I helped a neighbor clean out the home of an elderly couple. Among the things we found, was a home made ironing board. It was a table leaf that had been wrapped and wrapped again in lots of newspaper. Then it was covered with several layers of fabric. That thing was solid! and worked on a table top. Even a left over board from construction could be wrapped and used along side a sewing machine. I used it for years, then when I unwrapped it, out of curiosity, the newpaper dates were back to the 30's. That had been in use a long time, as this lady died in the 80's.

Be creative!

June in Cincinnati

I made mine from a 1" thick board that is 18"x36". It fits right on a 2'x4' conference table by my sewing machine table. You could make yours any size that is best for you. I covered mine with an old piece of blanket cut tocover whole surface and reach around to the back of the board so you can staple it securely. Then cover with heavy cotton canvas (this fabric helps anchor your fabric as you iron). you can draw grid lines on it with a Sharpie if you'd like.

It does get dirty-looking after a while, but you just put on new canvas. It has worked great for me. Hope this helps :)

I found one of those regular small ironing boards for $1. took the legs off it and use it beside my sewing machine on the banquet table I use for cutting and basting. The only time I use the big one is when I need to do big pieces. For class I have one of those Oh shoot I forget what it is called, but you put your mat, ruler and whatever else you would need for class or whatever. It has a pressing sheet inside that I use to take where ever I need a ironing board. Its made of fabric, but can be thrown on a table and used there, I wouldn't recommend you use a real hot iron, but it works well for pressing seams when there is no ironing board around. It is padded so works well. I love it

Rita

I have only the small ironing board for table top. It's nice and all, but it isn't big enough for my needs. It's the only one I have.

I made a LARGE ironing board not too long ago. But, when it's small pieces that I'm pressing, I think that the college dorm version of the ironing board works best. Most larger stores like Wally World, KMart Etc have them. Just a dormitory ironing board. Some hang on closet doors, others have little legs that fold up.

I have a regular size ironing board, but I hate dragging it out. SO, I use a ironing pad that you lay on the table and a cordless iron. These are two of my best friends. I love them. I do occasionally pull out the big one when I have to iron clothes. LOL