Cricut Mat Guide: Which Mat Should You Use

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This Cricut mat guide simplifies the different cutting mats for the Cricut. Learn which Cricut mat you should use for different materials.

You might also like this post on the differences between a Silhouette Cameo and a Cricut Maker.

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I love the Cricut, but the mats are a little confusing. No project can be started until I google which mat to use. So I decided to make myself a cheat sheet to print and place with my Cricut Maker.

Be sure to download the Cricut Mat cheat sheet at the bottom of this post!

Cricut Mat Guide

All Cricut mats are available in both 12″ and 24″ lengths. They also come in a smaller size for the Cricut Joy.

You can buy the mats individually or in mat sets. It’s cheaper to buy them in sets!

Each mat has a different level of adhesive, making it perfect for certain materials. If you’ve ever ruined a paper project with a mat that is too sticky, you will appreciate this!

Standard Grip Mat

The standard grip mat is green.

This is the mat that will be used most often for medium-weight materials such as:

• Heavy cardstock
• Vinyl
• Iron-on vinyl
• Patterned paper
• Embossed cardstock
• Sticker Paper

Light Grip Mat

The light grip mat is light blue.

This mat has a lighter adhesive and is perfect for lighter materials such as:

• Standard paper
• Light cardstock
• Vellum
• Construction paper
• Light vinyl

Heavy Grip Mat

The heavy grip mat is purple.

This mat has a heavier adhesive and is used for heavier materials such as:

• Thick cardstock
• Chipboard
• Backed fabric (the fabric used with a stiffener)
• Posterboard
• Leather (read tips for working with leather here)
• Faux leather
• Glitter cardstock
• Magnetic sheet

Fabric Grip Mat

The fabric grip mat is pink.

This mat is used for softer materials such as:

• Fabric
• Crepe paper
• Felt

Cricut Mat Cheatsheet Printable

All downloads are for personal use only. Please do not redistribute or sell files.

Click to download a Cricut mat cheatsheet.

You might also like:

• DIY Leather Keychain
• How to Use a Cricut Easy Press
• Vinyl Types Explained
• Cricut Storage Cart
• Easy DIY Koozies

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