My cutting table consists of 2 2 drawer filing cabinets I got at a garage sale, a 2x4 spacer unit hubby built and all topped with a sliding closet door I bought at 2nd hand store. The whole unit cost less than $50.00. As for height, that depends on your height. Check around for places that have cutting tables (an excuse to go to your LQSs) and find which height feels the best for you.