new writing surface for an old roll top desk

[Zane Harris]

I have an old roll top desk that I inherited from my father. Most of my life it had a hard green rubber writing surface inlaid into the top, but about twenty years ago the desk went through a flood and the rubber writing surface was lost during the restoration. It was replaced with a piece of vinyl upholstery. That has since not worn well, and I would like to replace it with a hard rubber writing surface again. Any suggestions where I could find this material? The dimensions I would need are approximately 48 x 30 inches. TIA.

[Lonnie Gallaher]

My first thought would be the rubber mats that are used on drafting tables. I know they are still available as I was looking into buying one.

[Dave Verstraete]

My first thought would be the rubber mats that are used on drafting tables. I know they are still available as I was looking into buying one.

X2 The old drafting tables had the same material.

[jerry cousins]

check with architect supply stores - they should have it in rolls
jerry

[Mel Fulks]

I think that it was probably genuine linoleum but if you can't find it the newer materials will work.

[Zane Harris]

I had not thought of the linoleum approach. That gives a lot more color options.

I think that it was probably genuine linoleum but if you can't find it the newer materials will work.

[Lud martinson]

Ditto with jerry's reply. An art supply store may have the same as well. I believe I've seen something similar in the local drafting shop.

[Lonnie Gallaher]

The linoleum comment reminded me of a product I have seen spec'd on some projects. It is called Marmoleum. It is the new linoleum.