary Cutting Mat with OLFA Rotary Cutters will provide optimal results.

In summary, the OLFA 12" x 12" Rotating Cutting Mat is a durable and convenient tool for all your cutting needs. Its self-healing finish and 360-degree rotation make it a reliable and precise choice for fabric, sewing, quilting, and crafts.

6. Quiltcut2 – All-In-One Fabric Cutting System For Quilters With Rotary Cutting Mat, Fabric Clamp, Cutting Guide, And Speed Gauge Ruler.

The QuiltCut2 All-in-One Fabric Cutting System is an indispensable tool for quilters of all levels. It is designed to make cutting fabric with a rotary cutter stable, easy, and accurate. With this cutting system, you can cut any straight-sided shape strips, squares, triangles, diamonds, hexagons, and more, without the need for expensive dies, quilting rulers, or templates.

The QuiltCut2 All-in-One Fabric Cutting System features a locking positional ruler and speed gauge that allow you to cut 10 layers of fabric at a time with less waste and no more slipping rulers. This feature saves quilters valuable time and ensures that they get the most out of their fabric.

The QuiltCut2 All-in-One Fabric Cutting System is also expertly designed to create square-up quilt blocks, strip-piecing, jelly rolls, quilt binding and borders, fussy cuts, and more. This versatility makes it a must-have tool for quilters who want to achieve precise and professional results.

Moreover, the QuiltCut2 All-in-One Fabric Cutting System is not limited to quilting. It can also be used for paper craft, leather craft, scrapbooking, and other similar crafts. The cutting system allows crafters to spend more time creating and less time cutting, making it an excellent investment for anyone who values their time and wants to achieve exceptional results.

In conclusion, the QuiltCut2 All-in-One Fabric Cutting System is an essential tool for quilters and crafters who want to achieve precise and professional results. Its versatility, efficiency, and ease of use make it a valuable investment for anyone who values their time and wants to create beautiful and intricate designs. With the QuiltCut2 All-in-One Fabric Cutting System, cutting fabric and other materials has never been easier or more accurate.

7. Calibre Art Self Healing Rotating Cutting Mat 18×18 (17" Grid), Perfect For Quilting & Art Projects

The Calibre Art Self Healing Rotating Cutting Mat is an ideal tool for those involved in quilting and art projects. The mat has a smooth rotation mechanism that ensures ease of use and a non-detachable base that provides stability during cutting. The cutting surface spins with ease, making it perfect for precision cutting and intricate art projects.

The self-healing nature of the mat’s surface compound ensures that it remains in good condition for a long time. The surface compound can reseal surface cuts, making it long-lasting and durable. This is an essential feature for those who require a cutting mat that can withstand frequent use.

The mat uses EN 71-3 compliant surface compound, which is the most stringent chemical standard for regulating the quality of mat's surface. This ensures that the mat is safe to use and complies with the highest standards in the industry. The material used is not only safe but also environmentally friendly, making it an excellent choice for those who are conscious of their carbon footprint.

The grid lines printed on the mat are highly accurate, ensuring precise straight line cuts and quality work every time. This is crucial for those who require precision cutting in their projects. The mat's grid lines are easy to read, making it easy to align fabrics and other materials for cutting.

The mat has a non-slip bottom base that ensures that it stays in place and does not slide around when cutting. This is an essential feature that ensures safety during use. The non-slip base provides stability, which is crucial when cutting with sharp tools.

In conclusion, the Calibre Art Self Healing Rotating Cutting Mat is an excellent choice for those in the quilting and art industry. It is durable, safe, and environmentally friendly. The smooth rotation mechanism, self-healing surface, accurate grid lines, and non-slip base make it a must-have tool for those who require precision cutting and quality work every time.

8. 35×70" Self-Healing Rotary Cutting Mat Set With Grid For Fabric & Sewing (Green)

The OLFA 35" x 70" Connecting Grid Rotary Cutting Mat Set (RM-CLIPS/3) is a professional-grade cutting mat designed for use with rotary cutters. The self-healing finish of the mat reseals surface cuts, ensuring a continually smooth cutting surface and extending the life of the blade. The double-sided mat has one side with grid lines and one without, making it ideal for easy measuring and accurate cutting of straight lines and precise angles. The solid color side is perfect for general cutting tasks.

