Best quilting cutting mats according to redditors

Hello once more!

I'm back at the build game again after so much work and waiting, but another one is done. This time it's a Dimple 40% build, with DSA Scientific and matching Gat Yellows and Kailh Light Greens. I call it the TI-40Xa, paying homage to the original inspiration of DSA Scientific, the TI-30Xa calculator. Full build listed below:

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Dimple 40% Blue-Gray Case by LazyDesigners

Dimple Hotswap PCB

Dimple Brass Plate

MKUltra Foam

Gateron Yellow for Alphas (spring lubed with TX lube, stem/housing lubed with Krytox 205g0)

Kailh Pro Light Green for Mods (spring swapped to 68g and lubed with TX lube, stem/housing lubed with Tribosys 3203)

Zeal stabilizers (lubed with Krytox 205g0)

DSA Scientific Alphas + 40s kit

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Full album here: https://imgur.com/a/1G9ye2Z

Images captured and edited to taste with a Sony A7 III and Sony 24-70 f/2.8 GM, Sony 70-200 f/4 G.

Hopefully you all like it!


EDIT: It seems a lot of people have been asking for the mat I used. It's a cutting mat and you can get it from here:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0763YT9SZ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_KkgRDb4CVTK1X

https://www.amazon.com/X-Acto-X7761-Self-healing-cutting-measuring/dp/B0013CKM2A Here's a tiny one from a well known hobby company. So, way more expensive than one from a hardware store.

Howdy! I just got my printer today so this is fresh in my mind. I watched a lot of videos to understand what I needed and how to get everything set up. I would recommend checking out the 3DPrintFarm YouTube channel. There's a lot of great info in there. Here's a list of everything I picked up along with links to Amazon for the items I got off there. Hope it helps!

• Cutting Mat
  
  
• Microfiber Cloth for cleaning vat
  
  
• Activated Charcoal Mat to combine with printed bracket for better ventilation
  
  
• Link to bracket
  
  
• Paper Filter with Metal Mesh (Paint Strainer)
  
  
• Nitrile Gloves
  
  
• Funnel
  
  
• Metal Scraper
  
  
• Xacto Knife
  
  
• Sprayway Glass Cleaner
  
  
• Glasses Wipes to wipe bottom of vat
  
  
• Pickle Strainer
  
  
• Rubber Squeegees
  
  
• Sandpaper
  
  
• Precision pliers
  
  
• UV lamp for curing
  
  
• Toothbrush to clean prints in alcohol

>brushes

If you use GW brushes, get the Standard, Fine Detail, and Wash brushes. These give you a good starting point for most of the stuff you'll be doing. Otherwise you'll want to find similar brushes in other ranges (Windsor & Newton make good brushes). If you go with third-party brushes I think the sizes you'll want are 1, 0, & 3/0.

>mats,

You can get any sort of sewing mat, where it's basically just a piece of rubber you lay on the table. Joann's Fabrics or any sort of sewing store should have this. Here's one I found on Amazon.

>thinners

The paint you're working with is water based, so water will work as a thinner. If you decide to airbrush things that will change what you need but for now, build a wet palette.

>cutters

Try these

>etc

You'll need some glue at the very least. You might also want some helping hands to hold things while you paint them/glue them together.

>is there a site that tells you what colours you need to paint certain colour styles?

I'm not aware of any one site as a catch-all for painting any scheme, but googling things led me to this site that goes into detail about painting Space Wolves. You could also consider this video from Games Workshop where they go through the steps of painting the model.

As for the paints themselves, I'd recommend working with the Vallejo Game Color paint range. They come pre-thinned (extremely helpful for new painters) and convert to Games Workshop colors pretty easily.

Some more hobby stuff to help you get started:

Zenithal Priming

Airbrushing

Object Source Lighting

Amazon sells a green version of that board. https://www.amazon.com/Hobby-Craft-Double-Healing-Cutting/dp/B00GEKIM8W

What else is green? Plants. What are plants on? Planets.

The next BGS game will have a planet in it!

Edit: Holy Todd! I found more of them. https://www.amazon.com/Healing-Cutting-Scrapbooking-Quilting-Crafts/dp/B01N7NTH88 Do you see what it says in the picture? Paragon! BGS is teaming up with Epic to re-release Paragon.

