If I'm not just soldering on the mat, I use a PanaVise system I've put together.
301315376For a base, I use a ~1ft square x 3/8" thick steel plate (rather heavy). All that was needed was to drill 3 holes, paint it, and add adhesive backed rubber feet. The steel came from a welding/fabrication shop (scrap pile), and they sold it to me cheap (~$6 IIRC).
I like the wide range of motion and multiple heads to do whatever it is I'm futzing around with. No, they're not cheap, but they're not going to fall apart any time soon.
* There are longer cross bars if you need them at some point (up to 30").In your case, you could take a look at the
220 PV Jr. Mini Circuit Board Holder as it will meet your stated needs (good for PCB's up to 4.5" wide), and it's less money than the 324. If you plan on working your way up to larger boards however, you'd want to go with either the 324 or
350 (324 + base).
220 PV Jr. Mini Circuit Board Holder350