In the past few months I’ve had to repair my iPhone, my digital camera, and my Macbook Pro. During this time I’ve found the iFixit’s magnetic mat ($20) indispensable. Not only does the magnetic surface mean fewer lost screws, but it’s whiteboard surface means I can keep track of what came from where. Intelligently, iFixit includes a very nice fine-tipped dry-erase marker from Staedtler for quickly jotting down repair notes (that also features a bit of wool on the cap for erasing them, too). The pro model mat, which I own, also features a nonslip foam backing much like that of a mousepad which when flipped upside down features cutouts that act like cups.
I like mine so much that it never leaves my desk as it serves as miniature whiteboard, mousepad, and DIY repair station.
-- Oliver Hulland
[This is a Cool Tools Favorite from 2012]
iFixit Magnetic Project Mat ($20)
Available from Amazon
Sample Excerpts:
