Most people will undoubtedly think that all printed mouse mats are more or less the same. However, the opposite is true?there are lots of different options for mouse mats, in terms of textiles, shapes, colors, and added functions that make these items more useful. Here's a short guide to the different choices you'll face when choosing your mouse mats.

Textiles?Foam, PVC, Rubber, Plastic

For the most part, the choice you make in terms of textiles is related to how much you are willing to spend per item. The least expensive printed mouse mats are typically made from a foam rubber base, bonded to a fabric-style surface. Hard top mouse mats that provide a highly precise mousing surface are usually made from synthetic materials such as plastic and PVC. These also provide the advantage of providing durable mouse mats that are very easy to clean.

A Wide Range of Color Options

There is really no limit to your color options?you can choose as many or as few colors as you like. The price of most printed mouse mats includes the cost of a single color printed design (with additional print colors available for a small extra charge), while a few are inclusive of the cost of a full color design.

For really bright and vibrantly colorful promotional printed mouse mats, choose items such as the Metallic Luster and DuSoft mats. These are created using innovative print processes that produce exceptionally strong, clear colors. The Metallic Luster mats also add a shimmering gold or silver sheen to the surface of each mat, creating a spectacularly colorful effect. Another great option is the Liquid Aqua mat?these feature a flat interior pocket that holds differently-colored non-mixing liquids that move around when pressed to create an ever-changing display of bright colors.

Choose your Shape'or Create your Own!

All mouse mat styles allow you to customize the mat with your choice of colors, text and images. Some also allow you a few choices in terms of shape, such as ovals and circles in addition to the standard square shape. However, if you really want to create a completely customized mouse mat, you can choose your own shape. This is a great way of creating mats that complement the theme of your business?for example, a company in the IT industry can choose computer shaped mats, while a pet store could create a mat in the shape of a cat or dog face.

Mouse Mats with Added Functions and Extra Features

Choosing promotional printed mouse mats with additional functions can be a great way of making sure that the recipients of your mats use them over any others they might already own. There are some great options to choose from?mouse mats with integrated calculators or business card holders, mats that double as CD-ROM holders, and even mats that double as greeting or invitation cards?either of which can be a great way to invite people to a conference or other industry event. Another excellent option is mouse mats with integrated wrist rests?great for employees who regularly spend long hours working at computers, as these help reduce the potentially painful side-effects of long-term mouse use.