IMPERFECT QUILTER - ROTARY MATS

While at RWYS retreat, Nadine Arney, shared a tip on how to revitalize your rotary mat. Since these mats are expensive....anything that can make them last a little longer is very helpful. Thus, here is how it is done:

To clean your OLFA mat, use a generous amount of ROOM temperature water and a few drop of mild detergent. Soaking it in the tub for about 10 - 15 minutes will help to re-hydrate it. Use a soft, mild bristle brush such as a toothbrush or mushroom brush (did you know there was such a thing???) and create a lather and gently clean your mat. Rinse it with room temperature water and wipe it dry with a cotton towel. Please note that warm or hot water, and direct sunlight might damage the mat. Dry it and store it FLAT. To keep fibers from getting caught in surface, use a lint roller after each cutting session.

ALSO....CHECK OUT DARLENE SMITH'S LINK FOR RETREAT PICTURES:

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150340388564434.394631.591399433&l=e9bc1f5169&type=1

Imperfect Quilter

Good morning,

I told you that I would start putting up some quilting tips and/or answering some questions about various topics related to quilting. So here goes the first of what will, hopefully, become a steady stream. In order to do this, I need you to help...so post your comments, questions, etc. Thank You.

My thought this morning deals with the ROTARY MATS!!!

When was the last time you purchased a new mat? Does your mat collect fuzz in the cracks? When you run your hand over the mat, is it smooth, or do you feel the cuts. While these mats are very durable, they do wear out and will definitely impede your ability to get accurate cuts. For each groove you feel, you can bet you might be off as much as 1/64 of an inch. While that doesn't sound like a lot....multiply that by 64 seams and you are off by 1". So, bite the bullet...purchase a new mat .... of course, on sale....and it won't be nearly as painful.

Are some mats better than others....it is personal choice, but I can tell you one that is really a lousy mat and it is those white ones with blue lines sold at the Craft Fairs. They are wonderful in that they offer a variety of cool sizes......but as to their durability, they are lousy. They are not made for serious cuts. Personal favorites....Olfa and Fiskars mats. The Gingher mat is nifty in that it is truly 2 sided. Wear it out on one side and simply turn it over. They are, however, more expensive, but you get twice the cutting from them.

By the way, don't throw your old mat away...turn it over and use it to cut curve pieces or protect your table tops and let the kids paint, putter and paste to their hearts content.

Until next time,

Your Imperfect Quilter

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