cricut mats

[craftycreationz]

I was wondering if there was a way to make the mats last longer, I just bought a new package last week, and i am already on my 2nd mat, I haven't cut very much, but it's already losing it's tackiness..(is that even a word? lol)
any tips are appreciated! TIA!

[lindamac]

Go to a craft store like Michaels and buy some repositionable glue, either spray on or paint on. I use Royalcoat repostioable paper adhesive. It is very sticky so brush it on lightly with a foam brush. If you use the spray on be sure to mask the area that goes thru the rollers on your Cricut to keep the glue off of them. I haven't purchased a new mat in ages. Also you can make your own if you go someplace like the 99cent only store and buy flexible cutting mats. Trace your inches grid on the back of it in permanent marker and put the glue on the front side. Much much cheaper than buying brand name mats. When you reglue your mat, be sure to let it dry over night before using.

[craftycreationz]

Thanks! i will try that! I have some sulky temporary spray adhesive, will that work?

By the way, thanks for responding so quickly!! I really appreciate it!

[lovebeingamom]

I use the Zig glue pen, this was not an original idea, people have posted it lots here, it works great for me. For those that do not want to mess with any type of glue, it is cheaper to buy the 12X12 mats and cut them in half, then tape the sticky edge so it doesn't mess up your rollers. (again, not an original idea)

[craftycreationz]

How much do the 12x12 mats cost? how many come in a package?

[TheresaTT]

anyone know how to clean the rollers since it didn't occur to me not to spray the whole thing. ( duh) i wondered how my rollers got so dirty.

[lindamac]

You can clean the rollers with a q-tip and alcohol. Clean as much as you can and gently turn them to another spot.

[lindamac]

The 6x12 inch mat is actually almost 7 inches wide. The cutting area is 6 inches wide so if you cut a 12x12 mat in half, you won't have anything left on the edges to fit under the rollers to push it thru. I tried that myself. Ended up having to glue an extra inch of another mat to the 6x12 mat to make it a 7 x12 " mat. Now it works fine. The things we do to save money! Walmart has the best prices on mats as well as the tool kit and spatula. Joann"s will let you use your coupon on Cricut accessories like the tool kit but Micheal's coupons say no to anything Cricut.

[kaesmom]

I use painters tape to hold the paper in place. It seems to work well.

[talanhart]

I don't know if I read it here or at the Cricut board, but I took an Alcohol Free Baby Wipe and cleaned my mat. The wipe took off all the paper residue and my mat is sticky again. I don't know how many times I will be able to do this, but it's pretty easy.