The tables I've seen are around 28" to 32". The sewing cabinet that my DH is making is 29". But I think it really depends on your table and your chair. If both are adjustable then the only other thing would be your height. You could adjust the table in chair but if you can't reach the foot pedal then you are SOL as they say. That wold be my problem. I am vertically challenged.

When I got my new table and chair I made sure that I could have my arms at right angles like Dolphyngirl posted. Well after about an hour my back and arms were killing. I lowered my chair to how it was with my makeshift desk/table I used to use and now I can sew for hours with no pain. I guess that rule doesn't work with me.

You quilters are the best. My son can build me a lifter. I knew I could find the answers here.