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Section 1: Tools

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Note: Just because it is more expensive doesn't mean it is better. You could get by just fine with the "cheaper" options.

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| Tool | Required vs. Optional | Use | Notes | Price & Link |
|:---|:---:|:---|:---|:---:|:---:|
| Tandy Wholesale Membership | O | Allows you to get better pricing at Tandy. | This is definitely optional. Items will cost slightly more without it OR if you have a tax ID you can get the membership with better pricing for free. | $35 / Free|
| Awl Haft | R | The handle which will hold your blade. | This particular haft allows for different blades to be added or removed with ease. | $16 / $35|
| Diamond Awl Blade| R | This is the blade used for piercing the holes in your projects.| This goes in the awl haft.| $4.80 / $28
| Channel Groover | R | Used to measure and gouge channels where your thread will lay. | Some say gouging a channel is optional however I find it to be required. It further protects your thread from damage. | $16 / $80 |
| Overstitch Wheel | R | Marks where you will punch your holes. | This particular overstitch wheel is a few dollars more than the versions that only offer one wheel. | $24 / $225 |
| Edge Beveler | R | Used to bevel and round off the edges of your project prior to burnishing. | Sizes vary. The smaller the number, the smaller the round edge. | $12 / $55 |
| Adhesive Glue | O | Used to hold your pieces of leather together prior to piercing the holes. | Some people prefer binder clips instead of glue. I've found that the clips end up making marks on my projects so I've always stuck with glue. | $6 / $30 |
| Gum Tragacanth | R | Used as a burnishing agent for your edges.| Some people use saddle soap. I prefer gum trag.| $6.40 / $21|
| Harness Needles | R | Used in combination with the thread for your projects. | Avoid the stitching needles. They break very easily.| $5.99 / $7.50 |
| Xacto Blade | R | Used for cutting projects. | You may have one of these at home already. Be ready to have replacement blades handy ($21.95) | $2.49 / $50 |
| Self-Healing Cutting Mat | R | Used for cutting your leather projects.| You may have one of these at home already. If so, you can obviously use that.| $14.73 / $50.80 |
| Cork-backed Ruler| R | Used for cutting straight lines.| I highly recommend the cork-backed version. It will save from accidental cuts/slips.| $4.80 / $14 |
| Burnishing Tool | R | Used in combination with the gum tragacanth to get a good burnish.| A good piece of canvas can be used as well. | $8.99 / $80 + $99|
| Sanding Tool| O | Used to sand down the edges prior to burnishing.| You might have sandpaper at home. Feel free to use that too.| $7.30 / $0 with dremel|
| Steel Square | O | Used for creating nice, even squares/rectangles for projects. | Learn to use this correctly!| $8 / $14|
| Thread Cutters | O | Use these for cutting your thread in the hard to reach places without running the risk of damaging your project. | Scissors work for cutting thread and the xacto blade can work for cutting thread inside your projects -- just be careful! | $3.95 / $39 |
| Maul | O | Used for end punches, rivets, snaps, chisels, or irons. | You really only need one of these if you are planning on doing any of the activities mentioned previously. | $20 / $55 |
| Pricking Iron/Chisel | O | Use these to mark or punch your holes instead of an overstitch wheel and awl. I prefer using the overstitch wheel and awl but others like the irons/chisels. | There is a big difference between irons vs. chisels, diamond vs. lacing. They all produce different results. Definitely ask before purchasing! The ones I linked are very different.| $12 / $259|
| Creaser | O | Used for decorative creases on things like card slots. | Definitely optional and definitely personal preference. | $14.40 / $72 |
| Wax | O | Used for burnishing. Gives the edges a nice seal. | The $10 is my top secret wax I use. I bought a bunch on sale for $5 and it is fantastic. | $4 / $10|

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https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0027RN0JW/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I think everyone in the entire world uses this one from amazon:
https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B00RO1CD9O/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_Xu4ODbQ3TTHXK

One side is imperial and the other is heretic. I mean Metric.

Thanks! It's just a cutting mat, this one specifically is this: https://www.amazon.com/Dahle-Vantage-Self-Healing-Cutting-12-Inch/dp/B0027RN0JW?th=1

I'm basically using it to have a fully level surface with no gaps on my desk I made with 2x6" planks

First I'll list what I bought and then I'll discuss what I have or what I'd have done differently.

