My cats get jealous of the attention I give a quilt, and so want to be in the thick of things when I work on one. There are also all those neat play toys, like thread, pins, bobbins, and things to test gravity, like pencils and scissors. The ironing board is a wonderful place to rest, especially after it has been used.
When my cats were younger I'd have to use my rotary cutter when they napped! Almost trimmed claws inadvertantly once!
Gotta love 'em!