Buy a plain desk blotter to protect your desk

You don't have to spend a lot of money for a desk pad that does what it's supposed to and still looks good.

I recommend: Check out the Rhinolin desk pad at CleanSweepSupply or the Rhinolin desk pad with privacy cover at The Betty Mills Company that allows you to keep papers you're working with out of others' view. You should also take a look at the wood-tone desk pad at iBuyOfficeSupply or consider wholesale desk pads like the clear vinyl one at Costco.

Order custom desk pads that are multifunctional

Today's desk pads make great multifunctional tools that go beyond protecting your desk and providing comfort for writing

I recommend: The On Time Supply desk pad with leatherette corners holds 25 sheets of paper that let you doodle while on the phone or take important notes you don't want to lose. Buy the desk pad calendar from Staples to keep appointment dates and times in view while you're working at your desk; or order an inspirational calendar desk pad with space for writing notes at Iteminfo.com. On the pricey side, the custom leather desk pad at Levenger folds out to reveal pockets for business cards and 3x5 note cards.

Make a statement with high-end, executive desk pads

Manufacturers make pricey executive desk pads in hopes you won't cover them up with lots of papers and files. They want you to impress important clients with their leather desk pads and matching leather desk accessories. These customized desk pads will provide you with years of functionality, beauty and assistance in keeping a clean desk.

I recommend: Consider beautiful personalized desk pads like the rosewood and leather one from The Elegant Office. If you like custom desk pads, purchase the crocodile leather desk pad from Leather Tree. With so many options for customized desk pads, consider DeskSetShop's leather desk pad with a top rail to hold a calendar and while there, you can order accessories to match. If you enjoy writing with a fountain pen and would like an elegant desk pad, take a look at the combination executive desk pad and ink stand at Al-Matt.