Not listed are an xacto blade/utility knife, cork-backed ruler, and steel square. These were purchased at Harbor Freight.

Awl Haft

Diamond Awl Blade

The awl haft and diamond blade (E42) are great. I like the combo I bought. The handle has a chuck instead of some I saw which need the blade pressed in to the chuck.

Channel Groover

The channel groover I bought is nice. The chuck, similar to the awl haft, is very convenient for quick adjustments.

Overstitch Wheel

Doing it again, I probably would have bought some diamond chisels over the overstitch wheel, but so far it's worked alright. I will be buying the chisels eventually.

Edge Beveling Kit

I had no idea what edge beveler to buy with so many sizes and never having touched leather, so I'm really happy with the one I bought. It comes with 5 sizes.

Harness Needles

I bought 3 sizes of harness needles. Probably overkill but they were $3 a pack and I didn't know what size I needed. I've been using the medium ones and they are working well with the thread I got.

Cutting Mat

The cutting mat is nice. It's a bit thicker than the ones I found locally at Michaels.

Lacing Pony

The lacing pony is probably my biggest regret that I was forced to buy. I don't have access to any woodworking tools so I was stuck purchasing one. I should have had a coworker do it for me in his shop at 1/5 of the cost. It comes in two pieces and the holes in mine didn't line up at all. I ended up having to drill a hole for the screw.

Art of Hand Sewing

The book comes highly recommended from everyone. I've flipped through it but I learned my basic technique from youtube videos. As I try to do more I'm sure I'll reference it.

Thread

I bought .035" waxed cord from Maine Thread. I have nothing to compare it to but it seems to work okay.

Leather

And finally the leather. I'm still not sure if I made the right purchase, although buying a shoulder of leather seems to be a popular beginner suggestion. Already I'd like to have more variety, but I think I'm going to a Tandy Leather this weekend so maybe I'll pick up some other random stuff.

Things I didn't buy that I should have:

Contact Cement

Gum Trag

Burnishing Tool

Hammer/Maul

Leather finish


I actually made a decent stitch I was happy with on my second try. I didn't buy these items because I planned on doing lots of practice on scraps but because I feel good about my initial work I'd like to try to make something. Without those few items I'm kinda stuck for the moment.

US Art Supply 18" x 24" GREEN/BLACK Professional Self Healing 5-Ply Double Sided Durable Non-Slip PVC Cutting Mat Great for Scrapbooking, Quilting, Sewing and all Arts & Crafts Projects https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00L5I8RII/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_yUD4Bb6S6APCS

It all depends on what type of builder/crafter you want to get into. Buying all the "machines" and tools for someone that would be a foamsmith but you're really a needlework kind of person makes it a potential waste of money and time (and vice versa).

IF you want to get into an overall crafting/building in general, here are the tools and materials I've gathered for my workshop:

I'm gonna put the word **Optional** for the items that are not completely necessary for first time builders, but definitely worth while down the road.

• Breakaway blades - You can get a pack and break away the blade once it dulls or no longer sharpens.
  
• Rotary cutting wheel - for quick fabric cuts https://www.amazon.com/Fiskars-195210-1001-Comfort-Rotary-Cutter/dp/B000B7M8WU/
  
• Kershaw Sharpening stone - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000WALUV6/
  
• Dremel (or rotary tool) - I've seen these go for as low as $30 for one that has 2 speeds. Since it's mostly for costuming, the 2 speeds is plenty.
  
• Besides the Dremel, if you can, pick up a Belt Sander **Optional** from Harbor Frieght (particularly when it goes on sale and they issue a 20% coupon) I got mine for around $50 and it is a time saver!
  
• Heat gun, I picked one up from Harbor Freight and it was under $10 at the time. It's still going strong and I have had no issues.
  
• Wood Burning Tool **Optional** - This will help you add some great details on the foam. There is a good starter kit also that contains a bunch of nibs, including a soldering nib, as well as a hot knife attachment. The hot knife will cut through foam like butter. One note though, if you don't plan on getting a separate dedicated hot knife, use the one that comes w/ the kit for the finer cuts. The wood burner is a very versatile tool!
  
• For the glue. I would suggest Barge Contact cement or DAP Weldwood. This is what I use and it's proven to be a great option. Hot glue is still very helpful and can be used for quick fixes or adding additional bond. My only reason for not using hot glue for foam is that it takes time to cure and you have to hold it in place. Also, sometimes it creates messy seams.
  
