I have the same problem when I'm quilting a large quilt. I have to do it in my family room which has heavy carpeting. I've tried several different things but what has worked awesomely well is a 2 x 8 sheet of 3/4" plywood. I set my machine on a "personal" table (available at Office Max / Walmart or wherever). I use a roller "secretary's chair" and just have a wastebasket immediately handy. Works super well. When I'm done with the large quilting project I just take the plywood back out to the garage. If you want something "prettier" you could get laminate flooring that snaps together and your hubby (or you) could build a frame around it if your setup for sewing is to be more permanent. Good luck!!