One reviewer actually gave this product a 1 one star rating based on the fact that it consists of an inflatable tube that is "sure to pop" and straps that are "bound to get lost" and the felt mat that comes folded and will not lie flat. The reviewer is right - this product includes a felt mat that is folded, a blow up tube and straps that are not attached to the felt or the tube. It is for these exact reasons that I give this product a 5-star rating. Here's why: 1. The inflatable tube is a genius idea. Yes, it's true, it may pop - if you use it like a blow-up light saber. But don't worry - it's made of durable plastic, much like a pool float. The inflatable idea is actually a plus - not a minus. You can control the firmness of the tube based on how much air you add. For puzzles with larger pieces, you don't want too rigid a cylinder, because your pieces will be bent. Because it is deflatable, it can be stored in a much smaller space than, say, a cardboard tube of the same dimensions. Also, being able to fit into a smaller box helps keeps the cost of this item down. Larger packages = higher price for the customer. 2. Yes, the felt was folded (and creased) when we received it. Again, being able to be folded into a smaller container helps to keep the price down. And as another reviewer mention, you can iron it. Over time, it will eventually flatten on its own. However, I'm not too concerned about that as we refold it for storage when not in use. Again, I'm glad to have something that will fit into a small space. 3. And finally, that's right, the straps are not attached. Are you afraid you might loose the straps? Honestly, if you are scared off by the possibility of loosing track of small objects, then I don't think that puzzling is the pastime for you. However, in my assessment, the fact that the straps are not attached it a plus, not a minus. Why? This offers maximum flexibility. First, it's important to be able to completely remove the tube and the straps so that they can be placed elsewhere and not take up space on the table (or, worse yet, hang off the edge of the table and pull the entire felt sheet and your puzzling work to the floor)! It also means that you can put the straps as close together or far apart, and as close to or far away from the ends of the tube, as you choose, based on the size of your puzzle. This is meant to be a simple, inexpensive solution to help you work on your puzzle and then remove it from the dinner table when it's time to eat ... or play a board game. It's not water proof. It will not withstand nuclear blasts. And if you carry it under your arm like a loaf of french bread, you'll probably drop puzzle pieces like Hansel and Gretel leaving a trail of breadcrumbs. But if you just want a way to move your puzzle aside with relatively little disruption, this is the answer! P.S. Before I purchased this, I looked into making a puzzle mat on my own out of PVC and felt. It actually would have been more expensive (and used up more of my time) than ordering this from Amazon. Don't expect miracles. But do expect a good product for the price! :-)
