What is a wargaming mat, and why should I use one?

A wargaming mat (also known as a tabletop wargaming mat or wargame play mat) is a portable surface that transforms any table into a thematic battlefield—whether it's a scorched wasteland, medieval ruins, or a sci-fi base. These mats enhance immersion, protect your table from drink spills, scratches, or dropped dice, and provide a stable surface that improves the flow and atmosphere of any game session. Playing directly on a bare table often feels flat and disconnected; a mat adds visual context that draws players into the world of the game and helps bring terrain and miniatures to life.

Beyond aesthetics, wargaming mats also offer functional advantages. They help prevent terrain from slipping, reduce noise when rolling dice, and minimize the chance of damaging painted models if they tip over. Mats with printed deployment zones or grid markers can even speed up setup and reduce gameplay errors. For players who host games at home, attend tournaments, or travel to clubs, having a reliable mat is an easy way to ensure consistent game quality and a more immersive experience, no matter where you play.

What materials can wargaming mats be made of, and which one suits me best?

Wargaming mats come in a variety of materials, each catering to different needs and budgets. The most common types are cloth or woven fabric, PVC, and neoprene. Each offers a different combination of durability, portability, surface grip, and visual fidelity—so the best choice depends entirely on how and where you play.

1. Cloth or woven fabric materials are lightweight, compact, and typically the most budget-friendly option. They’re easy to roll up and store, don’t retain folds or creases, and are perfect for casual games or travel. However, because they’re lighter, they may shift slightly during play and don’t offer much cushioning. The surface texture can also affect the behavior of the dice if they have not been stretched enough, as wrinkles can form, possibly causing the scenery to not stay in place. In addition, they are more likely to snag on the transport trays for miniatures, rulers, or anything else you put on the table.
2. PVC (polyvinyl chloride) is another affordable option and has the advantage of being fully waterproof and easy to clean—just wipe them down. However, they can suffer from “memory,” meaning once folded or rolled tightly, they may not lie completely flat again. Over time, this can lead to frustrating bumps and curled edges. Additionally, PVC has been scrutinized for health and environmental risks related to its production. It’s made using vinyl chloride monomer (VCM), a substance classified as a carcinogen by major health agencies. In the U.S., the EPA is actively reviewing PVC's use in consumer goods due to concerns over toxicity and environmental persistence, especially when incinerated.
3. Neoprene, also referred to as rubber-backed or “mouse pad-style", is considered the premium choice. They offer exceptional flatness, grip the table well, and provide a slightly cushioned surface that reduces bounce for dice and helps stabilize terrain. These mats use high-resolution sublimated prints on fabric, which means the artwork won’t scratch or fade. On the downside, they are heavier, take up more space when rolled, and come at a higher price point. 

Ultimately, the best wargaming mat for you will depend on your personal priorities and your budget. If you value portability and price, fabric mats are a great start. If you want liquid spill protection but don’t mind dealing with creases, PVC might be sufficient. And if you're after the highest level of durability, stability, and visual quality, neoprene is worth the investment.

Are wargaming mats suitable for all tabletop games?

Definitely. Wargaming mats are designed to be system-agnostic, meaning they can be used with virtually any miniatures game.

They come in a wide range of sizes—from small skirmish boards to full tournament dimensions—so whether you're playing Kill Team on a 22″ × 30″ layout or a full-scale Warhammer 40k battle on a 44″ × 60″ board, there’s a mat to match. Popular games like Infinity, Bolt Action, Star Wars Legion, Marvel Crisis Protocol, and Flames of War all benefit from the enhanced visual and functional qualities that mats provide. Some mats also feature deployment zones or printed gridlines for specific systems, helping speed up setup and ensuring accurate measurements during play.

In addition to format flexibility, wargaming mats offer a vast selection of art styles and thematic settings, from ruined cities and arid deserts to grassy meadows and icy tundras. This allows you to tailor your gaming environment to your army’s background or the story you want to tell.

Playing with a Necron force? A scorched alien battlefield sets the tone. Bringing out WWII troops? A bocage countryside mat adds instant realism. For narrative campaigns or hobbyists with multiple armies, a single versatile mat can serve several different game systems and settings, making it a smart investment for any tabletop gamer.

What is the best way to store or transport a wargame play mat?

The best general rule is to always roll the surface with the printed side facing out. This helps prevent edge curl and protects the design from compression. Use a sturdy cardboard tube, plastic poster container, or dedicated carry bag to shield it from dust and accidental damage. It’s best to store the roll upright in a cool, dry space, away from direct sunlight or heat sources that can cause warping or delamination. If minor curling occurs at the corners, a quick reverse roll or a few minutes under a flat weight (like a book) will usually restore the edges.

When it comes to material-specific care, fabric or cloth-based options are the most forgiving. They're lightweight, flexible, and resist creases well, so rolling them loosely is usually enough. Just avoid folding them, as sharp creases can distort the printed image over time. PVC versions, on the other hand, are more prone to “memory”—once bent or folded, they tend to retain creases, so they should always be rolled carefully and stored in a rigid tube.

For neoprene or rubber-backed types, extra care is needed due to their weight. Roll them tightly with the artwork facing out, and avoid stacking other items on top, as pressure can create dents or edge lift. Rotating the roll direction occasionally also helps prevent long-term curling. Regardless of the material, proper storage and transport habits will keep your game surface flat, vibrant, and ready for action every time.

Warhammer®, Warhammer 40k®, and Blood Bowl® are registered trademarks of Games Workshop Limited. The products offered are not affiliated with, authorized by, or endorsed by Games Workshop. Green Stuff World only manufactures and markets compatible products designed for use with these and other miniature lines.