• Kwik Seal paintable caulk or flexible spackle - to cover up the seams you can use either of these. Difference between the two, 1) the caulk needs to be smoothed out before it dries, you can use water. 2) the spackle can be sanded after it dries if you don't apply it smooth the first time.
  
• On the topic of concealing seams or general sculpting, you should look into Foam Clay. It is very malleable and once cured overnight, it's basically shaped foam.
  
• Mod Podge or Flexible Clear Coat spray **Optional** - To coat the finished and painted product, you will want to use something that will protect it and also be flexible. Unless, you want it to be very rigid, you can use Epsilon Pro to coat it, but I can't guarantee that it won't crack. Especially areas that will need some flex. I say this is optional because some crafters don't do clear coating.
  
• Eye Protection & Mask - you don't want fine bits of foam flying into your eyes or lungs. Make sure you get eye pro and a good fine-filter respirator.
  
• Sewing machine - I'm not a needlework expert, but having one is great for sewing straps, hook & loop, minor clothing, etc... Obviously if this is more your expertise, get one that you know you'll love and have great use of.
  
• Cutting Mat - Useful for both the foamsmith and the needlework crafters. I've used both the Fiskars and the US Art Supply brands. Personally the US Art Supply one is way better IMO. It holds up to more cuts and abuse.
  
  Here are some helpful options for your search for EVA foam. Hopefully one of the stores I list here will be some-what local for you. Home Depot, Lowes, 5 Below, BJ's, Costco, Walmart, & Harbor Freight all carry the EVA (floor mat) foam. I have personally purchased and used foam from all of these locations.
  
  
• Your standard craft foam (from craft stores like JoAnne's or Michaels) will be anywhere between 2mm - 6mm. These are great for accent pieces or adding fine details. Keep in mind anything under 8mm will need some sort of rigid structure in order to maintain a good shape for armor. (like cardboard or something) FYI - Joanne's now carries the Yaya Han branded EVA foam mats in various thicknesses.
  
• Harbor Freight has 4 (24"x24") tiles for $8.99 and sometimes have an additional 20% off coupon circulating around. The back of their EVA foam is a standard heat treated texture. They also carry a 72" long (8mm) foam roll with a heat treated diamond patterned back for $9.99.
  
• At BJ's & Costco, I've bought some from these places as well, they carry 8 (24"x24") tiles for $9.89. But people have complained of its quality. (I personally have never had any notable issues with them.) The back of their EVA foam is generally heat treated usually w/ a diamond pattern.
  
• Home Depot & Lowes carries the 4 pack (25"x25") anywhere between $20 - $25. The back of their EVA foam is a standard heat treated texture. Though these seem fine, they are more expensive and are just like the ones at Harbor Freight.Walmart carries a 12 pack (24"x24") for around $18 - $20. The back of their EVA foam is the typical heat treated texture.
  
• 5 Below carries single tiles (no packs) (multiple colors) for $5.00. Same as the others, standard heat treated texture on the other side.
  
• TNT Cosplay Supply carries various sizes and thicknesses of EVA/Craft foam without the heat treatment backing. This is especially good if you don't want to have to deal with sanding down the heat treated backing to help glue adhere better. They are more expensive, but the quality is always great.
  
  Helpful links from the masters: Evil Ted Smith , Punished Props , Odin Makes , KamuiCosplay.
  
  Hope this helps.
  
  *note some prices are subject to change*

Amazon has them.
ZERRO Self Healing Cutting Mat https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06Y5MW6G3/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_vISyCb7NGG8VV

This is my work setup, so it’s mostly spreadsheets and general UI navigation. But it feels very accurate. I was afraid it was going to be too ‘grippy’ as I’ve read some users say while I did research on it before I bought. But it’s actually a very good surface and I’d say it compares to a Mionix Propus 380 mouse pad’s texture and not grippy at all.

Below is the mat I ordered, from not gripe is the blue wasn’t as the picture makes it out to be.
Dahle10693 Vantage Self-Healing Cutting Mat, 24" x 36", Blue, 5 layer PVC Construction, 1/2" Grid Lines, Self Healing for Maximum Durability, Perfect for Cropping Photos, Cutting, Sewing, and Crafts https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0039KNAC8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_zUOIzbGVTD5X2

For tools (for example, to make a wallet), you would need... anything missing?

