Garment and pattern work
Lay out larger pattern pieces, interfacing, templates and fabric sections on one flat protective surface.
Metric today, imperial tomorrow
One professional mat for both measuring systems
The OLFA CM-A1 gives serious sewists, quilters, pattern makers and crafters a generous A1-size cutting surface with a metric grid on one face and an imperial grid on the other. Turn it over when the project changes and keep cutting with the units your pattern actually uses.
- Metric and imperial grids remove the need to convert every measurement or buy two large mats.
- 920 x 610mm printed work area gives yardage, garment pieces and long rulers room to lie flat.
- 2mm double-sided construction provides a substantial surface for daily multi-purpose cutting.
- Broad OLFA tool compatibility supports rotary cutters, art knives and standard or heavy-duty cutters.
Metric plus imperial
940 x 630mmOverall mat size
920 x 610mmMetric work grid
36 x 24inImperial work grid
2mmDouble-sided mat
What arrives: one genuine OLFA CM-A1 green cutting mat. Both faces are usable and printed, with a metric grid on one side and an imperial grid on the other. Cutters, rulers and project materials are not included.
More room for fabric, patterns and full-length ruler cuts
The large working area lets more of the project stay supported while you measure and cut. It is an excellent foundation for a permanent sewing table, professional workroom, design studio or busy shared craft space.
Quilting and patchwork
Support long rulers, width-of-fabric strips, borders, binding and larger blocks more comfortably.
General studio cutting
Use suitable rotary cutters, art knives, specialty cutters or standard and heavy-duty OLFA handles.
Turn it over and keep working
A useful grid on every cutting face
Many patterns mix centimetres and inches. CM-A1 keeps both systems ready without crowding them onto one face. The metric and imperial grids each receive a full side, so the markings remain clear across the generous cutting area.
Metric face
Use the 920 x 610mm work grid for centimetre-based patterns, garment work and accurate general craft cutting.
Imperial face
Turn the mat over for the 36 x 24 inch grid used by many quilting rulers and international patterns.
Two usable surfaces
Spreading cuts across both sides helps distribute wear and gives each measuring system its own clean layout.
Choose the side that matches the project
920 x 610mm printed work area
Ideal when the pattern, ruler or template is measured in millimetres and centimetres.
- Dressmaking and pattern drafting
- Metric garment and craft patterns
- Technical layout and model work
- Customers who measure primarily in centimetres
36 x 24 inch printed work area
Ideal for quilting tools, blocks and patterns written in inches.
- Patchwork and quilting rulers
- Width-of-fabric strips
- Binding, borders and block trimming
- Patterns written for the US and UK markets
Size made clear: the complete mat measures 940 x 630mm, approximately 37 x 24.8 inches. The printed measuring areas are slightly smaller at 920 x 610mm and 36 x 24 inches.
Designed for more than rotary cutting alone
Unlike a rotary-only mat, OLFA specifies the CM-A1 for its standard-duty cutters, heavy-duty cutters, art knives, rotary cutters and specialty cutters. Match the tool and blade to the material, use controlled pressure and keep hands clear of the cutting path.
The genuine CM-A1 has a large 2mm-thick green cutting surface.
A suitable cutting mat protects the table and helps extend blade life.
OLFA designs mats to work as part of a complete professional cutting system.
One large mat covers both measurement systems.
Protect its shape and printed grids
Store the CM-A1 flat and keep heat well away
A large mat is only accurate while it remains flat. OLFA warns that heat and poor storage can cause permanent warping, so give the CM-A1 a suitable home from the beginning.
- Store the mat completely flat and never roll it.
- Do not leave it leaning diagonally for long periods.
- Keep it away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- Never iron on the mat or place hot cups and tools on it.
- Do not leave it in a hot or cold vehicle.
- Clean gently with mild detergent on a soft, damp cloth.
- Do not use alcohol, thinners or solvent-based cleaners.
- Move repeated cuts around the surface to avoid permanent grooves.
OLFA CM-A1 specifications
| Brand | OLFA |
|---|---|
| Model | CM-A1 |
| Direct Sewing SKU | CMA1 |
| Product type | A1-size double-sided multi-purpose cutting mat |
| Overall size | 940 x 630mm, approximately 37 x 24.8 inches |
| Metric work grid | 920 x 610mm |
| Imperial work grid | 36 x 24 inches |
| Thickness | 2mm |
| First face | Green cutting surface with metric grid |
| Second face | Green cutting surface with imperial grid |
| Compatible tool types | OLFA standard-duty cutters, heavy-duty cutters, art knives, rotary cutters and specialty cutters |
| Storage | Store flat and never roll |
| Country of manufacture | Japan |
| Included | One OLFA CM-A1 cutting mat |
| Not included | Cutters, rulers and project materials |
OLFA CM-A1 FAQs
Does the mat have both centimetres and inches?
Yes. The CM-A1 is double-sided, with a 920 x 610mm metric grid on one face and a 36 x 24 inch imperial grid on the other.
Is the mat exactly 24 x 36 inches overall?
No. The imperial grid is 24 x 36 inches. The full mat is slightly larger at 940 x 630mm, approximately 37 x 24.8 inches.
Is this a rotary-only cutting mat?
No. OLFA specifies CM-A1 for standard-duty and heavy-duty cutters, art knives, rotary cutters and specialty cutters. Always match the tool and blade to the material and use controlled pressure.
Is this the same as the thinner RM-MG-01 rotary mat?
No. CM-A1 is a 2mm multi-purpose mat with metric and imperial grid faces. RM-MG-01 is a 1.5mm rotary mat with an imperial grid on one side and a plain green reverse.
Is the surface self-healing?
OLFA groups its cutting mats as self-healing surfaces designed to close after normal cuts. Repeatedly cutting the same line can still create a permanent groove, so vary the cutting position.
Can I iron or press on the mat?
No. Heat can permanently warp the mat and damage the printed grids. Keep irons, hot cups, direct sunlight and temperature extremes away from it.
How should I store such a large mat?
Store it fully supported and flat. Do not roll it or leave it leaning diagonally for long periods. Check that your worktop and storage area can accommodate the 940 x 630mm overall size.
What is included?
One genuine OLFA CM-A1 green double-sided cutting mat. Cutters, rulers, fabric and other project materials are not included.
Set up a cutting station ready for almost any pattern
Choose the OLFA CM-A1 when you want metric and imperial grids, broad cutter compatibility and the space to handle serious sewing and craft projects.
Check the Exact Dimensions