Plotter Cutting Mat Maintenance: How to Clean, Wash and Apply Repositionable Glue

Cutting mats for plotters such as those from Cameo or Silhouette are an essential part of the equipment, as they ensure that the material  

stays in place during the cutting process. However, with frequent use, these mats can lose their adhesiveness  and accumulate residue, 

affecting cut quality. Maintaining and restoring the adhesiveness of these mats is essential to ensure their optimal performance. Below, 

we explain how to clean, wash, and apply repositionable glue to your cutting mat, as well as the differences between the types of glue available.

Cleaning and Washing Cutting Mats

Necessary materials:

Warm water

Mild soap (can be dish soap)

Soft brush or sponge

Paper towels or a clean cloth

Steps to clean the cutting mat: 

Removing Debris: Carefully use a plastic putty knife or scraper to remove any large pieces of material that may be stuck to the mat. 

Wash the mat: Fill a sink or large bowl with warm water and add a few drops of mild soap. Place the mat in the water and gently scrub with a soft brush or sponge to remove sticky residue and dust.

Rinse: Be sure to rinse the mat thoroughly with clean water to remove all the soap.

Dry: Dry the mat with paper towels or a clean cloth and allow it to air dry completely before using it again. 

Do not use direct heat such as 

hair dryers, as this may damage the mat's original adhesive.

Repositionable Glue Application

After cleaning, it may be necessary to restore the mat's adhesiveness by applying repositionable glue. There 

are several types of repositionable 

glue available on the market: liquid, paste and aerosol. Here we explain how to apply each one and its 

 advantages and disadvantages.

 

1. Liquid Repositionable Glue

How to apply it:

Make sure the mat is completely dry.

Use a brush or sponge to apply a thin, even layer of liquid repositionable glue to the surface of the mat.

Let the glue air dry. Most liquid glues need about 24 hours to dry completely.

Advantages: 

Allows controlled and precise application.

It is usually cheaper.

 Disadvantages:

 It may take longer to dry.

Requires skill to apply an even coat without leaving lumps.

2. Repositionable Paste Glue

How to apply it:

Apply the paste to the surface of the mat with a spatula or plastic card.

Spread the paste evenly over the entire mat.

Let it dry for the time indicated by the manufacturer.

Advantages: 

Provides a thick, uniform layer.

It can be more durable than liquid glue.

Disadvantages:

It may be harder to find compared to other types.

The application may be more complicated and require more effort.

 

3. Repositionable Aerosol Glue

How to apply it: 

Make sure the mat is completely dry and place it on a protected surface (such as newspaper or a large box) 

to prevent the spray

 from staining other areas.

Spray the repositionable spray glue onto the mat from a distance of about 20-30cm to ensure an even layer.

Let dry according to the manufacturer's instructions, usually a few minutes

 

Advantages:

 

Easy and quick to apply.

Covers large areas evenly and efficiently.

Disadvantages:

It can be more expensive than liquid and paste glues.

Requires working in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling vapors.

 

Conclusion

 

Proper maintenance of your cutting mat is crucial to prolong its life and ensure accurate cuts. Regular  

cleaning and restoring its adhesiveness 

through the use of repositionable glues will allow you to get the best results from your cutting plotter.  

Consider the advantages and disadvantages

 of each type of repositionable glue to choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences.