Hubby has cut some in the sizes I want out of 3mm wood - eg: 12x12". I then trace around the board and then cut with rotary cutter & ruller. Takes longer but works fine and din't cost anything. xx

How about a T sq ruler. I have a matt with lines but I use a long Tsq ruler to keep me straight- works great with rotary cutter. I got it in architectual drawing supplies at office depot. (I took landscape architectual cad class once)

I use a one metre long metal ruler that I got at a hardware shop for about $6. Much cheaper (and longer) than any of the quilter's rulers I've seen. Perhaps this would be an option for you if you're near a hardware shop..? Do you have anything laying around with a straight-edge? My neighbour uses a piece of metal window framing or flyscreen frame for a straight edge to cut or rule against. I've even used a baking tray as a straight edge to use my rotary cutter with lol :) xXx

While you're waiting, if you are cutting out of a large piece, 2 options. Use blue tape and tape down the ends of your ruler to the mat(it holds really well and then comes up), it gives an extra help. You still have to hold the ruler down with your hand, but it does not shift.
Or-go old school. Make a template the size you want (4", example), and draw around it on the fabric. Then cut out just inside the mark. When you "rag" it, any imperfections in the edge will be lost.
Jo

If you have a Joanns, Michaels or Hobby Lobby in your area ,use a 50% coupon and they won't be such a hard hit on the purse.

Any ruler laying around in the house will do, just improvise.

Bev, if your kitchen cutting board has a firm straight endge perhaps that will work, the endge should be raised and firm, so you do not cut into the "ruler" material, and the cutter has a save driveway

I hope you can find a solution to your prblem. I used an ordinary ruler and my husband's stainless steel measure tape. I do now have my rulers, which I treasure. Lovies.***

Bev, I would offer if you do not find what you need, however shipping would probably cost just as much! I have not received Joann's coupon since before Christmas, and do not know what's up! Live Laugh Download Stitch! christine

Sorry I can't help but just a note....hasn't all the rulers etc gotten so expensive?!? Everything is just getting out of site.
Good luck on your search

Bev, that is so sweet! Did you get one? IF not, I have a straight one I can mail to you.... It's not a square, but with the mat having the rules on it - it should work..
Hugs and thanks! Jan

Do you have any straight edge..long enough to line up on the mat grid> Cardboard you could tape together to make it long enough?

This is what I did get one of those square plastic that they do embroidery on and cut to the size then you have a permanent square to use over and over.. I just finished one for my grand son.

I used a heavy clear plastic notebook that my kids abandoned and cut out my own. You could make your own and still hunt for a yard/garage sale later.

FYI. . . Bev , I am not sure were you live but today in Sundays paper( in Alabama ) Joann's has a 50 % off coupon . Nancy

Hi Bev, I have one I can send you for free. If you still need it? Just send me a quick e-mail with your addy and I will get it sent to you ASAP.

Hugs,
mjjust2ofus@yahoo.com