Finally, at the very end (at the time) some mentioned plastic cutting boards. It worked perfectly for me. They often come in 3s and you can get them in a variety of places. You don't have to remove them for washing, they don't weigh anything measurable, and they are easy to cut (I use kitchen scissors, not my fabric cutter!!!!!).
I am learning sooooo much from this message board. Thanx to you all.