Wooden slicker for burnishing (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0048FM2OU?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=ox_sc_sfl_title_27&smid=A3NY6IRPSQ8J63)

self-healing mat (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0006SDOFO?keywords=self%20healing%20mat&qid=1449180954&ref_=sr_1_8&sr=8-8)

Cement (http://www.amazon.com/Barge-Cement-Rubber-Leather-Glass/dp/B002JL2ZHE/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1449180993&sr=8-2&keywords=leather+contact+cement)

Edge dye (http://www.amazon.com/Tandy-Leather-Eco-flo-Professional-Dressing/dp/B00LKMAJQW/ref=sr_1_13?ie=UTF8&qid=1449181034&sr=8-13&keywords=leather+edge+dye)

Sand paper

grover for making stitch grooves (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00OHAHICM?keywords=leather%20edge%20beveler&psc=1&qid=1449180851&ref_=sr_1_1&sr=8-1-spons)

beveler (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00430GAS4?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=ox_sc_sfl_title_30&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER)

awl/chisel for making stitch holes (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00CBRVKOK?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=ox_sc_sfl_title_31&smid=A1EX7LU0M6LM21 http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0036LNXEA?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=ox_sc_sfl_title_29&smid=A2UDNPGKURPVSY)

needles for stitching and thread (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00114RBSI?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=ox_sc_sfl_title_26&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER)

Anything else?

Thanks! It's the Alvin 18x24" self-healing: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0025189VE/

Like this?

DAFA Professional 24" x 18" Self-Healing, Double-Sided Cutting Mat, Rotary Blade Compatible, (36x24), (24x18), (18x12), (12x9) Sizes, for Sewing, Quilting, Arts & Crafts https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00P6KPKAE/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_aAgPDbA0QGA3B

Pic shows metric

Looks like a cutting mat. I’ve got a great big one that covers my whole desk. Black on one side, and green on the other. They work really well as basic worktable surfaces.

US Art Supply 24" x 36" GREEN/BLACK Professional Self Healing 5-Ply Double Sided Durable Non-Slip PVC Cutting Mat Great for Scrapbooking, Quilting, Sewing and all Arts & Crafts Projects https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00L5I8RTW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_JHMXCbHCH132P

It is a Zerro 34x26 cutting mat

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06Y5MW6G3/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Here is a photo I did when I got it without anything on it. Fits my desk perfectly.

Reddit post

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0025189VE/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B0025189VE&linkCode=as2&tag=goosgunblo-20

zip ties, - skip the heat shrink for the esc's around the arms. Just zip tie them.

LOTS of nylon spacers - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B013G1QSNW/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

solder braid

Hex drivers - https://www.amazon.com/PIXNOR-Hexagonal-Driver-Screwdrivers-Helicopter/dp/B00QLZGRHS/ref=sr_1_5?s=industrial&ie=UTF8&qid=1467916704&sr=1-5&keywords=hex+driver

sma pigtails - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01DNMAEJS/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

rubbing alcohol(gets off flux)

90 degree single pin headers - https://www.amazon.com/2-54mm-40-Pin-Header-Connector-Length/dp/B00R1LQ3FC/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1467916531&sr=8-1&keywords=90+degree+single+pin+headers

mat - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00P6KPKAE/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

wire cutters - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00FZPDG1K/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o09_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

It's a self healing cutting mat.

https://www.amazon.com/ZERRO-Self-Healing-Cutting-Double/dp/B072WN8XFN/ref=sxin_3_ac_d_pm?ac_md=1-0-VW5kZXIgJDEw-ac_d_pm&keywords=cutting+mat&pd_rd_i=B072WN8XFN&pd_rd_r=70ca336c-ba9e-43a1-9057-80aaea75d8f1&pd_rd_w=CXERx&pd_rd_wg=CXrtM&pf_rd_p=aed08533-d0f3-456a-bfcd-3ec60fc417c9&pf_rd_r=PB4W2A2MSW5FPPN6ZWZB&psc=1&qid=1569199041&s=gateway

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0027ROZ9G/

I used this chipboard (ordered from that exact amazon listing). It's 2mm thick. I printed the labels out on a laser printer, used 3m super 77 spray adhesive to glue the paper onto the chipboard, then used a rotary cutter, metal ruler, and self-healing cutting mat to cut the dividers to size.

