I'm setting up a new workshop in a large spare room in our house, and I have the space to set up an old kitchen table to use for pattern making & cutting on larger projects. 
The idea I have is to cover the table with a heavy duty rubber mat, both for its non-slip properties, and so as not to damage the table surface - something like this: 
http://slip-not.co.u...-Linear-Meter-C 
Is this a viable option, and if so, what thickness should I go for? If it's not a good idea, is there an alternative covering I can use?