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| Topic: Close Up Mats - an alternate, cheap source |
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Hey gang - in my search for a practical alternative for a close up mat, I came across the following supply store, which provides jewelry display pads at a very reasonable price. They are so cheap that I'd consider them disposable. Check out the products at this link: http://www.jewelrydisplay.com/browse.cfm/display-pads/2,282.html (cut and paste the above link, since the comma in "2,282.html" throws off the hyper-link) Hope this is helpful- -David |
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| Huh, that's actually not bad. I just built a miniature closeup pad/table felt into my portable box (measures about 1.5ftx6in). While its not big enough to do any spreads with a full deck of cards, it works great for packet effects and chop cup routines. Perfect for a table hopping environment. The only thing it lacks right now is trim. But I will consider putting one of these in the box to carry when I need more surface. |
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| Yeah, they are a bit small - but quite portable! |
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This place makes them larger. Not sure how much one saves after shipping/handling but I ordered 2 of the 12x18 size. I think you have to order by phone like I did. I plan on putting on those brass corners you get in craft stores. http://www.jewelrytray.com/catalog/pads.php |
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I'll stick with the traditional close up mats. Surface is not the only reason for using a pad especially on coin effects. If those pads are disposable, then it could potentially exceed the cost of having one good quality pad. I make a few that uses a picture frame, victorian stylings. Michael Ammar used one like that during a lecture and he even encouraged us to try making one ourselves - very dressy. I'll try to submit a photo. |
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| How thick are the jewelry display pads? Aren't most close-up pads about as thick as a mouse pad? The prices look really good though. |
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| They are pretty thin. And you need to put something tacky on the back to keep it from sliding. |
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| If those do not work for you try Pattrick's Mats at http://www.pattricksmagic.com We have some new personalized options and custom cutting. |
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| I attach a felt square to the top of a mouse pad with Scotch double stick tape, and then trim the edges. It looks nice and works really well. When the surface gets dirty or worn, I just replace the felt. |
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| Thanks for the info I think that could work well. |
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[quote] On 2011-09-30 07:43, pattrick wrote: If those do not work for you try Pattrick's Mats at http://www.pattricksmagic.com We have some new personalized options and custom cutting. [/quote] These are great close-up mats. Worth every cent. I have a couple of them. For really tough performing situations, I have a disposable solution, though. Some fabric stores sell automobile headliner material. It's fuzzy on one side and has a 1/4 inch foam pad built right in. It runs about $10 per yard, if you buy it right. It's very wide, and one yard will make about 10 pads that are 16 x 18 inches or so. |
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Thank you Bill for your suggestion. I'm going to search that out. I understand being frugal and clever, but at some point might as well perform on a folded cardboard box and staple a cut piece of t-shirt. |
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| Thanks for the link David. Though I'm happy with the mat I have, this is a good source for other items like plain zip lock bags, drawstring bags etc. |