If you are not familiar with cutting mats and self-healing cutting mats, let us explain. Put simply, cutting mats are used to protect the surface you are working on, whether you're sewing and quilting or crafting.
Mats come in various sizes, but larger ones can be tricky to store. If stored improperly, mats can easily bend and warp, rendering them unusable. This has happened to me, and it's frustrating, to put it mildly, when you pay $50 plus for a mat.
To avoid the untimely demise of your mat, cutting mats should be stored on a flat surface.
Ok, so you are reading this article before learning the proper way to store your mat...now what? Can a warped mat be fixed? Quick answer, yes.
But first, if you have large stains or unhealed cuts, you should clean them before laying your mat flat again. That way, you're starting fresh and know your mat will be clean and ready to use the next time you need it.
Next, to unwarp and repair your mat, you can try the following methods:
The first method is easy to do and should produce promising results depending on the severity of the bend. Simply lay your mat on a flat surface, such as the floor or a desk, and let it naturally fall to a flat shape. This works best for repairing small bumps that will naturally smooth out as the mat flattens.
This method is like the first method, with a little extra added strength and force are applied. Lay your mat out on a flat surface, then cover the entire mat with heavy books or anything else that can be equally spread across the mat's surface. Ensure no small pockets or areas are left uncovered or still bent and leave it to flatten overnight. If not flat by morning, give it a few more hours under weight to fully flatten out.
Method three requires an iron. Ironing a cutting mat may sound outrageous, but it works. Place your mat on an ironing board or iron-proof surface. Turn your iron's heat to medium. Place a damp cloth or towel over the mat and use the iron to press the cutting mat. The damp towel will create stream and inject heat into the mat, which will allow the shape to move and reform. Iron for 10-15 minutes, then leave the cutting mat on a flat surface. Place heavy objects on top and leave it overnight.
The last method is to wash your mat and flatten it. Start by cleaning all the fibers and dust from your mat using a cloth and tape. Next, add a small amount of lukewarm water, vinegar, and bath soap to a large tub or bathtub and soak the mat. Remove and place mat on a towel to dry, making sure the towel is placed on a flat surface such as a table or the floor, so the mat dries flat. When most of the water has naturally dried, place heavy books on top to further flatten the mat. Leave overnight, and you'll be good to go the next day!
I hope you found this guide on fixing a warped cutting mat helpful and hope you've managed to fix your own. If you have any helpful tips and tricks, I would love to know more!
