FAQ

Rotary Mats

OLFA’s self-healing mats are made from several layers. They are designed so that when you make a cut, the top layer goes back together invisibly, maintaining the integrity of the mat and the cutting lines. OLFA® mats are designed to be used with OLFA® cutters.

The smell will dissipate over time, however, if you want to speed it up, you can gently wash the mat with a mild household cleaner, such as dishwashing detergent.

- Don't expose your mat to extreme temperatures. Due to its innovative triple-layer heat welding process, preventing it from extreme heat and bitter cold helps extend its life.

- Do not leave your mat in the car where it can be subject to extreme temperatures.

- Store your mat flat and do not attempt to roll it. Our mats do well on tabletop surfaces or under sturdy cabinets, stored with other supplies.

- Do not iron on your rotary mat.

Once a mat is warped, there is no way to flatten it. You can repurpose it by cutting it down into smaller sections. One way to prevent this is to store your mat flat when it’s not being used, such as under a bed or counter. If you have a dedicated cutting area, you can leave it on your cutting table. Be sure not to iron or place heated items on it as they will cause the mat to warp. Also, don’t leave it in a hot or cold car.

OLFA® mats are self-healing and can catch fibers from thicker fabrics when you cut them repeatedly. First try using a damp cloth to rub over the fibers to dislodge them. Another method is to rub an art gum eraser, available in the art section, over the fibers to remove them. One way to avoid this problem is to not cut continuously in the same place on your mat. If you are cutting cotton batting, turn the mat over and use the unlined side, so you can keep the front’s lines sharp. See more here.

OLFA®’s mats are designed to last for years. However, if you cut repeatedly in the same spot or are a heavy user, you may need to replace your mat sooner. If it becomes gouged from cutting in the same area or you no longer can see the lines accurately, it’s time for a new mat.

Rotary Blades

The length of time a blade will last depends on various factors – the type of material that is being cut, how the cutter is used, if an OLFA® mat is used. We don’t suggest that you change blades after a specific amount of cutting time, but it should be changed when you begin to notice it isn’t cutting effectively. If you noticed that it’s skipping threads or larger sections of fabric or paper, or if you’re having to press hard to cut, then it’s time to change blades. To keep the blade sharp, remove pins or other objects from your mat before you cut.

We don’t recommend sharpening OLFA® blades. For longer blade life, try an OLFA® Endurance™ blade.

Utility Knives

Rotary Cutters

Unassemble the blade as if you were going to change it. If you’ve purchased a multi-pack of blades, make sure that two blades aren’t stuck together. Use a cloth to wipe off the handle and blade, removing any dirt and dust. Reassemble the cutter and check that the blade rotates properly.

General

The rustproofing oil coated on OLFA® brand blades is not fit for human consumption, therefore do not use the blades to cut food.

Because quality counts, OLFA designs, develops and manufactures its products in Japan.

The body color of OLFA® products was selected by Yoshio Okada, the founder of OLFA Corporation. He decided on a soft yellow color, similar to egg yolks, because in Japan it was associated with ‘safety’ and ‘familiar’ images. This shade of yellow is the official corporate color of OLFA Corporation.