12" x 12" Cork Sheet (1/8" to 3/16" depth for best results (depending on your deck)) - this can be purchased at most craft stores for approximately $3 per sheet. (This sheet was purchased at Michael's)

Hand Clamps

X-acto Knife (sharp)

Masking Tape

Cutting Board

Marker

A record that can be properly abused





Now drink.

Anyhoo, you should be left with a pretty decent mat at this point. So, drink again.

The Results:

Now, I'm a man.

I've been looking into the benefits of using a cork turntable mat (it helps to dampen vibration and can limit the build-up of unwanted static), but was surprised by the cost. Seriously, $20-30? Fuck that.So, I took it upon myself to create my own mat on a budget. Here's a step-by-step breakdown with the fetching results.First, acquire the essentials:Next, clamp your shittiest (unwanted) copy of the Oak Ridge Boys (or Wham!) to the 12" x 12" cork mat, with a cutting board beneath.Now, cut out the center spindle hole portion (later you may have to flip it to cut the other side - this will provide a cleaner opening).Next, simply start at the top (nearest the clamp) and follow the blade along the edge of the record. It's best to make careful straight-down cuts rather than striking quickly over and over. Again, you'll get a cleaner edge.Then, once a full half is complete, carefully remove the clamps and flip the record with the cork so that you can easily cut the remaining two quarters. If you have a smaller cutting board surface you can omit this step.Once all sides have been cut, carefully move the clamps to the side (still clamped down) and X-acto any left-over edges that are evident.Again, you can then flip the cork and place the record on top to remove the spindle hole. I wouldn't recommend drilling the center...that shit will tear up the cork.To clean up the mat, I would advise using masking tape (preferably a roller) and simply dab both sides, as well as along the edges.There you have it. I also threw on a RPM speed sticker from Sleeve City that I pulled from a felt mat, to gussy things up.