I have one that is felt, and a velour one. The velour one is much nicer imo. The pad is like a really soft mouse pad. I made my large one using velvet fabric for the top and some of the foam lining that is used in car roofs. I went to a shop that installs that and asked for a large piece of scrap and they were very generous and gave it to me for free.
I appreciate the link, a lot of info . I thought about putting a border around mine so when I sail cards while practicing they don't fly off the table...