One idea, from frequent guest and polymer clay expert Donna Kato, has proven so popular with the crafters around the studio, I thought it would be a good tip to pass along to all crafters--especially those who do most of their crafting on the kitchen or dining room table.
Donna uses a large piece of Formica countertop when she works with clay. The item is actually scrap from a kitchen countertop that was cut out to make room for a sink to be inserted. Almost any contractor or kitchen remodeling store should have these pieces around to either sell or give away. This piece in itself makes a grand work surface whether you are working with clay, painting, gluing or just crafting , but with the addition of two small items, it becomes even more practical. Add a drawer pull along one long edge. It makes the Formica, which is quite heavy, so much easier to pick up and carry. Along the opposite edge, nail a length of lattice or a portion of a yardstick. Position it lengthwise and perpendicular to the Formica so that the side edge of the wood strip is even with the top surface of the Formica (figure A). It will form a lip that will catch on the edge of the tabletop and keep the Formica piece from slipping. For those who have youngsters crafting, even if they are just coloring, it can be a great tabletop saver!
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