Measure before buying materials

A custom desk pad can address an awkward gap between standard retail sizes. How To Geek's felt pad project starts by measuring the space and deciding how much of the keyboard and mouse area should be covered. Buy cork backing and felt slightly larger than the planned footprint, then cut the backing to the intended rectangle. The article uses adhesive backed cork to simplify attaching the upper fabric layer.

Check the layout before bonding

Flatten rolled cork before cutting, and use appropriate cutting tools with a straight edge to keep the dimensions controlled. Rounded corners are optional. Before removing the adhesive liner, lay out the felt and decide which portion of the fabric should appear on the finished surface. After bonding the layers, trim the felt around the cork backing. The guide favors wool blend felt over inexpensive acrylic for this project. A custom size solves a fit problem, but the final surface still needs to suit the mouse, writing habits and maintenance expectations of its user.

Make a Felt Desk Pad in a Size That Fits
A custom desk pad can address an awkward gap between standard retail sizes.