All About Desk Pads
Some call it a desk mat. Some call it a desk blotter. We call it a force field, but more on that later. The desk pad is sweet, whatever you name it, and we’re believers.
What is a Desk Pad?
First, a definition. Desk pad (n): 1. a thing that protects desks; 2. A thing that can turn any space into your workspace.
![](https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fken-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=200&s=8161a7782440835b56dc1fc7af139853 200w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fken-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=300&s=b91b2173ac12b0e6984b9913c208863f 300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fken-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=500&s=f28b5fa2e71bc891f2b48cc4583dabc7 500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fken-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=700&s=5b2858382d5b2010fa39651b405910f8 700w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fken-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=900&s=522adb642cfe2a4278e222543651df60 900w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fken-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1100&s=29b0d01b310876823ad0192c14afc633 1100w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fken-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1300&s=12a50b579a45068ba02afc02f7354b25 1300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fken-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1500&s=01498ddc9b9460a39579a26de390e21d 1500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fken-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1800&s=096cc4df96b14ecec3d29be06b5a6fae 1800w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fken-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2250&s=20535d12eaf6ab6c139483a185fdeaf7 2250w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fken-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2500&s=395cfea2be753b996a297da6dfaf1cf2 2500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fken-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=3000&s=08ed6543f605572b1d6a3dd5fcdad124 3000w)
"A desk pad is the first thing to buy when setting up your home office."
KEN TOMITA
Co-Founder
Don’t have a desk? That’s ok. The desk pad creates a workspace where one didn’t exist before. Maybe you find yourself at a kitchen table, or a coffee shop, or at that shelf that used to hold books but now is your “standing desk.” The simple act of setting down this unassuming piece of material immediately transforms not just the space but also how you jive with it.
Classic desk or not, the desk pad solves many problems, some of which you perhaps didn’t know you had.
Classic desk or not, the desk pad solves many problems, some of which you perhaps didn’t know you had.
![None](https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-desk-shelf-system-landing-cover-A2.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=200&s=73e7ef47dbc35f2e9d6d4c2516e23755 200w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-desk-shelf-system-landing-cover-A2.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=300&s=cf1c19002d58c7cc79566a46303c85b8 300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-desk-shelf-system-landing-cover-A2.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=500&s=f698b46cf5a40ad721b7537c45487e99 500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-desk-shelf-system-landing-cover-A2.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=700&s=e30314ebebb9d29cc7ce563021e4446b 700w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-desk-shelf-system-landing-cover-A2.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=900&s=d762622903312e03116c1c058a5924da 900w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-desk-shelf-system-landing-cover-A2.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1100&s=b32ed8291b14ffe1629ca87c3ad1601e 1100w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-desk-shelf-system-landing-cover-A2.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1300&s=9252bef875b0840e65497c3299c249b1 1300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-desk-shelf-system-landing-cover-A2.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1500&s=a018be8391321e47842ed01c05986137 1500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-desk-shelf-system-landing-cover-A2.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1800&s=65e8a561a985aa7fd40c8c3bdb2c1e3f 1800w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-desk-shelf-system-landing-cover-A2.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2250&s=d41e47a9f9acf51b8b15c9f451e45f77 2250w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-desk-shelf-system-landing-cover-A2.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2500&s=9261a06d67c4588be1e0c664817017b3 2500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-desk-shelf-system-landing-cover-A2.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=3000&s=aa7c12174976b46040f2401644fa8a97 3000w)
Why Should I Buy A Desk Pad?
It protects devices while also protecting the surface you’re using. On the flip side of that, if you’re using a surface you absolutely hate, it hides it with a graceful nonchalance.
We’ll let you in on a secret. Our office desks are IKEA hacks, and we don’t like them. But the desk pad single-handedly transforms them. Instead of touching a cheap, uninteresting surface, we touch luxury. Instead of staring at scratches and flat white, we rest our eyes on pleasant textures and good lines. So yes, a good desk pad protects what’s under it. But a great desk pad also elevates the experience of whoever is around it.
We’ll let you in on a secret. Our office desks are IKEA hacks, and we don’t like them. But the desk pad single-handedly transforms them. Instead of touching a cheap, uninteresting surface, we touch luxury. Instead of staring at scratches and flat white, we rest our eyes on pleasant textures and good lines. So yes, a good desk pad protects what’s under it. But a great desk pad also elevates the experience of whoever is around it.
