Revolutionize Your Crafting: Essential Tips on How to Restick Brother Scan n Cut Mat

The Brother ScanNCut is a fantastic tool for crafters and hobbyists of all levels. However, one of the common issues that users face is a loss of stickiness on the cutting mat. This can lead to materials slipping and misaligned cuts, frustrating your crafting projects. But fear not! This guide will walk you through the best ways to restick your Brother ScanNCut mat, bringing it back to life and ensuring your projects are precise and perfect.

Understanding the Importance of a Sticky Mat

The ScanNCut mat is your cutting surface‘s foundation. It holds your materials securely in place while the machine cuts with precision. The adhesive layer on the mat is designed to grip a wide variety of materials, from paper and cardstock to fabric and vinyl. Over time, this adhesive layer can become worn down, leading to a loss of stickiness. This can be caused by:

• Frequent use: The more you use your mat, the more the adhesive layer wears down.
• Type of material: Some materials, like textured fabrics or adhesive-backed paper, can leave residue on the mat, reducing its stickiness.
• Cleaning methods: Using harsh cleaners or abrasive materials on the mat can damage the adhesive layer.

Methods to Restick Your Brother ScanNCut Mat

Fortunately, there are several effective methods to restick your Brother ScanNCut mat, giving it a new lease on life. Let’s explore the most popular and reliable approaches:

1. Sticky Mat Restickers

Sticky mat restickers are specifically designed to revitalize the adhesive layer on your ScanNCut mat. These products are typically available in spray or roller form. Here’s how to use them:

• Spray Restickers:
• Clean the mat thoroughly: Remove any debris or residue from the mat using a damp cloth and mild soap. Let it dry completely.
• Apply the spray: Hold the can about 6-8 inches away from the mat and spray a thin, even coat over the entire adhesive surface. Avoid overspraying as it can make the mat too sticky.
• Let it dry: Allow the spray to dry completely as per the manufacturer’s instructions. This usually takes about 30 minutes.
• Roller Restickers:
• Clean the mat: Follow the same cleaning instructions as above.
• Roll the resticker: Gently roll the resticker back and forth across the entire adhesive surface of the mat.
• Let it dry: Allow the mat to dry completely before using it.

2. The Sticky Note Trick

This simple method is a budget-friendly option for restoring some stickiness to your mat:

• Clean the mat: As always, start with a clean mat.
• Apply sticky notes: Place several sticky notes on the mat, covering the entire adhesive surface.
• Press firmly: Press down firmly on the sticky notes to ensure good contact with the mat.
• Leave overnight: Allow the sticky notes to sit overnight. This will transfer some of the stickiness from the notes to the mat.
• Remove the sticky notes: Carefully peel off the sticky notes in the morning.

3. The Double-Sided Tape Method

This method is ideal for restoring stickiness to specific areas of your mat, especially if only certain sections have lost their grip:

• Clean the mat: Clean the mat thoroughly.
• Apply double-sided tape: Cut strips of double-sided tape and apply them to the areas where you need more stickiness.
• Press firmly: Press down firmly on the tape to ensure it adheres well to the mat.
• Trim excess: Trim any excess tape for a clean finish.

Tips for Maintaining Your ScanNCut Mat’s Stickiness

• Regular cleaning: Regularly clean your mat with a damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.
• Use a cutting mat protector: A cutting mat protector can help to prevent wear and tear on the adhesive layer.
• Store properly: When not in use, store your mat flat to prevent it from warping or losing its stickiness.

When to Replace Your ScanNCut Mat

While restick methods can extend the life of your mat, there will come a time when it’s necessary to replace it. Here are some signs that it’s time for a new mat:

• Severe loss of stickiness: If your mat is no longer holding materials securely, even after resticking, it’s time for a replacement.
• Visible damage: If your mat has tears, rips, or other visible damage, it needs to be replaced.
• Uneven cutting: If you’re experiencing uneven cuts or inconsistencies, a damaged mat could be the culprit.

Final Thoughts: Keeping Your ScanNCut Cutting Strong

Resticking your Brother ScanNCut mat is a simple, cost-effective way to extend its life and ensure your crafting projects are precise and successful. By following the methods and tips outlined above, you can keep your cutting mat in top condition, allowing you to unleash your creativity and bring your crafting dreams to life.

Questions You May Have

Q: Can I use any type of sticky note to restick my mat?
A: It’s best to use high-quality sticky notes that are specifically designed for paper. Avoid using notes with strong adhesive, as they can leave residue on your mat.
Q: How often should I restick my mat?
A: The frequency of resticking depends on how often you use your mat and the type of materials you cut. If you notice a decrease in stickiness, it’s time to restick.
Q: Can I use a hairdryer to dry the adhesive after resticking?
A: While a hairdryer can speed up the drying process, it’s best to avoid using it as the heat can damage the adhesive layer.
Q: What are some good brands of sticky mat restickers?
A: Some popular brands include Cricut Sticky Mat Resticker, Xyron Create-A-Sticker Re-Adhesive, and Brother ScanNCut Mat Restickers.
Q: Can I use a different adhesive to restick my mat?
A: It’s not recommended to use any adhesive other than those specifically designed for ScanNCut mats. Other adhesives could damage the mat or interfere with its cutting performance.