Tako Blog

Understanding Bleed Lines on Custom Mats

Bleed is the small area around the outer edge of a printed product that allows for slight variations during manufacturing. Understanding how bleed works will help you create a design that looks fantastic when printed and avoid any unpleasant surprises when your mat arrives.

Where to Buy Playmats in Australia

Looking for a new playmat for Magic: The Gathering, Pokémon, Yu-Gi-Oh!, One Piece, Gundam Card Game, or your favourite TCG? Here's our guide to the best places to buy playmats in Australia, including the pros and cons of each option.

How to Order a Custom TCG Playmat from Tako Mats (Step-by-Step)

Design your battlefield, your way.This step-by-step guide shows you how to create a custom TCG playmat — from choosing the right image and playmat size to adding overlays and uploading your design. Includes tips on single vs two-player formats, image prep, and what to expect before it ships.

How to Order a Custom Gaming Mousepad from Tako Mats (Step-by-Step)

This step-by-step guide walks you through the entire process — from choosing the perfect image and selecting your size, to uploading your design, approving your mockup, and getting it shipped from Sydney. Whether you’re after comfort, style, or peak performance, this guide has everything you need to bring your setup to life.

Edge Stitching vs No Edge Stitching (Spoiler: Get the Stitching)

Wondering if edge stitching is worth it on your mousepad or playmat? Here’s the short answer: yes. This post breaks down why stitched edges aren’t just a nice-to-have—they’re a must-have for durability, looks, and long-term use.

Why We Started Tako Mats (And Why It Matters)

We didn’t start Tako Mats to chase trends—we started it because we were sick of watching dropship brands take shortcuts. With over 40 years of industry experience, we’re doing it properly. Australian made, designer reviewed, and built for gamers who care.

5 Ideas to Customise Your Gaming Rig (With Price Guide)

Your setup should feel like your setup. From custom mousepads to RGB lighting and cable management, here are five easy ways to personalise your gaming rig—plus what it costs and where to get everything in Australia.

Do You Need a Card Overlay on Your TCG Playmat?

Choosing a card overlay for your playmat depends on your playstyle. Whether you're learning a game or prepping for tournaments, our overlay options for titles like One Piece, Magic, Pokémon and more give your mat structure without sacrificing style.

How to Clean and Care for Your TCG Playmat

Your playmat is part of your identity at the table so treat it like it matters! Whether you play near home or travel to tournaments, this guide covers everything you need to keep your mat looking sharp and feeling smooth, from storage tips to deep cleaning methods that won’t wreck the surface.

How to Clean and Care for Your Gaming Mousepad

A clean mousepad is a fast mousepad. Learn how to properly care for your gaming surface—whether it stays locked to your desk or follows you to LANs. From storage advice to safe washing instructions, this guide keeps your setup dialled in and ready to perform. If you have taken the time to make a custom gaming mousepad, you want it to look its best.

Where to Find the Perfect Image for Your Custom Gaming Mousepad

Want a custom mousepad that actually looks good? This guide breaks down where to find the right image, how to check if it’ll print well, and how our free image cleanup service makes sure your design looks perfect—no Photoshop skills needed.

What Size Custom Gaming Mousepad Should You Get?

Not sure which size mousepad suits your setup? This guide breaks down the Large, XL, and XXL gaming mousepads from Tako Mats—plus the difference between 2mm and 5mm thickness—to help you find the perfect fit for your rig.