Break It Up
When we created our desk pad, we were trying to break up all the wood we were seeing in our customers’ desk setups. Mixing woods can be a beautiful thing, but it needs balance and contrast to work. The desk pad provides it. One slim and trim piece of material can save an entire space from clashing. So, if your birch desk rubs your walnut laptop stand the wrong way, or your leather mouse pad competes with your leather-top desk, consider getting a desk pad to run interference.
Do I Need a Desk Pad?
You use your desk for all sorts of things, including taking your lunch. Here are some more ways a desk pad goes to work for you:
If you occasionally spill that ramen you love and are looking for something that’s easy to clean, there’s a desk pad for that.
You might need a comfortable writing surface for the moments when you turn to your trusty pen and notepad. The right desk pad will have a perfect cushion:resistance ratio, so your beautiful, fluid ink strokes won’t poke holes in your paper.
Do you live for the flow? Your desk doesn’t need to interrupt it. Get a desk mat big enough to be an all-in-one keyboard and mouse pad. It creates a continuous visual sweep that underlies and supports hours of hard work.
Or let’s say you’re virtually all digital, or spend hours at a time lost in your game of choice. A gaming desk mat can be a faithful friend here. It doesn’t try to talk to you, and, if you find one with a kickstand or two, it’ll hold your phone(s) for you.
If you occasionally spill that ramen you love and are looking for something that’s easy to clean, there’s a desk pad for that.
You might need a comfortable writing surface for the moments when you turn to your trusty pen and notepad. The right desk pad will have a perfect cushion:resistance ratio, so your beautiful, fluid ink strokes won’t poke holes in your paper.
Do you live for the flow? Your desk doesn’t need to interrupt it. Get a desk mat big enough to be an all-in-one keyboard and mouse pad. It creates a continuous visual sweep that underlies and supports hours of hard work.
Or let’s say you’re virtually all digital, or spend hours at a time lost in your game of choice. A gaming desk mat can be a faithful friend here. It doesn’t try to talk to you, and, if you find one with a kickstand or two, it’ll hold your phone(s) for you.
![None](https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fdesk-pad-guide-A1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=200&s=8d44bd4d0c23f58b496f39a227160d92 200w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fdesk-pad-guide-A1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=300&s=6a264ee723c3af1d39b18a764ff8c83f 300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fdesk-pad-guide-A1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=500&s=e95fc03a548fb92550cf87634f041c0c 500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fdesk-pad-guide-A1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=700&s=055f1e1e64b338d0078a13897fdfb8cf 700w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fdesk-pad-guide-A1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=900&s=293ab58785b89f64ebc9ea3df85421ac 900w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fdesk-pad-guide-A1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1100&s=24b16aa673d8a715f478817bb285e6b9 1100w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fdesk-pad-guide-A1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1300&s=33ac3ddfcc8d657147d7b0ec6b4a92e0 1300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fdesk-pad-guide-A1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1500&s=c817907fb8ca459eacdfd2e5ba4e0685 1500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fdesk-pad-guide-A1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1800&s=74da0595dbc294efc41f73c696810f97 1800w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fdesk-pad-guide-A1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2250&s=14197436099325035fb6dd166eef31f7 2250w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fdesk-pad-guide-A1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2500&s=faab685f02f95bedfb12476606d03729 2500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fdesk-pad-guide-A1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=3000&s=70a5b9e48bd5458fc2802e05b2d9f796 3000w)
How Do I Choose a Size?
But what size do you get? To which we say, how do you want to use it?
A small one is easy to move out of the way when you finish one task and move on to the next, giving you two desks in one. Especially when used with our desk shelf.
A small one is easy to move out of the way when you finish one task and move on to the next, giving you two desks in one. Especially when used with our desk shelf.
