Noeprene rubber is what's used for the Martin style guitar mats. I bought a huge roll of it a few years ago from some company in Michigan maybe? It was enough for about a dozen mats. They sell many different thicknesses and grades, with a price that averages out to about $3 a mat.
I'm currently using up the last of mine for a few Stu Mac neck jigs with a much safer work board. I'll post some pics soon when they're done.