Cricut Maker mat can be defined as a mat that grips the loaded material in its place as the cutting machine takes towards cutting, writing, or embellishing’. Right now, the company provides four different kinds of mats available in different sizes that are used separately by the users depending upon their needs.
The common names of the mats include Standard Grip Mat, Fabric Grip Mat, Light Grip Mat, and Strong Grip Mat. Apart from that, it’s very vital to keep these mats in good condition to extend their lifetime. In this blog, we’ve explained the 10 best Maker mats that every user must use before starting the process.
1. Card Mat – 2×2 (2 ct)
With this reusable Cricut Maker mat, you can multiply the card-making as it has the capability to create 4 cards within a single go. It is specially designed to work effortlessly for creating last-minute birthday cards, thank-you notes, and many more.
2. Machine Mat Variety Pack, 12″ x 12″ (3 ct.)
This machine mat variety pack satisfies all the cutting needs and saves a good portion of cutting materials from thinnest to thickest. During the interfacing, the mat grabs the loaded materials on its attached place as it cuts, making it easier to cleanly remove the pieces once the cut is completed.
3. Machine Mat Variety Pack, 12″ x 24″ (3 ct)
Inside this Cricut Maker mat pack, you’ll get three types of mats which are: Light Grip mat, Standard Grip mat & Strong Grip mat. Each of the mats is covered with strong adhesion with the possibility of the longest life. In addition, these mats are preferred by the DIYers while they are creating projects on the Cricut Maker & Explore machine.
4. Machine Mat Variety 2-Pack, 12” x 24” (6 ct)
By choosing the mat available inside this pack, you can satisfy all your crafting needs by saving a big chunk with this machine mat variety pack. The pack includes a vast range of materials, from intense materials to heavier materials. Apart from that, each of the mats inside the pack is reusable, adding the possibility of using it more than one time.
5. Cricut StrongGrip Mat, 12” x 12”, 3 Pack
This Cricut Maker mat is specially developed for handling heavy-weight materials. In addition, this pack is one of the best options for materials that include cardstock, chipboard, mat board, and backed fabric. Each mat in this pack is reusable and locks the material in its exact place while crafting the design.
6. StandardGrip Machine Mat, 12” x 24” (4 ct)
Furthermore, the Cricut Standard Grip mat was principally produced for holding up the medium-weighted materials while designing the project. Other than that, this reusable mat allows the user to swiftly remove the leftover pieces of the material once the cutting process comes to an end. With two mats included, you can load one mat into your Cricut machine while preparing for the next one.
7. StandardGrip Machine Mat, 12” x 12” (2 ct)
Besides, the above-mentioned Cricut Maker mat, it’s the eBay choice for carrying mid-weighted materials during the process. As it is one of the reusable mats, it becomes much easier for all the users to clean it and carefully clean the mat once the cutting comes to an end. This craft plotter mat can be used with the Explore & Maker machine.
8. LightGrip Machine Mat, 12” x 12” (15 ct)
Strictly produced with the aim to carry medium-weighted materials, this Light Grip mat is one of the good alternatives for standard paper, light cardboard, and many more. For the best result, ensure that you’ve to keep a clear firm cover on the mat while keeping it inside the storeroom. The Cricut Access users get a special discount while purchasing this mat.
9. FabricGrip Machine Mat, 12” x 24” (3 ct)
Most DIYers prefer this Cricut Maker mat while working with fabrics including cotton, polyester, denim, and many more. The mat adds increased strength and density along with light adhesive with the intention of creating attractive cuts by using a Rotary blade or a Bonded-Fabric blade. This electric material cutting machine is specially engineered to interface between the material and the smart cutting machine.
If you are planning to create new projects in the future, then it’s compulsory to choose any one of the above-said mats to get the best quality project out of the machine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: How to Make Cricut Maker Mat Sticky Again?
Answer: The primary steps to restick the Cricut Maker mat are as follows:
- Properly clean the mat by removing all kinds of dust, debris, or extra materials.
- Remove the edges to prepare the mat for applying the new adhesive.
- Slowly spread the new adhesive on the mat covering each side.
- Let it dry for 10-15 minutes without placing any finger on it.
Question: How Often Should I Clean The Cricut Mat?
Answer: If you love to create new crafts regularly, then you must clean your Cricut Mat more often as compared to those who use the cutting machine once a week. Intending to increase its lifeline, you are instructed to clean the mat after 2-4 cuts which completely depends upon the material type you’ve chosen while creating the project. Moreover, you must clean the mat once you come across that the mat isn’t sticking properly.
Question: What Are the Different Methods to Keep the Cricut Mats Clean?
Answer: The various types of methods via which you can clean the Cricut Maker mats are:
- Roll over the lint roller on the surface of the mat to pick up the small paper pieces or hair.
- Take off baby wipes and gently wipe them on the craft area to clean up the spills and messes if left.
- Keep the mat on a flat waterproof surface like a kitchen counter. Take lukewarm water and mix an alcohol-free dishwater soap. Gently scrub the cloth across the mat in a circular cover covering all the sides of the mat.