![None](https://siteleaf.grovemade.com/uploads/grovemade-desk-shelf-system-animation-C4.gif 200w,https://siteleaf.grovemade.com/uploads/grovemade-desk-shelf-system-animation-C4.gif 300w,https://siteleaf.grovemade.com/uploads/grovemade-desk-shelf-system-animation-C4.gif 500w,https://siteleaf.grovemade.com/uploads/grovemade-desk-shelf-system-animation-C4.gif 700w,https://siteleaf.grovemade.com/uploads/grovemade-desk-shelf-system-animation-C4.gif 900w,https://siteleaf.grovemade.com/uploads/grovemade-desk-shelf-system-animation-C4.gif 1100w,https://siteleaf.grovemade.com/uploads/grovemade-desk-shelf-system-animation-C4.gif 1300w,https://siteleaf.grovemade.com/uploads/grovemade-desk-shelf-system-animation-C4.gif 1500w,https://siteleaf.grovemade.com/uploads/grovemade-desk-shelf-system-animation-C4.gif 1800w,https://siteleaf.grovemade.com/uploads/grovemade-desk-shelf-system-animation-C4.gif 2250w,https://siteleaf.grovemade.com/uploads/grovemade-desk-shelf-system-animation-C4.gif 2500w,https://siteleaf.grovemade.com/uploads/grovemade-desk-shelf-system-animation-C4.gif 3000w)
SEAN KELLY, LEAD PRODUCT DESIGNER:
I love our small desk pad because it’s like a little car, and the desk shelf is a garage. I can slide the ‘car’ that’s holding my keyboard into the ‘garage’ when I’m done typing and need to sketch.
I love our small desk pad because it’s like a little car, and the desk shelf is a garage. I can slide the ‘car’ that’s holding my keyboard into the ‘garage’ when I’m done typing and need to sketch.
![](https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=200&s=39e7aebb92f3cfd2a534da1e6beaa1a9 200w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=300&s=477ecbeaf2d21e5d3d4b5e07240ad7dd 300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=500&s=a968a466bb944793aa8b7a2e779be57c 500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=700&s=b8a91b1ced5a505348963b2416a498ad 700w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=900&s=8c3deb511eeb08a7b895e4059f6c3185 900w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1100&s=bbf93f44f78be1911b5371bac2728287 1100w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1300&s=27e47cbcc71867f668094dd9d326ad94 1300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1500&s=86da8ee049a9d32f6b7baacac71f9627 1500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1800&s=c34184559327f13b8bf647bfc0e28bbb 1800w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2250&s=ea3603773151a023ecd66be02d151115 2250w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2500&s=83699d435401b43ca7ff7fb0d97bfc2d 2500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=3000&s=2a65bca8d31babed82e3e4d79d309ca1 3000w)
An extra large one both covers and carries a lot more. Either way you’ll want to make sure you measure your space twice and order once. And while you’re measuring, take a minute to step back and visualize the space you want to have.
Interlude: Desk Pad Theory
A desk pad is like an area rug for your work surface. It adds cushion and even absorbs light nicely. Rug theory says that a large rug can make a small room feel bigger simply by defining a larger area. Our desk pad theory says the same. It guides your eye, framing the objects and anchoring them so it doesn’t feel like they’re floating around. So if you want to feel like you have a big, grounded space, go for a larger desk pad. If, on the other hand, you adore your desk and can’t bear to cover it up, a small desk pad can still provide a frame while letting your desk remain center stage.
At this point you should be done measuring and can move on to materials.
At this point you should be done measuring and can move on to materials.
What Material Should I Get?
We’re going to guess you spend a lot of time in your workspace. A lot of time touching the surface and resting your wrists on it, even if you’re not supposed to. A lot of time tapping out the beat to those tunes. A lot of time staring blankly at it. That’s a lot of time. The material you choose for your desk pad can make all the difference.
What Are Natural Options?
Leather. Animal leather can have a rich, textured feel and will last a long time, especially if it’s vegetable tanned (see our post on leather). It also develops a patina over time, so a leather desk mat is nice to look at when you buy it and even nicer later.
![](https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-leather-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=200&s=c927a5769fc5ea353eeb1b7dd6872c31 200w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-leather-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=300&s=5d78524bf936a47890922edc6406ece3 300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-leather-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=500&s=ab9ae45eb8ca16ee001d3f5e1709c2bc 500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-leather-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=700&s=5eab97c15e294bc26d1f0370c10f42bc 700w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-leather-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=900&s=1982f418f7f7721e576630dd19a3c6f5 900w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-leather-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1100&s=c306c9fa37713345ff059308688d857b 1100w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-leather-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1300&s=8013ec0bb87c328a72c1cd6610593057 1300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-leather-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1500&s=43355e15877e5f7fbfc191e5afec3728 1500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-leather-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1800&s=f77c54d78918614b568feeb1ee3e27f8 1800w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-leather-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2250&s=24188a7f27a70d63bcffdf40020c26ba 2250w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-leather-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2500&s=15018acb935bfe7c32b6277505cdfc19 2500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-leather-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=3000&s=07b9e31b8d7e6599e0b2e2e5388f5541 3000w)
Felt wool. We’re biased here, but we love our felt desk mat. True, it can be too soft to write on. Lower quality or synthetic wools can be scratchy to some users. And yet it brings a soft warmth to your space. It’s also easy to roll or fold up and still will lay flat when you set it down. In fact, our lead designer, Sean, folds his like a taco, slides it into a tote bag, and voila! he has both an iPad sleeve and a convenient way to carry his desk pad. So you see, wool is cool. Check out our deep dive on the material here.
