A super sticky mat is essential for accurate and precise cuts. However, after prolonged use, the adhesive on mats becomes less sticky, causing problems with cutting objects. Reasons can be dust, debris, or any other unwanted particles. The good thing is that you don’t need to throw that old mats every time. Learn how to make Cricut Mat sticky again through this easy guide. Here, we’ll discuss cleaning, resticking, and more.
Cleaning Different Types of Cricut Cutting Mats Properly
In the Cricut world, there are 4 types of cutting mats available. Each mat comes with a different adhesive level. These mats tend to hold materials as they enter into the cutting machine. Because of adhesive, the mats wear out after 40 to 50 uses while losing their stickiness. You can clean the mats and protect them for further use to combat this situation.
Supplies and Tools You’ll Require
- Cricut scraper tool for leftovers of large pieces.
- Lint roller to remove small pieces of leftovers.
- Baby wipes to clean spills.
- Dish soap and brush.
- Awesome spray.
Method 1: Light-Duty Cleaning Method
Light-Duty Cleaning Methods can be applied after the completion of every project. This process is quite effective in cleaning and maintaining the mat.
Using Scraper Tool
Are large pieces of leftovers present on your Cricut mat? Use the plastic Cricut scraper tool immediately. Proceed by pulling the scraper’s tool edge over the surface of your mat. Excess material or small pieces, such as hair and fuzz, can be removed effortlessly through scrapper tools.
Using Lint Roller
You may find leftover material or small pieces sticking to your mat. Roll the Lint roller over the mat’s surface in such a case. This process will remove small pieces of paper, glitters, or others.
Using Baby Wipes
Baby Wipes are cheap and effective in cleaning mats. Keeping wipes in the craft area can be a good decision. Use them to clean up any messes around.
No matter which method you select, always remember to air dry your mat completely. Place it on a drying rack, or you can hang it in a vertical direction.
Method 2: Medium-Duty Cleaning Method
If the above milder methods don’t work, wash the mat using soap and water. Opt for the medium-Duty Cleaning process; it is effortless and time-saving.
Step 1: Bring a scraper tool to remove unwanted material from the mat.
Step 3: At last, allow the mat to air dry thoroughly.
Method 3: Heavy-Duty Cleaning Method
Have you found your mat is highly greasy? Go for more potent cleaning methods - use Awesome Spray.
Step 2: Allow the Cricut mat to sit for around 5 to 10 minutes.
Step 3: Now, scrape the residue off the surface. Do it gently.
- Step 4: In the final step, use warm water to rinse your mat.
Cleaning Pink Cricut Fabric Mat in an Easy Way
Pink Cricut Fabric Mat has been designed to cut fabric. It comes with a unique adhesive different from the type of adhesives on other mats. Since this mat is delicate, you first need to be aware of essential tips involved in the cleaning process. During cleaning, don’t use harsh cleaning sprays. Instead, remove leftover large pieces with the help of a tweezer tool.
Easy Steps on How to Make Cricut Mat Sticky Again
Once you finish cleaning, “How to make Cricut mat sticky again” comes. Find below the basic steps involved in the entire resticking process.
- Clean your Cricut mat first by removing dirt and leftover material. Use the scrapper tool for this purpose. And later, use baby wipes, soap, and water to clean that mat.
- When cleaning is done, prepare the mat to apply the new adhesive. For this, use masking or other types of tape to protect the edges.
- In the next step, apply the new adhesive you have. Use temporary repositionable adhesive material, i.e., Spray n Bond Basting Adhesive.
- Finally, allow the adhesive on the mat to dry for approximately 10.15 minutes.
Tips to Extend the Life of Cutting Mats
Over time, mats tend to get damaged. But, you can extend their life by keeping them clean. Some of the easiest ways to clean them are mentioned below:
- The first way to extend the mat’s life is to clean it regularly. Utilize the Cricut scrapper tool to remove scraps or fuzzies.
- You can use an old credit card or a plastic gift card in the absence of a scrapper tool,
- Cover your mats with the protector sheet between your projects to keep them clean.
Proper mat selection for suitable material can extend your mat’s life. If there are delicate papers, use the LightGrip mat; for fabric, go for the FabricGrip mat, and use the StrongGrip mat for heavy-duty materials.
Conclusion
All the methods discussed above are easy to implement. One important thing to note in the process of “how to make Cricut mat sticky again” is resticking with caution. Excessive adhesive can block the machine, voiding its warranty. Thus, paying extra attention to the process is recommended while adding glue.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Baby Wipes Work Well for All Types of Cutting Mats?
Yes, baby wipes are easy to use and affordable to clean mats. Not only it helps in keeping the mats in good shape, but it also extends their life. They are gentle and, thus, prevent the mat from getting any damage.
Can I Restick Cricut Mats Using Spray?
Spray n Bond Boasting Adhesive is an excellent option to restick the Cricut mat. This temporary adhesive material does its job perfectly. All you need is to follow the instruction and directions of use provided on the back.
How Often is Cricut Mats Cleaning Required?
Usually, crafters need to clean their mats after every 2 to 4 cuts. Sometimes they need to double up on their cleanings if you use your machine often and work with greasy materials like vinyl, fabric, and paper.
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