An old student desk was my sewing area for many years. I set the machine on top of it and sat on a pillow to raise me to the right height. Now I have a separate table for my sewing machine with a recessed area, but I still use the old desk for cutting and also as a desk. I just bought some risers that I will put under the desk legs so cutting will be easier on my back. I love the drawers, though. They hold most of what I need for quilting.