![](https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-wool-felt-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=200&s=a074840fce2cd107381f95db61cdfc30 200w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-wool-felt-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=300&s=7ba8221f78e1ae616fe08c27711f2ecc 300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-wool-felt-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=500&s=b2e394e55fbd81f4dfc6457966398679 500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-wool-felt-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=700&s=c88865eb2100593e13fe3b6b0ee94483 700w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-wool-felt-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=900&s=4a39e082a4bbc3796fc9c8058fc7ce35 900w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-wool-felt-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1100&s=40addeaae5dddcd248f2ac0f97886c70 1100w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-wool-felt-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1300&s=753793b78a0f511908590800b7089f22 1300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-wool-felt-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1500&s=dfdfd2cd1535973f4ea13ec404b4de06 1500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-wool-felt-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1800&s=351a737cab7e9608001018e6b485b6d4 1800w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-wool-felt-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2250&s=4a69998a740bd9fa30f64f9177b828f0 2250w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-wool-felt-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2500&s=00b48a6c2d1ac33dad3f361f8c1841b6 2500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-wool-felt-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=3000&s=d0077a7df819bb055e5712f07458b0e0 3000w)
Linoleum. We mean real linoleum, made from Linseed oil, not the PVC material that’s commonly called linoleum. The real one is natural, smooth, durable, protective, and fingerprint- and static-resistant. It feels premium, and costs less than animal leather.
![](https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-linoleum-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=200&s=d2606f9ef4b990780d1fbd578aece95b 200w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-linoleum-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=300&s=216a4bfae3110f214bf050ee99c3f056 300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-linoleum-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=500&s=c08ae2bc6f9caf82a7c24431926286fc 500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-linoleum-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=700&s=44b479e2a6af6cdb3ae3c49791759aae 700w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-linoleum-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=900&s=6373c31b2ceeec766c6df9f59860a8f3 900w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-linoleum-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1100&s=3709da0fb5869b42291e8baf587e07a0 1100w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-linoleum-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1300&s=c368e3fdeae09db08ea57f2c5d3fe458 1300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-linoleum-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1500&s=51b73d95ce71f3e491988f826e20ee74 1500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-linoleum-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1800&s=74e84415daf43b83735ef0d3c92a9546 1800w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-linoleum-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2250&s=64192ace3638656b63ba48b0c107dc7c 2250w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-linoleum-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2500&s=56d151df6e7bd28ec59eddcb8a7dda7e 2500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-linoleum-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=3000&s=cbf969ebaa66f51749abe4978de5bb25 3000w)
Tempered glass. Clear, cool and smooth. If you’re looking for sleek durability that’s easy to clean, glass could be the way to go. Of course you might also have a lot more smudges to deal with, and a lot less cushion. As in none.
![](https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-glass-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=200&s=0cd357996794561b50e2985f31dbe5c7 200w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-glass-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=300&s=e8de43eda2e6fc09b7cbf772bcee0a31 300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-glass-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=500&s=18009161c793118ee7856abf0d664e57 500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-glass-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=700&s=d9a1596094ef147e71eca2408d795dad 700w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-glass-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=900&s=4b469f194ba7eecb3b1667c700147f8b 900w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-glass-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1100&s=f5a5523acbdb508bbebf30ac5f9d3934 1100w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-glass-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1300&s=91a1d172d95febf03d4e755803d9f520 1300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-glass-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1500&s=426fb3ea17807571cbefe4978a88cc52 1500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-glass-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1800&s=c0bd87e869d9b6841ed8023ae1761e33 1800w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-glass-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2250&s=04cc2aa0f908ea019fe5f2017d58687c 2250w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-glass-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2500&s=594a4678d06b42d3026777982a7e7f17 2500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-glass-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=3000&s=5f6a62b248ac4aed4bf0b396be89de80 3000w)
Synthetic versus Natural Leather
Vegan leather, or faux leather, comes in polyurethane (PU) and PVC versions, though PU leather currently has a reputation for being generally safer than the PVC (due to potentially toxic chemical components of some PVCs). Though it might not last as long as a high quality animal leather, vegan leather costs less, is easy to clean and is still durable.
