10 Best Cutting Surface, Expert Picks

A cutting mat is typically made of a durable, flexible material designed to withstand repeated cutting with a craft knife or rotary cutter without being damaged. Common materials used for cutting mats include:

• PVC (Polyvinyl chloride): PVC cutting mats are popular due to their durability, flexibility, and affordability. They provide a self-healing surface that can withstand repeated cuts without leaving visible marks.

• Polyethylene: Polyethylene cutting mats offer similar characteristics to PVC mats, with good durability and self-healing properties. They are often slightly more expensive than PVC mats but offer excellent longevity.

• Rubber: Rubber cutting mats are less common but still used in some applications. They provide a softer surface that grips the work surface well and offers self-healing properties.

How do you cut matboard for framing?

To cut matboard for framing, follow these general steps:

1. Measure and Mark: Measure the dimensions of the frame opening and mark the dimensions on the back of the matboard using a pencil and ruler or straightedge.

2. Score the Matboard: Place the marked matboard on a cutting surface or cutting mat. Use a straightedge or T-square to guide a utility knife or mat cutter along the marked lines, scoring the surface of the matboard without cutting all the way through.

3. Cut the Matboard: Once the matboard is scored, carefully snap or bend it along the scored line to break it cleanly. Alternatively, use a straightedge and a utility knife or mat cutter to make a deeper cut along the scored line, ensuring a clean and precise cut.

4. Check the Fit: Place the cut matboard into the frame opening to ensure it fits properly. Make any necessary adjustments if the fit is too tight or too loose.

What can I use as a cutting mat?

If you don't have a dedicated cutting mat, you can use various household items as alternatives:

• Cardboard: Thick cardboard or corrugated cardboard can provide a temporary cutting surface for light-duty cutting tasks. Replace it as needed when it becomes too damaged.

• Old Cutting Boards: If you have old cutting boards that are no longer suitable for food preparation, you can repurpose them as cutting mats for crafts and DIY projects.

• Self-Healing Mats: Some self-healing mats are designed to be reversible, with a cutting surface on one side and a non-slip surface on the other. These mats are suitable for cutting and can protect your work surface from damage.

How does a self-healing mat work?

Self-healing mats are made of a special material, typically PVC or polyethylene, that has the ability to "heal" or reform after being cut. When a blade cuts into the surface of the mat, the material around the cut reseals and closes up, leaving behind minimal visible marks. This self-healing property allows the mat to withstand repeated cutting without showing signs of wear or damage, making it ideal for crafts, sewing, and other cutting-intensive activities.

Do cutting mats heal?

Yes, cutting mats with self-healing properties can "heal" or reform after being cut. When a blade cuts into the surface of the mat, the material around the cut reseals and closes up, leaving behind minimal visible marks. This self-healing property allows the mat to withstand repeated cutting without showing signs of wear or damage, prolonging its lifespan and usability.

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