I had all of this stuff around the house - I've PnP'd several games, so none of this stuff is new to me.

I use this one.

In that case, I would skip using graph paper and if you don't already own one, buy a cutting mat like this

I know it's not the answer you wanted to hear. We would all love to have a 3D scanner that outputs CAD data seamlessly that doesn't cost $100,000 but they just don't exist yet. The technology is getting better, but it's just not an inexpensive one-click solution yet.

If you want to play around with 3D scans, check out /r/Photogrammetry
With photogrammetry you can use your cell phone camera to feed pictures into free or commercial software to create 3D point clouds. The point clouds are then connected and converted to meshes which are then processed into solid models.

If you're still a student, ask around. Many universities have laser scanners that could quickly create a 3D model like you're describing. Good luck and let us know if you find a satisfactory solution!

I wanted something I could easily move between rooms in my house, but would let me easily hide from company or cats.

The mat on top is glued down with spray photo glue so it could be removed later if desired (through some difficulty). The entire table is collapsible, I would need un-clamp the lamp and remove the shelved items.

Table - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000NPON1Y
Lamp - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01CHZLW5M
Mat - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0027ROZ9G

I'm not really "experienced," but I've made a couple. As far as I know, the best way to figure out how much foamcore you'll need is to plan out your insert before you start. Draw out all the pieces (with measurements), then figure out how they'll be laid out on the size of foamcore you can get, then add some extra in case you screw up (which, if you're anything like me, you will... several times).

As for tools - a utility knife with replaceable blades (and a whole lot of replacement blades), a self-healing cutting mat, an adjustable square, a metal ruler, some good glue, and something to help hold everything together (pins and/or ratchet clamps) are all good things to have on hand.

You can try one of those plastic cutting mats for sewing. One of these https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00L5I8RTW/ref=zg_bs_262643011_13?ie=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=YMBFT6YKR9K9KT8FAF8H some of them are better quality than others, and they come in different sizes.

I roll out my smaller doughs on a silicone baking mat. This is the exact one I have, and I love it! https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00IY1C7D0/ref=mp_s_a_1_13?ie=UTF8&qid=1511365887&sr=1-13&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65

I've used one of these for years and it's great

Dahle Vantage 10673 Self-Healing Cutting Mat, 24"x36", 1/2" Grid, 5 Layers for Max Healing, Perfect for Cropping, Sewing, & Crafts, Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0027RN0JW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_2FfTAbRT9T7JM

In addition to whats listed here:

Self Healing Cutting Pad

Roll of paper towels

Exacto Knife with spare blades

Mini Files

Pin Vise (aka Mini Drill)

Tools List:

Diamond Awl Chisel

Cutting Mat

Scratch Awl

Channel Groover and Beveler

Gum Tragacanth

Stitching Needles

Burnishing Tool

Rubber Mallet

Please note: These are all "bargain" options. They will get you started and will do its job.

Good observation. This seems to be a standard work matt for doing electronics stuff, I picked mine up at my local hobby shop. Maybe something like this is what your looking for?

Its this self healing cutting mat

Look for a self-healing cutting mat such as this https://www.amazon.com/X-Acto-X7761-Self-healing-cutting-measuring/dp/B0013CKM2A

Those are cutting mat, used to protect the surface of the table from your hobby knife. I bought mine from amazon.

Alternatively, you can use the shape on the mat to cut masking tape for more advanced painting purposes.

Maybe this?

Don't bother. Unless you are trying, actually setting fire to a wooden countertop with a soldering iron is pretty damn hard. You would have to jam it into a heap of shavings to light a fire with it. If you really want to, you can get a mat like this.

It is a Fiskars 45mm Contour Rotary Cutter. $10 at Amazon or Walmart. I use it on a X-acto selfhealing mat. You have to make sure you get the right one that does not have ink that rubs off easily. A labmate ordered a replacement that smudged all over some plates. Here is the exact model I have: X7761 12x18in

https://www.amazon.com/X-Acto-X7761-Self-healing-cutting-measuring/dp/B0013CKM2A

It's Hobbico Builder's Cutting Mat.

According to all the reviews, this is very common. And one reviewer even says they have had it for a whole year now and it still smells! I would take it back.

