AT-ECC Masking Tape Cutting Mat type C, 110x233 mm (Concentric Circles)

The DSPIAE AT-ECC cutting mat with concentric circles

An acrylic board with guide grooves in the shape of concentric circles engraved into both of its faces. You stick masking tape onto the mat, run the knife along a groove and get an accurate disc or ring. Without a template, round shapes practically cannot be cut out of tape repeatably, which matters with two identical wheels or a series of circular markings.

The workmanship

According to the manufacturer this is an acrylic board with grooves on both faces, which extends its life, because the back gets used as well. Acrylic is softer than a metal template and so spares the edge of the blade; a cut into it meets less resistance.

How to work with it

• Stick the tape across the circle you have chosen and press it down lightly.
• Run the knife in the groove with minimal pressure, and rather in two strokes than forcing the blade through in one.
• Lift the cut shape off with tweezers; your fingers will crumple it.
• Wipe the mat after a run of cuts, as the adhesive residue from the tape builds up in the grooves.

Who it is for

The mat will be appreciated above all by those who mask round elements: national insignia, wheels, mirrors, headlights, engine covers or targets. Besides tape, thin film and self-adhesive paper can be cut on it as well.

The patterns of the individual boards in the range do not overlap, so if you mask both round and angular shapes you will need more than one. The blade in the groove is sharp and runs straight toward the fingers holding the tape, so always cut away from yourself and keep the mat on a stable surface.