Re-sticking Cricut Mats About This Page:

[ripkensnana]

I got the answer to a question I'd posted on another site, and thought I'd put it here for all of us Cricut users to utilize:

Mats should last a long time! Then, when I do need mats, I buy them with the 40% off coupons, or stock up while they're on sale at Mikes, Joanns or ACMoore.

After every use, scrape the shards off with the scraper. Wipe down with a baby wipe, and after the mat dries, put the clear cover over it. I clip it on with a couple clothes pins, because my mats stand on edge.

If the mat is totally dead, I take it outdoors (because there *will* be overspray) and spray it with quilters adhesive first in one direction, then the other. After it dries, the mat will be tacky.

To extend the useful life, it's important to get a good seal between the paper/cardstock and the mat. A small brayer or firm pressure from your hand on a flat surface will work for that. Paper sticks more easily than textured cardstock - so mats that won't hold the latter may still hold the former.

Also, don't always start cutting at the beginning of the mat. It is possible to use smaller pieces of paper and start the cutting at any point on the mat, which may also help extend it's useful life.

I LOVE my cricut! Happy cutting!

[pntsmom99]

HI,

Thanks for the info...I have four mats that are just getting to the point they are not sticky. I have been using tape to keep the paper on for now, but will try the suggestions you found.

[ripkensnana]

Thanks to scmiller777 for this:

Clean your mat with wet wipes (rub hard) then let it dry. This will sometimes help make it a little sticky again. Also, I have sprayed my mat with a quilt basting spray from Wal-mart. It says it will not gum up needles so I figured it wouldn't hurt the blade. Other people use different types of sprays too. The cricut board has lots of ideas.
Just remember: MASK OFF THE EDGES OF YOUR MAT OR IT CAN DAMAGE YOUR MACHINE.

[Nala]

Thanks for posting these tips, Carol. I seem to blow through mats like crazy. I know it is my fault as I am bad about putting the clear cover back on them. Now I have some ideas on how to extend their life even if I abuse them.

[trixiedixie]

MASK OFF THE EDGES OF YOUR MAT OR IT CAN DAMAGE YOUR MACHINE

Thanks for the tip, I hadnt heard that... What do you usually use to mask?

I have been using Krylons Easy Tack, but only 2x...anyone who has done this for a while...will we still reach a point the mat is unuseable? I have several brand new I bought with my new machine before I started using the spray and I am debating whether to take them back....

[ripkensnana]

Originally Posted by trixie lamb

MASK OFF THE EDGES OF YOUR MAT OR IT CAN DAMAGE YOUR MACHINE

Thanks for the tip, I hadnt heard that... What do you usually use to mask?

My best guess would be to use masking tape. I haven't had to use the spray yet, but that's probably what I'll use when I do.

[Marv]

I have a wishblade and have used blue painters tape on the edges of my mats before I spray them with the Krylon spray.

I have sprayed my mats MANY times and they are hanging in there. I don't think it's quite like a new mat (I love a new mat ) but it works well and saves tons of money. I've never tried wiping with a baby wipe. I think I'll try that because my mats are getting a little gummy after so many resprays.

[cncdisney]

I use the blue painters tape too and then I spray Scrappers' Spray by Creative Imaginations. This has worked beautifully for me. I picked up this spray at my local scrapbook store.

Cheryl

[beetledrivers]

What is scrapbooking SDV and girls week???

[hockeyguysmom]

I have used baby wipes and it does help give the mats new life. I have not tried the adhesive yet, I was afraid I would mess it up somehow.

[Jeepstitch2004]

You can also use regular soap and water, just don't scrub too hard, I have used this on my mats, and it works great! you just want to make sure you let the mats completely dry before trying to use them :-)

[janmck1023]

went to the scrapbook convention in michigan,,(was totally great!! had to hold back many times) and talked to Cricut Dan (kind of hokey right) but they say the same thing , wipe down the mats, and spray, but he had an adhesive that he sells, of course, I didnt buy it , but the cricut site, scrapbook corner has it and of course many deals on cartridges,,,,

[Meemaw Loves WDW]

Lint rollers work great to get off excess paper fiber.

[Cam22]

Great idea! I'm going to try that.

[Meemaw Loves WDW]

Hi Cam-you get around. Saw all your replies on the Where are the Kids? thread. I am Ginger's boss although that is questionable.