The Different Types of Cricut Mats (and When to Use Each One)

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If you’ve just started using a Cricut machine (or even if you’ve been crafting for years), understanding the different types of Cricut mats can make a big difference in your results. Cricut mats come in a few different colours—and no, it’s not just for looks! Each colour represents a different level of grip, designed for specific materials.

Let’s break down the four main types of Cricut mats and what they’re best used for.

💚 LightGrip Mat (Blue)

Best for: Lightweight materials like regular paper, light cardstock, vellum, and thin vinyl.

The LightGrip mat is perfect when you’re working with delicate materials that could tear when removed. It provides just enough stickiness to hold your material in place during cutting, but not so much that you’ll struggle to peel it off afterwards.

Tip: If you’re making paper flowers, cards, or anything with lightweight paper, this mat is your best friend.

💗 StandardGrip Mat (Green)

Best for: Medium-weight materials like heavy cardstock, patterned paper, iron-on (HTV), and vinyl.

The StandardGrip mat is the most versatile of the bunch. It’s the one you’ll probably use the most, especially if you’re working on a variety of projects. It holds materials firmly in place but is still easy to clean and reuse.

Tip: Always cover it with the plastic sheet when not in use—it helps preserve the stickiness!

💜 StrongGrip Mat (Purple)

Best for: Heavy materials like chipboard, poster board, leather, and some types of fabric.

This one is ultra-sticky, designed for thick or textured materials that need a stronger grip to stay put during cuts. It’s especially useful for projects made with the Cricut Maker or Explore that involve thicker craft board or balsa wood.

Tip: Avoid using thin materials on this mat—they may tear when you try to remove them.

💛 FabricGrip Mat (Pink)

Best for: Fabric (especially when using the Cricut Maker’s Rotary Blade).

The FabricGrip mat has a lighter adhesive that works beautifully with fabric, especially when paired with the rotary blade. It’s also designed to withstand the force of the blade without getting damaged or losing grip quickly.

Tip: If you’re cutting fabric with a Cricut Explore, you’ll still need to bond your fabric (e.g. with Heat n Bond) before cutting.

Cricut Mat Care Tips

  • Always cover your mat with the clear plastic sheet when not in use.

  • Clean off leftover bits with a scraper tool or lint roller.

  • Rotate your mat and use different areas to prevent wear in one spot.

  • When the mat loses its grip, wash gently with lukewarm water and mild dish soap—just be sure it dries completely before reuse.

Final Thoughts Cricut mats aren’t one-size-fits-all, and using the right one for your material can save you time, frustration, and wasted supplies. Whether you’re a vinyl pro, paper crafter, or fabric lover, choosing the correct mat will help you get cleaner cuts and smoother crafting experiences.

Happy crafting! 💕

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