A good ESD work surface is conductive, but not too conductive. ?That way it maintains equipotential between your work, your wrist strap, and your iron, but any inadvertent discharge that does occur is dissipated slowly and safely. ?I like these cheap conductive cardboard mats from Desco--they're intended to be disposable for industrial use, but last forever at home and take soldering heat well. ?The one in the photo was about $10 from Newark here in the US.
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Scott
