Before I made these, I had some dusty, shaggy burlap mats that left clay dust all over the table, and slid around a lot when kids tried to roll slabs and such. It was a clean up nightmare, trying to keep the tables in decent shape changing from class to class and project to project. So...
I measured my tables and realized that a single board per table would be too big and heavy, so I made two per table from thin plywood and wrapped them in canvas. Here is the back view (still really clean after 3 years!):
If I remember correctly, it was about a $60 investment but so so worth it. You can roll coils and throw slabs until your heart is content! I remember the first few times we used them, water and slip pills caused them to bend very slightly, but keeping them stacked on top of each other solved that problem overnight. Something to try if you haven't - happy building!
Interesting...I may have to pilot this idea on one of my tables. Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteThank you for the great idea!! I get tired of the dusty film on the tables too!
ReplyDeleteLove this!
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for sharing this great idea!
ReplyDeleteAs a lightweight alternative, look for bulk rolls of craft foam. I have found it in black and white easily available. It can be cut to fit, is easy to clean, and easy to move around/store. It's also inexpensive. I prefer it to canvas boards as it can be rinsed down and that keeps the dust down.
ReplyDeleteFollowed your plan and used these for the first time today. They are terrific!! Easy to work on and easy to clean up! Thanks so much for the idea!
ReplyDeleteThis is a terrific idea! I have been wanting to find a solution to this problem in my Elem. Art room.
ReplyDeleteWe have been using plastic picnic table cloths from a discount store. They are plastic on top & cottony white on the bottom. They last 2 years or so, but some of my students poke their fingers through them & them the clay gets on the art table.
THANK YOU for sharing your great idea!