6/25/2023 0 Comments Dritz 24x36 gridded cutting matRemove the fabric and inspect the mat’s surface. The first thing to do is cut a small piece of fabric on top of the mat. Luckily, there are ways to test the mat to see if it self-heals. But let’s say you already have a mat at home and aren’t sure if it’s self-healing or not. ![]() How do you know if a cutting mat is self-healing?Ĭutting mats that self-heal are usually clearly labeled as such if you’re buying a new one. Cleaning your mat and storing it properly also extends its life. You can extend the life of your mats by having more than one and rotating through them during projects. If you use your mat repeatedly or make the same cut in the same spot on the mat over and over, eventually, a mark will form. Note that self-healing mats don’t last forever. The water separates to make space for the blade, then moves back once the blade is gone. If you push a blade into a bowl full of water, then remove it again, no evidence of the blade remains. You can compare the make-up of a self-healing mat to that of water. ![]() It’s semi-solid, so when you push it into the mat, the particles separate, then join together again. The composition of a self-cutting mat is key. The mat keeps your blade from reaching your work table, preserving the surface and protecting it from scratches and nicks. How Does a Self-Healing Cutting Mat Work?Ī cutting mat forms a protective barrier between your fabric and the surface you’re cutting on. You’ll end up with perfect quilting shapes that are ready to be sewn into your quilt top. Place your fabric on the mat and use a rotary cutter and ruler to make clean cuts. A self-healing cutting mat makes this task quick and easy. If you’re making a quilt, you’ll need to cut out dozens-if not hundreds-of perfect squares, triangles, or other shapes. Cut not only fabric but also leather, paper, and other materials ![]() Cut through several layers of fabric at once Cut around paper patterns for sewing projects Self-healing cutting mats can be used for the following: Let’s explore some of the many uses for a self-healing cutting mat. This flexibility is what allows the mat to “heal” itself and maintain a smooth surface. These particles are designed to be slightly soft and flexible, so they can quickly spring back into place when cut. Instead, it passes through a layer of extremely small particles. When you cut into a self-healing cutting mat, the blade doesn’t actually touch any solid surface. It’s a type of plastic that’s used in all sorts of products, from pipes and tubing to fabrics and credit cards. They typically consist of layers of plastic, such as PVC. Without getting too technical, I can say that the key is in the materials used to make the mat. Self-healing cutting mats aren’t made from a magic substance. What is a self-healing cutting mat made of? The mats also provide a non-stick, grippy surface, making them ideal for use with slippery fabrics, such as satin or silk. ![]() There are also bias lines and measurements marked on them, so you can use the mat as a ruler before cutting. They also have grid lines on them, which makes it easy to cut fabric in straight lines and position your fabric accurately before you start cutting. Over time, the scratches on the mat became more noticeable, and the delicate fabric began to catch on them. It was a Dritz brand mat, but it wasn’t self-healing. On a hard plastic or cardboard mat, those cuts are permanent and eventually cause the mat to become unusable.įor years, I used a regular cutting mat that was the proper size for my table. Depending on the mat’s material, the cut can be permanent or it can close back up again, leaving a smooth surface. When you use a cutting mat, the pressure of the blade makes an indentation or cuts into the mat’s surface. The self-healing feature means that the mat will last for years, as the surface won’t get damaged from repeated use. Think of them as like cutting boards, but for sewing, not cooking. The mat protects your table or counter from dings and cuts, preserving your work surface. What Is a Self-Healing Cutting Mat?Ī self-healing cutting mat provides a smooth surface on which to cut fabric, leather, paper, and other materials with a rotary cutter. I only recommend products I believe in and use myself. This means I will receive a commission if you order a product through one of my links. Note: Some of the links on this page are affiliate links.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |