A6 Cutting Mat

Self-healing cutting mat in A6 format

A cutting mat is basic equipment for a work surface. It does two jobs at once: it protects the bench from being cut through and it protects the blade from being ruined on a hard surface. The material is self-healing, that is softened so that the trace of a cut partly closes back up and the surface stays flat for a long time. The A6 format matches the size of a postcard, roughly 105 x 148 mm. It is the smallest of the usual formats, so it suits a spot to set things down at hand, small work with pieces from the sprue, or a modeling bag for travel.

Use

• Lay the mat on a flat board, as the cut will slip on an uneven base.
• Cut square to the surface, since an angled stroke runs deeper into the mat.
• Do not use it as a base for cutting with a hot knife or for soldering, as heat damages the material.
• Wipe it with a damp cloth after work, since remains of glue and paint dry into the surface.
• Store it flat; a mat leant against a wall will warp in time.

Who it is for

It suits anyone who cuts on a bench. The small format is practical as an extra surface beside a large mat or as the only mat for work with small parts, which needs a few square centimeters. It fits in a drawer and in a bag, so it also suits places where the bench has to be cleared away again after work.

Do not expose the mat to heat or direct sunlight. Keep it out of reach of children together with the knife you use it with.