If your doing what I think with the dimes, The JA Michell clamp used a felt washer that goes over the spindle. Should work with the VPI.
20 cents
For all those with VPI turntables that use stainless/steel spindle clamp......put 2 dimes on the (classic) platter - position the heads facing the spindle - close, but not touching the spindle...put the record on, then the clamp, then periphery clamp......