If you’re punching holes in Textiles – especially when using leather – please use the large black rubber pad we have available in the space. It will both absorb the force of the punch and protect the work surface.
For example, this is what happens to our cutting mats if a pad is not used:
The damage isn’t huge, but it does prematurely wear out our mats. It also produces a texture on the mat which could scratch someone’s materials.
The pad we have available is typically located on the marble slab which rests on the leatherworking cart:
In fact, the marble slab is an excellent surface to use under the pad when punching holes. The pad absorbs the impact and protects the tips of your tools, while the slab provides a great deal of stability.