I use a wooden TV tray and put that square rotary cutter mat - the one that rotates - on it and use it for either holding the block layout so I can grab the pieces of a block to sew in order - - or also for trimming the 1/4 inch seam on the paper piecing. Works fabulous! As for ironing - I reserve that for my physical exercise - I'm getting bottom-heavy!!! :-)
Marysewfun