I have made many, many of these both in placemat size, mug rug size, play mat size and even put it on the side of tote bags (think grocery list, kids car tote, etc.).
Make sure you buy the heavier kind. There is a thin kind sold by some fabric stores that does not hold up, cracks, etc.
Get the best even if you think it costs too much. It comes in small pieces or by the yard and is easy to cut and stitch.
Check the pictures section for a few of those I made.