The set includes three 23"x35" mats that are 1.5mm thick and four mat clips, allowing you to secure the mats together for continuous cutting and measuring. The large size of the mat makes it ideal for large fabric cutting, sewing, and quilting tasks. It is important to note that the OLFA rotary mat set is designed for use with rotary cutters only and not for use with fixed blade utility knives. To prevent warping, it should be stored flat and out of direct sunlight.

OLFA is the original inventor of the Snap-Off Knife and has maintained a standard of cutting excellence for quality and durability. Pairing the OLFA Rotary Cutting Mat with OLFA Rotary Cutters will provide optimal results. This cutting mat set is an essential tool for anyone involved in fabric cutting, sewing, and quilting tasks. It is perfect for both professional and personal use and is a must-have for anyone who values precision and accuracy in their work.

9. Sue Daley Pink 10" Rotating Cutting Mat For Quilting And Patchwork.

The Sue Daley Designs Pink 10" Rotating Cutting Mat is a must-have tool for any sewing or quilting enthusiast. Its 360-degree smooth rotation feature makes it easy to move the mat instead of the project, allowing for the most precise cuts possible.

One of the key features of this cutting mat is its unique self-healing material that ensures a long-lasting cutting surface. The mat’s surface compound is designed to reseal any surface cuts, ensuring a smooth and even surface that will last for years to come.

The Sue Daley Designs Pink 10" Rotating Cutting Mat is perfect for a variety of crafts, including quilting, English paper piecing, sewing, scrapbooking, painting, and even cake decorating. Its versatility makes it an essential tool for any crafter or hobbyist.

This cutting mat is an ideal size for patchworkers and English paper piecers on the move. It is easy to handle and transport, making it perfect for those who like to craft on the go.

The Sue Daley Designs Pink 10" Rotating Cutting Mat now includes grid lines to aid in precise cutting at 1” and 1/4" spacings. These grid lines make it easy to achieve the most precise cuts possible, ensuring that your projects turn out perfectly every time.

Finally, the Sue Daley Designs Pink 10" Rotating Cutting Mat features a non-slip back for stable and safe cutting. This ensures that the mat stays in place while you work, preventing any accidental slips or cuts.

In conclusion, the Sue Daley Designs Pink 10" Rotating Cutting Mat is an essential tool for any crafter or hobbyist. Its unique self-healing material, 360-degree smooth rotation, and non-slip back make it the perfect tool for achieving precise cuts every time. Whether you’re a quilter, paper piecer, or cake decorator, this cutting mat is sure to become a staple in your crafting arsenal.

10. Dahle Vantage 10674 Self-Healing Cutting Mat, 36"x48", 1/2" Grid, 5 Layers, Ideal For Crafting And Sewing, Black.

The Dahle Vantage 10674 Self-Healing Cutting Mat is a high-quality cutting mat designed for crafts and sewing. It features a 5-layer design that ensures maximum durability and self-healing capabilities, making it perfect for frequent use.

The cutting mat is constructed with 1/8" PVC, which provides a thick and sturdy surface that protects your work area. It also has a screened measurement grid that measures 36"x48", making it easy to trim and size your materials accurately. The grid is marked with inch, metric, and angled trimming guides, making it suitable for a wide range of projects.

One of the key benefits of the Dahle Vantage 10674 Self-Healing Cutting Mat is its self-healing capabilities. The 5-layer design allows the mat to quickly recover from cuts, protecting the surface and preventing blades from becoming dull. This means you can use the mat repeatedly without fear of damaging your work area or your tools.

In addition to its self-healing capabilities, the Dahle Vantage 10674 Self-Healing Cutting Mat also provides excellent surface protection. The thick PVC construction ensures that your work area remains free from scratches, scuffs, and other damage caused by cutting tools.

