What To Look For When Selecting the Right Cutting Mat
When it comes to happy quilting, quality tools and materials add to the experience. From the fabrics you chose to your cutters, each instrument plays a significant role in creating beautiful and intricate pieces that can last you a lifetime. Necessary to quilters everywhere, a cutting mat is an essential accessory for your kit, but how can you choose the best one for the job? Here’s what to look for when selecting the right cutting mat for your quilting adventures.
Type
No matter the project, a cutting mat is critical to have in your workspace. Not only does it protect your furniture, but it can also prevent your tools from dulling too quickly. Mats categorize as self-sealing or self-healing.
Self-sealing mats, otherwise known as hard-surfaced mats, are typically more challenging to cut through due to their thick, rigid layers. Self-healing mats, described as soft-surfaced, are more flexible and thinner in appearance. Although their slimmer make is vulnerable to cuts and scratches, these marks tend to re-close over time.
Size
Consider your working area and the amount of space you have when looking for mats. While larger mats allow you to handle larger fabrics and enable better accuracy, smaller mats are better for more restricted spaces.
Color
When buying a mat, keep in mind that projects can be hard to differentiate on a cutting mat of the same color. You can see through fabrics to mats in colors such as black or green, which can help reduce confusion.
Measurements
In your decision-making process, note that measurements on a mat come in handy. Keep an eye out for mats with markings and hash lines on all sides, as these are beneficial to the cutting process. Units of measurement differ as your region can dictate your preferred unit.
Additional Features
If you still feel unsure of your best option, think about your lifestyle! If you travel frequently, a foldable mat would be a great choice because it’s easier to transport. There are also rotating options that are great for quilters who enjoy paper piercing.
If you’re serious about your quilting hobby or business, it’s essential to know what to look for when selecting the right cutting mat to avoid hiccups in your endeavors. Whether you’re a quilting enthusiast or just starting your hobby, we can help! We at Lindley General Store provide high-quality quilting tools in Canada to add to your tool kit. To learn more about our products, we invite you to check out our website.
