Cricut Cutting Mat Guide: Which Mat for Which Project?

If you're diving into Cricut crafting, you’ve probably noticed that not all cutting mats are created equal. Cricut mats come in different colors, each designed for specific materials and types of projects. Choosing the right mat can make the difference between a clean cut and a crafting catastrophe!

In this guide, we’ll break down the four main Cricut cutting mats—LightGrip, StandardGrip, StrongGrip, and FabricGrip—and help you choose the right one for your next project.

Light Grip Mat (Blue)

Best for: Lightweight materials
Tackiness: Low adhesive

Use this mat for:

• Printer paper

• Thin cardstock

• Vellum

• Regular vinyl (removable)

• Construction paper

Why you'll love it: The Light Grip mat holds delicate materials securely while still allowing for easy removal without tearing or curling. It’s perfect for paper crafts and layered vinyl projects.

Recommended Brands: HTVRONT Light Grip Cutting Mat for Cricut and Cricut

Standard Grip Mat (Green)

Best for: Medium-weight materials
Tackiness: Medium adhesive

Use this mat for:

• Cardstock (65–110 lb)

• Patterned paper

• Embossed cardstock

• Iron-on vinyl (HTV)

• Adhesive vinyl

• Printable sticker paper

Why you'll love it: This is your all-purpose mat, great for most everyday projects. It’s the most versatile and a staple in any Cricut user's toolkit.

Recommended Brands: HTVRONT Standard Grip Cutting Mat for Cricut and Cricut

Strong Grip Mat (Purple)

Best for: Heavyweight materials
Tackiness: Strong adhesive

Use this mat for:

• Chipboard

• Leather

• Magnet sheets

• Poster board

• Balsa wood (with Cricut Maker + Knife Blade)

• Glitter cardstock

Why you'll love it: The Strong Grip mat is your go-to for heavier-duty projects. Just be careful—it's very sticky. Using a brayer to press your material down and a spatula to lift it up can help.

Recommended Brands: HTVRONT Strong Grip Cutting Mat for Cricut and Cricut

Fabric Grip Mat (Pink)

Best for: Fabric (especially with rotary blade)
Tackiness: High-density adhesive for fabric fibers

Use this mat for:

• Cotton

• Canvas

• Denim

• Felt (for rotary blade use)

• Any bonded fabric

Why you'll love it: Specifically designed for Cricut Maker’s Rotary Blade, the Fabric Grip mat holds fabric in place without backing. It's thick and durable to handle the unique pressure of cutting fabric.

Recommended Brands: HTVRONT Fabric Grip Cutting Mat for Cricut and Cricut

Mat Tips & Tricks

• Keep your mats clean by gently scraping off excess pieces and wiping with baby wipes (alcohol-free) or a lint roller.

• Cover your mat with the clear protective film when not in use to keep dust and lint away.

• Rotate and alternate mats to extend their lifespan and ensure even wear.

• Replace when needed. If your material stops sticking or starts sliding, it’s time for a new mat—or try cleaning first!

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right Cricut mat helps ensure precise cuts, clean removals, and less material waste. Whether you're crafting cards, making iron-on shirts, or cutting custom wood signs, using the proper mat is step one for Cricut success.

Tip: Keep a labeled storage system for your mats to easily grab the right one. Bonus points if you hang them up to save space!

I’ve linked all of these tools mentioned in this post in Our Favorite Crafting Tools & Must-Have Supplies — check it out!