Which Cricut machine mat should you use?

1 July 2022

Decisions, decisions, decisions! Are you wondering, “Which mat should I use for my Cricut projects?” Or perhaps pondering, “Which Cricut machine mat will work with this material?”

We understand it can be a little bit overwhelming at first, so here’s a little guidance for selecting the best mat for your Cricut MakerTM or Cricut ExploreTM machine projects. If you have an older machine, see which mats are compatible with your machine.

The different cutting mats

There are 4 different Cricut machine mats:

Each of these mats is used to cut different types of materials (from popular lightweight materials like copy paper and washi tape sheets to heavyweight materials like faux leather and corrugated cardboard). The material you are cutting with your machine can help determine which mat to use.

LightGrip Machine Mat

The blue LightGrip Machine Mat has just the right level of grip to hold your material firmly in place during cutting, yet it allows for easy removal of the lighter weight material when you are finished cutting. The LightGrip Machine Mat is perfect for lightweight materials, including:

  • Printer paper
  • Vellum
  • Light cardstock paper
  • Thin scrapbook paper
  • Washi sheets
  • Wrapping paper
  • Construction paper

Classroom bookmark making Cricut

Christmas Crackers are just one example of projects that the LightGrip Machine Mat can make using thin scrapbook paper. Try making this project here.


lightgrip mat project

StandardGrip Machine Mat

The green StandardGrip Machine Mat may be the most widely used mat. It is perfect for a wide range of medium-weight materials, including:

·        Cardstock

·        Textured paper

·        Embossed cardstock

·        Iron-on (commonly known as HTV)

·        Vinyl

·        Pattern paper

·        Infusible InkTM transfer sheets

Try making a “Love You More” sign or blanket throw with iron-on using the StandardGrip Machine Mat.


standard grip cutting mar project

StrongGrip Machine Mat

The purple StrongGrip Machine Mat offers a strong hold surface suitable and engineered for heavyweight materials. This mat is perfect for heavyweight materials, including:

·        Thick cardstock

·        Glitter cardstock

·        Magnet material

·        Chipboard

·        Poster board

·        Mat board

·        Fabric with stiffener

·        Corrugated cardboard

·        (Faux) leather and suede

·        Wood

Use the StrongGrip Machine Mat to create easy photo magnets with printable magnet sheets.


Stronggrip cutting mat project

If you are an avid maker that likes to experiment with a multitude of materials, the StrongGrip mat complements the knife blade for Cricut Maker. It’s a must-have combination for cutting through thick materials such as wood, mat board, chipboard, and craft foam. 

Create this personalised veneer gift tag in Design Space here.


Wood veneer handmade gift tag idea Cricut

FabricGrip Machine Mat

The FabricGrip Machine Mat has a light adhesive machine mat is made for a variety of fabrics. If you are a sewer, this is a must-have addition for your Cricut collection. It is specifically designed to secure fabrics for cutting, with easy release, and works as a complement to Rotary Blade or Bonded-Fabric Blade projects. The mat is engineered with a stronger, denser material that withstands added pressure of those blades.

This mat is perfect for all fabrics, including:

·        Bonded fabrics for Cricut Explore machines

·        Unbacked fabrics for Cricut Maker


Sewing fabric cutting mat

Cricut Machine Mat Tips:

Don’t neglect the clear film cover that comes with your mat! Return the clear film cover onto the mat when storing to keep it free from lint and dust.

Utilise tools for removing your cuts from the mat: the spatula allows you to carefully remove your cut from the mat, whereas the scraper tool will help remove all the excess pieces quickly.

Consider purchasing mats in various sizes. Cricut machine mats for Cricut Maker and Cricut Explore machines typically come in two different sizes: 12″ x 12″ and 12″ x 24″.

Only use recommended materials with each corresponding mat for longer life and better performance.

·        LightGrip or blue mat for lightweight materials

·        StandardGrip or green mat for medium-weight materials

·        StrongGrip or purple mat for heavyweight materials

·        FabricGrip or pink mat for fabrics

Use a combination of the different mats to help you create mixed-media projects such as this chipboard cactus of coasters.


Chipboard Cactus Coasters Cricut Idea

Need more beginner guidance?

Head to our beginner hub for everything you need to get started.

Cricut Learn is also a great place to find information, video tutorials, and free workshops to sign up to too.