I love this mat. I purchased one last weekend when attending a crop and used it for the first time. I'm seriously considering buying a second so I will be able to layout 2 page layouts with ease. I like being able to position embellishments, including ribbon and ric rac so I can see how it will look before adhering it down.
I do think this mat needs a warning label attached though........if you happen to have magnetic mammeries (aka, wear a wire bra!) your magnets WILL disappear on occasion. If you lean over your layout a little too closely the magnets tend to disappear. If you are at a cropper and one of your fellow croppers sitting across the table happens to see them before you realize they have repositioned themselves on your being, you will be the punchline of a few jokes and the cause of memories that will last forever!!
All in all, I love this mat and it is well worth the purchase price.