KenmoreGal2

I think I need a revamp. Currently I have a 2' x 4' piece of plywood over sawhorses. The size is perfect for my 24" x 36" cutting mat. However the sawhorses make the table too low and if I cut too much, my back hurts. I've read it should really be 36" high, like my kitchen counters.

A couple of caveats. Due to lack of space I have to keep my table in front of a set of drawers which I occasionally need to access. Right now shifting the top off the sawhorses is pretty easy. I don't even have to lift it up, just slide it to one side.

One option I've been looking at is a wheeled cart. Then I can move it easily to access the drawers. But so far the more reasonably priced ones are no where near the size I need on the top.

I found a table that is 2' x 4' (perfect size!) on Amazon. The height is adjustable and can go to 36". It's only $40. However, this table has become less appealing since I thought of using a cart with wheels because it would be harder to move. Plus the carts have bins to store things underneath.

Last, I use this table to pin my borders on and do some prep work. In those instances it's nice that it's low because I just pull up a chair and sit down. Any advice on how to do these tasks with a 36" high table? Bar stool maybe?

Please tell me what you have and how it works for you. Thanks!!

NJ Quilter

First I would suggest rather than go with the standard, generic, recommended height of anything, do a bit of research on ergonomics. Ideally, you want your 'working' height to be the distance from your bent elbow to the ground if I am not mistaken.

Not that that is the configuration I have, mind you! I'd be wary of something on wheels due to lack of stability. They would have to have some very positive locking mechanism before I would consider a wheeled anything.

If you could find, perhaps, a low-cost/free smallish bedroom dresser? Put locking wheels on yourself (Lowes/Home Depot carry these) you would get additional storage as well. See if your current bedroom dresser is a more comfortable working height for you than your kitchen counter. I have issues rolling cookie dough, for example, at standard kitchen counter height because I'm short so I know that would not be a comfortable cutting height for me.

I have one of the tables similar to what JAF carries that the two sides fold down and is only about 12" wide when sides are folded. It is wheeled but I have it on carpet. Can not tell you at the moment if the wheels lock or not but I think they do. I like the size of the table when extended and use for cutting; ironing (with just towels on top); pinning borders; basting quilts. Height is not ideal for me but it's workable.

KenmoreGal2

Thanks. A quick google search for "ideal height of cutting table" brings me right back here, to the QB. (I don't know about you, but I find QB articles much easier using google than the QB search feature.)

Here's a link.
http://www.quiltingboard.com/main-f1...e-t170778.html

This is a good place to start my research. I'd still like to hear what great ideas you all have come up with for your cutting tables!

zozee

I have a bona fide Joann craft table I bought. But I have the space. Are the drawers that you mentioned in a dresser that's a height you want? Could you put a piece of wood on top and secure it somehow to prevent slipping? You'd want some overhang so you can put your feet under.

KenmoreGal2

Thanks for your help.

The drawers are in a metal cabinet. I have another shelving unit on top of that holding a lot of fabric. So the top is already spoken for. Darn.

Geri B

Can you somehow reconfigure the area so the table would not be in front of the drawers?

Gramie bj

Lower kitchen cabinet (can be found at recycle stores) add rolling casters ( would use the kind that lock). place your wood on top. Gives more storage under table, easy to move. I have a stool on casters that I cut down to the right height for sitting at my cutting/craft table (got it from a recycle store)

KenmoreGal2

To answer both questions - space is tight. I can't move the drawers. I was considering a lower kitchen cabinet. Good idea!

yel

if it was me i would go to walmart .home depot or the local big lots and get 2 of the small 3 shelf bookcases and reuse the plywood i already have ....try it that way ...i am a little bit taller than most so i got a few 2x6's and built a base for the bookcases to set on ...perfect height for me and bonus extra storage

yel

a bathroom cabinet is a bit shorter than most kitchen cabinets