Source

I believe I have finally decided on my first Gunpla, the HG Age II Magnum and want to make sure the items I have added to my Amazon cart are ideal or not for a beginner/future use for HG and MG kits. The list is as follows:

• Gundam Model Builder's Cutting Mat 12"x9"
  
• Findfly 9Pcs Gundam Model Tool Kit
  
• Gundam Marker Value Set
  
• Mr. Super Clear Flat Spray
  
• Bamboo Skewers
  
• Alligator Clips
  
• ScotchBlue Painter's Tape
  
• Styrofoam Blocks
  
  I know that this sub has a list of tools and tutorials, but because I'm trying to budget, I was thinking no more than $100 would be ideal for me to start with. Since I'm beginning with HG models, I don't think I need a full set of Gundam markers, but if it's needed/required/highly suggested, I might pick them up as well.
  
  So I have read and seen that top coating and panel lining are essential for MG models to make them pop. Are they just as essential for HG model kits? Looking at pictures of the Age II Magnum I'm planning on getting from Amazon, it doesn't seem to have a lot of indents for panel lining. Of course, I could be wrong and be blind as a bat. If I don't do any sort of panel lining, is it still a good idea to add a top coat regardless?
  
  Also, how soon can one get into MG kits? I was originally going to jump straight into either the MG GM Sniper II or the RX-78-2 Ver 3.0 but after doing some research over the past few days, I've decided I'll be doing a few HG's to begin with as I haven't built model kits since I was like 7 or 8 with my dad. I'm thinking after the Age II Magnum, I was thinking about getting either the HG Double O Diver or the HG 00 Shia Qan[T]. Maybe after I complete the 3 HG's I've listed, is it possible to jump to the the GM Sniper II?
  
  TL;DR:
  
  

• Are the items I have listed a good starting point?
  
  
• Is a full set of Gundam Markers a necessity for HG/beginners?
  
  
• Are panel lining and top coatings important for HG model kits?
  
  
• Is it okay to use top coat on an HG model if no panel lining is used?
  
  
• Edit Do people usually top coat the accessories? I can't seem to find any info on that.
  
  
• What color panel lining pens do people normally use based on different parts of Gunpla's?
  
  
• What level of skill should one be at before getting into MG model kits?
  
  

The most standard ruler to start with is a 6"x24".

It will do almost all your cutting, and will adapt to a surprising amount of work.

This will be my next one (cause it is just that cool). But honestly, you have to be able to read measurements off of this. Omnigrid makes the easiest to read, but take a look at different ones and see what is good for YOU!

Florescent Green Ruler

​

No matter what ruler you get, you can always make them grippier! Try something like these:

Non Slip rings

​

This is my favorite mat. It has lasted over 20 years. It is thicker than other brands. (and cheaper!)

Alvin Mat

When I'm punching holes I currently use a piece of cardboard scrap underneath, but is it safe to do so on my cutting mat instead or will I ruin it? (I have this mat)

No ar15 pics? Hows that tekmat, is it basically just typical mousepad material?

I use one of these: http://www.amazon.com/Alvin-Professional-Cutting-Green-Black/dp/B0025189VE/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1393819838&sr=8-3&keywords=alvin+cutting+mat

I used this table and will end up supporting it on both sides with 9 cube shelves which gives a lot a storage. I have a 36 x 24 cutting mat. I read about someone using the cube shelves which makes the table about 36" high so I decided to try it, I like the height and I'm pretty short at just barely 5'4"

Hey everyone!

I'm as new as it gets. So, I made a shopping list after doing some research on everything that I think I need to start. I'll place the links to all the items in the lines below. Everything is on Amazon because... well why not?

Gundam

Glue

Marker

Tweezers

Knife

Cutters

Mat

More Markers!

*Krylon Matte Finish

Am I missing anything?

Buy a cutting mat mate:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0025189VE/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B0025189VE&linkCode=as2&tag=goosgunblo-20

It'll stop your mother/girlfriend/wife from violently murdering you in your sleep for ruining a table.

I have this one I bought on Amazon and it's great. It covers my entire workbench which is fantastic, and it doesn't slip when I'm working large pieces.

Hobbico Builder's Cutting Mat, 18x24 Inches https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0014VX88K/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_Os0rDb6G1PHT1

I’m using it as a buffer on an old glass computer table until I get a legit workbench. I’ve used it in the past for painting models and whatnot.

