I've been using one of these for quite a while. My son had 2 that he picked up at Wal-Mart for about $8. He was moving and didn't want to take them so I grabbed one. I used an old towel for the bottom and a simple piece of flannel for the top. It was large enough that I just secured it with large safety pins. It sits by my machine when I'm doing small projects or blocks. Folds up easily and goes back in the closet when not in use. Another great thing to look for in your thrift store shopping....