The best available surface is usually a dining table with a self-healing mat on it. Raise it if you can — a few centimetres makes a real difference to your back over an hour of cutting. Cut with the blade or the shear resting on the surface rather than lifting the fabric, which is what keeps the line true. Avoid cutting on carpet: the fabric shifts under the blade and you cannot see the line.
Questions people actually ask
Can I cut on the floor?
You can, and your back will object. If you must, kneel rather than bend, and work in sections. A dining table with a mat is better; the floor is a last resort rather than a plan.
How big a mat do I need?
Bigger than you think, and A2 is a sensible minimum for garments. Two smaller mats butted together leave a ridge that catches the blade, so buy one larger one rather than two small.
Last reviewed 2026-08-11