Here is a tutorial to make your own Big Board:
thequilter.blogspot.com/2008/big-board-tutorial.html
Pay special attention to the underside. You do not want to eliminate the wood frame underneith that holds the Big Board snug to your standard ironing board.
OR, if you are not good with "man tools" (like me), you can order one made out of birchwood at:
allbrands.com
This Big Board expands your ironing service to 22" X 59". This site offers free shipping in continental US. I think Nancy's notons sells it, too, but you'd have to pay shipping if you ordered from them.
No, I'm not in the business of promoting the Big Board. Just trying to help out. I've made alot of foolish purchases in my years of quilting, but this has proven to be one of the best investments I've made beside my Pffaf and Bernina:-)
Originally Posted by Jo Belmont
For that kind of money, get yourself a piece of plywood (usually cut free at the home supply) big enough to fit on top of one of those $40 fold-up WalMart tables. Then, invest in a set of 3/5/8" risers (again from WM) and get the height and sturdiness you want.
Line ironing side of the board with aluminum foil and start with your batting layers (over the edge too), cover, and you're on your way.
I sew apparel as well and simply use (make my own) dressmaker's ham and/or padded tubes for those curved seams and smaller areas that need a special pressing during construction.
All in all, by the time you pay the $70-odd bucks, tax and shipping (or gas to get it), you're coming out about the same and you'll be lots, lots happier with the bigger set-up.
:) :)