Rotary cutting boards and rotary blades

[meliswan]

I will be the exception to the rule. I can't stand the self healing mats. I have a small Olfa and can't hardly use it. For me it is a texture issue, when the blade sinks into it i get the heebe geebes so I use the harder plastic ones. Mine is made by June Taylor and is about 10 yrs old.

[Iris Girl]

I have an olfa mat which is 25 years old . I bought a new one because the numbers are wearing off the old one, but can't bring myself to use it till the old one is totally no good. Go figure. I always buy olfa its what I started with and does me good. The key is self healing. I know some I looked at at joanns were not self healing and I would not touch them.

[andylou]

I have a white mat with red markings. It is a "Salem". I bought it at the International Quilt Festival in Houston many years ago. I absolutely love it.

[TamiLee]

I'm with Melissa - I use the June Tailor, harder mat. I hate the Olfa mats, for numerous reasons; smell, colors, and number placement. Absolutely love the bright colors of the June Tailor with white markings, and the number placement on the outside. I have always heard it said that her [harder] mat gave more life to the cutter blades; I do know my blades seem to last a VERY long time... and I cut A LOT!!!

[lmanna]

Martelli is having another 50% sale - many of us LOVE their products. Details posted here: Martelli - 50% off almost everything sale

[cathym]

I like the Olfa green mats and am not sure how long I've used my large one, but several years. I also own a Quilt mate, but seldom use it and would not recommend it. It's hard and the blade tends to slip on it, yielding uneven cuts. I bought it for the handle, but it was a waste of money.

Here is a guide to cleaning the mats. I haven't needed to use the plastic scrubber or eraser, but it might be worth a try. Mine cleans easily with a damp cloth so far..

http://www.patchworkposse.com/2013/1...y-cutting-mat/