Question: I have an [IKEA desk](https://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/S49932175/#/S59133593) with a subtle fake wood grain paint layer (black) on the surface. The paint in the area that my mouse moves has worn away leaving a shiny textureless surface that the laser mouse doesn't detect. 

What's the simplest, cheapest, most effective way to re-surface that region (or the whole desk)?

I don't like mouse mats. I'm thinking wallpaper or paint, but I don't know what types of paint will provide the surface required for the laser mouse to accurately detect movement.

Answer: 
Shelf liner (contact paper). Cut it into an oversize mouse pad shape with rounded corners and stick it down. You want it large enough that you aren't snagging the edge with your arm, keyboard, etc. It'll feel like nothing but give your mouse a better view. 

You could use black so it's not so conspicuous, but a bold color pattern might be spiffy. Change it out when it gets polished or worn.
Rub the area with 000 or 0000 steel wool to bring back some subtle texture. It won't be possibly lumpy or uneven like paint, and you can easily texture the affected area only. This is a far cheaper solution in terms of money and time than paint.