My sewing table has a recessed area for the machines, but the one for my sewing machine is to far back. So I don't use that part of it, I just pull my machine closer to me. Not the best set-up but it works for this short person.

My sewing machine is set down in an old dining room table. The space from my needle to the edge of the table is 9 inches, and to right side of the machine is 5 inches. I need the space in front of the machine so I have someplace to rest my arms and the space to the right is for my pincushion, small scissors, ripper and of course my tv remote.

I've often wished my machine was further back in the cabinet - particularly when quilting. If you do a lot of FMQ, set it a little further back maybe just a couple of inches than you normally would.