What About Other Synthetic Options?
Polycarbonate (strongest, most premium), polyurethane, PET and PVC (most basic). These materials are durable, heat-resistant, easy to clean and relatively inexpensive. Some offer antimicrobial and anti-static properties. You can also go for a clear option, which is neat if you want to see your desk surface or keep papers visible but tucked away. Companies like Floortex sell a range of synthetic styles, including “non-toxic” and “phthalate-free” PVC options.
![](https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-pc-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=200&s=09fb84024eeec3e8bd02f26f81b068bf 200w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-pc-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=300&s=35d0b106e8b7bf26c6eaee623661015f 300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-pc-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=500&s=2dc3b56dcf245656150fade083299879 500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-pc-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=700&s=82b52d4e232aa898d7a6402a2e0eabef 700w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-pc-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=900&s=f60c4b09ff910f63c7363b5b46f21525 900w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-pc-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1100&s=9d8adf58e247de33175aadda6cddab7b 1100w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-pc-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1300&s=1e33d1e2ebf0ae6a109e73125f0ae3ee 1300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-pc-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1500&s=05ce0e80695d2059a67ebfb98b272403 1500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-pc-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1800&s=6bba68baa62070e38bbc35d1d0d9e799 1800w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-pc-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2250&s=81fd4382a0b48ff2d2fd53e5875c06a3 2250w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-pc-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2500&s=b25a223cebbf2929115c5418a566e21d 2500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fillustration-pc-icon-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=3000&s=c8440e223fabb727e889016204cbfbd4 3000w)
When you’re deciding between these options, think about this: every touch, every glimpse could bring a spark of happiness. Which brings us back to Sean, who famously once said of his desk pad:
![](https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=200&s=39e7aebb92f3cfd2a534da1e6beaa1a9 200w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=300&s=477ecbeaf2d21e5d3d4b5e07240ad7dd 300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=500&s=a968a466bb944793aa8b7a2e779be57c 500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=700&s=b8a91b1ced5a505348963b2416a498ad 700w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=900&s=8c3deb511eeb08a7b895e4059f6c3185 900w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1100&s=bbf93f44f78be1911b5371bac2728287 1100w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1300&s=27e47cbcc71867f668094dd9d326ad94 1300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1500&s=86da8ee049a9d32f6b7baacac71f9627 1500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1800&s=c34184559327f13b8bf647bfc0e28bbb 1800w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2250&s=ea3603773151a023ecd66be02d151115 2250w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2500&s=83699d435401b43ca7ff7fb0d97bfc2d 2500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=3000&s=2a65bca8d31babed82e3e4d79d309ca1 3000w)
“It just makes me happy. I want to lay down on it.”
SEAN KELLY
Lead Product Designer
The desk pad, much like Sean himself, brings good vibes. Things you can’t measure in dimensions and weight and texture but that totally drive your experience of a space. We’ve realized that the physical boundaries of a desk pad carry over into our mental space.
Remember the force field? Here’s what we mean: clutter cannot enter our desk pads. We’ll have things piled up and scattered all around it—magazines, coasters, toy rhinos, sticky notes—but on the pad itself, everything is crisp, tidy, perfectly organized. We arrange things to follow the lines of the pad. We space things out to fit the frame it provides. We smile when we take a minute to notice the contrast it brings to our desks. And, when it is not there, we feel lost and miserable.
This is really why we are desk pad believers. It’s a quiet product that revolutionizes your work space and makes it a place you love coming to, day after day.
Remember the force field? Here’s what we mean: clutter cannot enter our desk pads. We’ll have things piled up and scattered all around it—magazines, coasters, toy rhinos, sticky notes—but on the pad itself, everything is crisp, tidy, perfectly organized. We arrange things to follow the lines of the pad. We space things out to fit the frame it provides. We smile when we take a minute to notice the contrast it brings to our desks. And, when it is not there, we feel lost and miserable.
This is really why we are desk pad believers. It’s a quiet product that revolutionizes your work space and makes it a place you love coming to, day after day.
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