How to Cut Coir

Step 1

1

Use a tape measure to measure the space for your coir mat. Measure the width of the space in front of your doorway and note it down on a piece of paper or in your phone. Measure the length of the space you want the coir to occupy next and note it down as well.

It’s a good idea to measure the length and width of the space in several spots, in case the area is not perfectly square or rectangular. If there are inconsistencies, use the smallest of the measurements, so the doormat fits in the narrowest or shortest spot.

You can use this method to cut a square or rectangular coir doormat out of a roll of coir or to trim a large doormat down to fit in your entryway.

Step 2

2

Mark the corners of your mat on the back of the coir in permanent marker. Flip your coir over, so the PVC backing is facing you and the fiber is facing down. Measure out all 4 sides on the backing with your tape measure and use a permanent marker to make a small dot or X where each corner will be.

Depending how dark the backing on the coir is, you might have to use a light-colored permanent marker, such as white or silver, in order to see it more easily.

Step 3

3

Draw lines between the dots using a straightedge and your marker. Lay a straight edge flat between 2 of the corner dots and draw a line along the edge in permanent marker to connect the dots. Repeat this for each side until you have the complete outline of your doormat.

Types of straightedges you can use include a carpenter’s square, a long ruler, or a carpenter’s level.

If you’re confident in your ability, you can just skip connecting the dots and jump right into cutting along the straightedge.