Thank you all for your in put.
I rarely use the grid either, but it's more the background colour I want to change. Looking through a ruler onto dark fabric when lining up the edge to cut is the problem I am encountering.I have the grey cut and press flip type board but it's too small. The surface on that is very hard too. The Martelli one looks the best on line. I have found only the medium size one that available in the UK. I will keep looking and thanks again for your help, I appreciate it.