I prefer the cork side to be facing the disc and the damping side on the platter but sometimes depending on the turntable and on the rest of your system its tonal balance etc it could be better.
How to make a cork turntable mat.
They are heavier than cork mats but have a firmer grip on the platter.
Here i make the easiest turntable upgrade from a felt mat to a cork and rubber blend.
I m not sure why felt mats are so common.
It is an age old debate as to which one.
Does using a felt mat or a cork mat on your turntable make a difference to the sound produced by your record player.
Next i will turn a replica spindle with a sharp spike at one end use a piece of smooth mdf as a cutting base.
They are a breeding ground for static.
If the mat matches lp size i will overlay the glass platter on the cork to get approx centre then punch the appropriate diameter spindle hole.