I have been buying the Dahle Vantage mats and they are outstanding. Thicker and more durable than my legit Olfa mats, no odor at all, ship flat instead of rolled, and crazy cheap. I was worried about the quality given the price, but I have been very impressed by them and now have like 8 different mats in 4 different sizes.

Here's what I bought, comes in larger sizes as well. I soldered on it but its designed for cutting, if you were sloppy enough it might mar the surface.

I agree with mr.godonut here. Also using a cutting mat has helped me.

I have one that looks similar that is a self healing board. It's basically a rubber mat that you can use to line things up, cut things on etc. If you cut something on top of the board and leave a cut in the rubber, it will smooth itself out after a couple hours.

EDIT:
Link to a self healing mat on amazon: https://www.amazon.com/X-Acto-X7761-Self-healing-cutting-measuring/dp/B0013CKM2A

Dahle Vantage 10673 Self-Healing... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0027RN0JW?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

You only need a cutting mat (I use this one), a decent knife (mine again) and a metal ruler. Some designs are intended to be assembled without glue, but some basic paper adhesive can be helpful anyway.

Patience is pretty important; sometimes I rush a cut and it ends up drifting away from the ruler, which has resulted in having to reprint something.

Judging by the lines, it looks to be a self healing cutting mat. Not sure the brand from this picture as the text on it’s a bit blurry.

I did recently get one that looks very similar that is a cutting mat, it’s vinyl so it’s rated for like 100 degrees I think. Not quite a soldering mat but here

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0039KNAC8

Edit: looks to be a protek cutting mat

Here is the exact same mat on amazon -> https://www.amazon.com/Hobbico-Builders-Cutting-18x24-Inches/dp/B0014VX88K

It's a cutting mat. Mine is this one:
https://www.amazon.com/OLFA-Double-Sided-Self-Healing-Rotary-Mat/dp/B0006SDOFO/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1498482827&sr=8-1&keywords=olfa+cutting+mat

Need it for model making. 24x36 is a little excessive even for me but running out of room on a long cut sucks. You can get them at most art stores or fabric stores in various sizes

So what I would do is get a piece of magnetic imaging film [1] and survey the desk area for fields. Besides that I would introduce an insulator, for any development board I work on, I have used those green craft boards [2] which are seem to be great insulators. You might also try using a wrist connected grounding strap [3]. If there are any electrical posts built into the table, unplug them, and inspect the insulators and neutral & ground runs.



[1] https://www.amazon.com/Magnetic-Viewing-Film-Field-Display/dp/B00129CCGS


[2] https://www.amazon.com/Hobby-Craft-Double-Healing-Cutting/dp/B00GEKIM8W


[3] https://www.amazon.com/Anti-Static-Wrist-Strap-Grounding-Adjustable/dp/B002O6U65W

Just a standard Rotary Mat.. I’d like to get something different, but no gun cleaning mats I’ve found yet cover the surface area of that table (24 x 36 inches).

Yeah, definitely. I got the Alvin 24"x18" mat and it's $17.66 and Amazon prime. I saw u/pexon had a huge one when he sent me photos of some cable ideas and thought it was perfect for keyboard stuff.

Most people prime in white or black.

Cut mat

Here ya go
https://www.amazon.com/OLFA-Double-Sided-Self-Healing-Rotary-Mat/dp/B0006SDOFO/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?keywords=olfa+cutting+mat&qid=1572292687&sprefix=olfa+c&sr=8-3

Looks like a cutting mat. Think this is it!

Rotary cutter!!! All the way and for everything! I can't believe how much easier it is to cut all the different fabrics I use. Just roll along instead of dragging the x-acto. My mind way blown once I got the rotary. I almost never use my x-acto anymore. And pick up a big mat like 24x36" for $21 off amazon while your at it. It makes cutting larger projects so much more easier. I just upgraded form a small mat and wish I had so so long ago, especially since it was so cheap. Sorry I was late to the party, but I had to give my 2 cents...

Well in all fairness, self healing cutting mats have been available for a good while, though I've only heard ones purposed for cutting paper / hobbyist purposes. Googling "self healing cutting mat" gives this amazon hit of a such product, for example.

And for the record, I am not recommending these for cooking use, I have no idea of their toxicity, I've just seen these around in offices I've worked in for at least a decade or so.