I read a cutting mat tip the other day: apparently if you rub your mat with a wad of nylon netting (like an old shower scrubbie), it'll help restore your mat. Not sure if it really works, but if you're going to replace yours anyway, maybe give it a go just in the name of research.

Kelly (Nebraska)

I've used Olfa, Fiskars and a really large translucent white mat (I don't see this mat labeled with a name, and I've had it for years). They have all been good and served me well.

Use the scrubbie to take out any fluff. You can turn your current mat either over to use the back side, or 90 degrees, so you're cutting in a different direction to get extra use from it.

I will say, there's nothing better than a new mat - but don't get rid of the old one. Use the older one for cutting batting (or paper if you scrapbook) - anything other than fabric.

Good luck with your choice.

I have had Olfa and Fiskars and liked both of them. The scrubbie really helps with the fuzz (especially if you cut a lot of fleece). One side of my old Fiskars was really in pieces so I used the good end and made myself a small turntable from a cheap lazy susan for trimming blocks on.

beverly

Mine is a Fiskars. Within the past year I noticed the mat and ruler markings were different, like the mat had shrunk a bit. I wrote the company and they sent me a brand new mat AND didn't ask for the old one back.

I sent pictures of the measurement discrepancy to them as proof.

Check yours, you may get a free new mat.

I am beginning to think that my mat is just old and has been used too much. I will probably keep it as a back up, but I am not able to cut on it very well anymore. I may try your suggestion, Kelly, in the name of science. I had never heard of that!

Kelly I have a big Olfa mat for years after I cut a quilt out I rub one of those sponges with kinda netting on it you can buy them in the auto dept. in stores they are for wiping bugs off windshields of cars.
Gillian.

And as Mary said, don't forget the back. It is the same surface, just no lines. It was a real 'duh' moment for me when I read that for the first time.

Faye