1950
The Birth of Alvin
Alvin Shoham and his brothers establish Alvin, quickly becoming the premier US manufacturer of professional drafting supplies.
1969
Vinyl Innovation: VYCO by Alvin
Alvin revolutionizes drafting surfaces with VYCO, a durable replaceable vinyl board cover that becomes an industry standard.
1976
The Invention of the Cutting Mat
Alvin introduces the groundbreaking Green plastic cutting mat, transforming model making and surface protection with its innovative design.
1984
The Introduction of the Grid
A measurement grid was added to the surface along with the signature pine color that is very easy on the eyes when working for long periods.
1985
Alvin mats become the industry standard for graphic design
Our 'Green' cutting mat was the standard cutting surface for graphic designers, mechanical and paste-up artists. Before the Mac came along to make design digital an artist had to cut photos, artwork and type together to be photographed for printing.
1989
The GBM is Released
Alvin launches its iconic Green/Black 5-layer cutting mats featuring revolutionary "Self Healing" technology, setting a new industry benchmark.
1990
Cutting Mat Expansion
Alvin expands into specialized applications with a transparent cutting mat designed for graphic designers and photographers, seamlessly transforming light boxes into precision cutting surfaces.
1996
The Biggest. Ever.
Alvin breaks size barriers by introducing the GBM4896 - the largest commercial cutting mat available at four feet by eight feet, meeting the demands of professional studios.
2000
Alvin's Hobby Mats Debut
Alvin diversifies with a new line of lightweight Hobby mats, specifically engineered for the growing papercraft and scrapbooking communities.
2005
Alvin Becomes the Market Leader in Cutting Mats
Alvin's cutting mats become the most widely displayed brand in art stores nationwide, securing its position as the market leader in cutting mat technology.
2007
Pink Mat Supports Breast Cancer Fight
Produced an all pink mat to help in the fight against breast cancer, 100% of the proceeds to the cure.
2008
1,000,000 Mats
Alvin sells its one millionth Self Healing Cutting Mat.
2018
Crafted to Win: TV Showdown Featuring Alvin Cutting Mats
TV Craft Competition with Amy Poehler and Nick Offerman feature all Alvin cutting mats.
2019
Supersized Mat Celebrates 30 Years of Innovation
To commemorate the 30th anniversary of its iconic cutting mat, Alvin creates the world's largest cutting mat, measuring an unprecedented 8 feet wide by 20 feet long.
2020
2,000,000 Mats
Alvin reaches an extraordinary achievement with over two million cutting mats sold, officially becoming the best-selling cutting mat of all time.
2025
75th Anniversary
Alvin celebrates its diamond anniversary, marking 75 years of innovation and excellence in professional arts and crafts supplies.