workbench padding, instrument cradling and protection for delicate work

[mambo4]

I've determined that I want to learn fret work. My workbench is bare pine at the moment, I want to be sure to secure and protect any instrument.
What do you all do protect and cradle instruments for delicate work?
What do I need to watch out for and guard against?
What sort of affordable DIY solutions have you come up with?

 

[Level5wizard]

I've seen people spend lots of money on padding or bench covers to some people just using old beach towels. I have some old soft mat stuff from my kids play room floor.

 

[UntitledProject]

I've used bath mats. Not the shag stuff, but the soft ones with the rubber bottoms. They won't scratch anything and they don't slide around on bench tops. Plus they can be laundered from time to time.

 

[ahbass2500]

My workspace is not dedicated to guitar setup. As a result, I use this: Premium Work Station - Mat and Neck Support for Guitar, Bass and other String Instruments - MusicNomad - Music Nomad

 

[Gilmourisgod]

I use these cheap "anti-fatigue floor matts" from Harbor Freight. The edges are puzzle-cut to lock together for larger areas. They have a rough side with some dimples for traction and a smooth side, I usually use them smooth side up because it's easy to sweep or vacuum dust or debris off them. I see a lot of people use old carpet remnants, but stuff can get down in the weave in carpet, and scratch the hell out of the wood. I just use a home-made cradle lined with cork for supporting necks. You can buy that in sheets on Amazon, but it doesn't hold up as well as the HF matts. The photo shows the matts rough side up, guess I was lazy that day.

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[lestratele]

I use a yoga mat on the bench and a piece of a large pool noodle for a neck rest. Works great for my occasional needs.

 

[fhm555]

If you have a nearby Uhaul, they usually sell new and used quilted moving pads/blankets. They make excellent pads for guitar/bass work.
That said, I have an old fluffy beach towel I use on my workbench when I’m working on my basses. It lives in a drawer of my toolbox so it’s always handy if I need to tinker on my basses.

 

[mambo4]

If you have a nearby Uhaul, they usually sell new and used quilted moving pads/blankets.

I actually have a moving blanket left in my garage! great suggestion

 

[fhm555]

I actually have a moving blanket left in my garage! great suggestion

Make sure the fabric is not too stiff. No matter what i've got for a pad I still work on a towel. Screws and other assorted stuff won't bounce or roll on a towel, so no screws or tools on the floor.

 

[Major Seven]

I went all out using the packing wrap from a Glarry I bought and the styrofoam neck support from the same box.