Overall, the Dahle Vantage 10674 Self-Healing Cutting Mat is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality cutting mat that can withstand frequent use. Its self-healing capabilities, thick PVC construction, and screened measurement grid make it perfect for crafts, sewing, and other projects where accuracy and durability are essential.

Best Cutting Mats For Quilting FAQs

Are self-healing cutting mats better for quilting?

speaking about self-healing cutting mats, they are an excellent choice for quilting. These mats are made of a special material that can heal itself after being cut by a rotary cutter. This means that the surface remains smooth and flat, making it easier for quilters to cut fabrics accurately. Additionally, self-healing mats are durable and can withstand constant use, making them an excellent investment for quilters who want to make precise cuts. They also come in various sizes, making them versatile for different quilting projects. However, it's essential to note that self-healing mats are more expensive than regular cutting mats, but they are worth the investment in the long run due to their durability and longevity. Overall, self-healing cutting mats are an excellent choice for quilters who want to make precise cuts without damaging their cutting surface.

Can I use a rotary cutter on any type of cutting mat for quilting?

Yes, a rotary cutter can be used on any type of cutting mat designed for quilting. However, it is important to choose a cutting mat that is appropriate for the size of the project and the type of fabric being cut. Cutting mats are typically made from self-healing materials that can withstand the sharp blades of rotary cutters, but using a dull or damaged blade can cause the mat to wear down more quickly. Additionally, it is important to follow safety precautions when using a rotary cutter, such as using a ruler or straight edge to guide the blade and keeping fingers away from the cutting area. Overall, a rotary cutter and cutting mat are essential tools for any quilter, but it is important to choose quality materials and use them properly to ensure the best results.

How often should I replace my cutting mat for quilting?

As a general rule, it is recommended to replace your cutting mat for quilting every 1-2 years, or when you start noticing deep cuts or grooves that can affect the accuracy of your cuts. However, the frequency of replacement may vary depending on the frequency and intensity of use, as well as the quality and material of the cutting mat itself.

If you notice that your cuts are not as precise as they used to be, or if you are having trouble with slipping fabric or ruler movement, it may be time to replace your mat. Additionally, if you are working with heavier fabrics, such as denim or wool, or using rotary cutters with multiple blades, your mat may wear out faster and need to be replaced more frequently.

To prolong the life of your cutting mat, it is recommended to store it flat and avoid exposing it to direct sunlight or extreme heat. You can also rotate your mat periodically to even out wear and tear. Ultimately, replacing your cutting mat regularly can help ensure accurate and efficient quilting.

What features should I look for when selecting a cutting mat for quilting?

When selecting a cutting mat for quilting, there are a few key features to look for. Firstly, the size of the mat should be appropriate for the size of the projects you will be working on. A larger mat will provide more surface area for cutting, but may be cumbersome to transport and store. Secondly, the mat should be self-healing, meaning that it will not show cuts and scratches after repeated use. Thirdly, the mat should have clear markings and measurements, including a grid system, to aid in accurate cutting. Fourthly, the mat should be non-slip, to ensure it stays in place while cutting. Lastly, consider the quality of the material and durability of the mat. A high-quality mat may be more expensive, but will last longer and provide more reliable cuts.

What size cutting mat is best for quilting?

As a quilter, the size of your cutting mat is crucial to your success. While there is no one-size-fits-all solution, the best size for a cutting mat is typically determined by the size of your work area and the size of your quilting projects.

For most quilters, a mat that measures at least 24 inches by 36 inches is recommended. This size provides ample space for cutting larger pieces of fabric, and it also allows you to cut multiple layers at once. A larger mat, such as a 36 inch by 48 inch mat, may be necessary if you frequently work on larger projects or have a dedicated quilting space.

It's also important to consider the thickness of your cutting mat. A thicker mat may be more durable and last longer, but it may also be more difficult to cut through. A thinner mat may be easier to cut through, but it may not last as long. Ultimately, the best size and thickness of your cutting mat will depend on your personal preferences and needs.

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