Sewing machine set into or on top of table?
 

Hello, all. We're moving in about six months and, theoretically, I'll have a quilting room. Right now my machine is set up on a 6' folding table and it's fine. I don't have a wheelie chair so I mostly stay where I am, pushing my machine back to pin pieces together and then pulling it toward me again to sew. We were going to sell our office desk until I realized it would be perfect for the sewing machine - it's a lovely, big solid wood desk. The desk has a pull out keyboard drawer that's set at the perfect height that I can cut a hole in the desk and set the sewing machine in the keyboard tray, modifying it to make the drawer secure of course.

And here's the question. I move my machine around a lot, but I think that's because my chair doesn't have wheels and it's not easy to slide down the table a couple feet to do pinning. Would you prefer your machine inset or on top of your sewing table, and why? I can definitely see how it would help with FMQ. Thoughts?
thanks!

The only time I raise mine up to the top is when I attach the embroidery unit. Otherwise, I always prefer it down so that the needle plate is flush with the table. I have an acrylic plate that fits around my machine so everything is flat and smooth.

It's easier on my shoulders when it's inset into a table.

I like my inset also for the same reasons as above.

setting into the desk flush would be best for your shoulders. I would go to goodwill or thrift store to find a office chair with wheels. would be better than push pull machine.

I like it set in it is too high if on top use that only when doing a sleeve or somethin that requires a free arm. You really need it set level if you are quilting

I am short and I would prefer to have my machine in a lower position. I think the "rule" would be to sit in the chair that you choose, place your feet on the floor, and they should be flat, then the machine should be in line with your elbows. Put your arms in a position where you are bending the elbow, with your hands reaching out. Now the machine should be the right height so it does not put pressure on your shoulders or back. I believe those doctors who studied this position also
prefer it. I would recommend an office chair with a good back and seat. Some are less then $50 and you can adjust the height. It is a good investment. Good luck in your move and setting up your room. Send us pics.

I would love to have my machine set into my desk, but unfortunately I'm unable to do this, one of the reasons I don't, is because I have several machines, and if I have the opening cut out for my big Elna, then when/if I use one of the other machines, they would rattle around in that big opening. Personally, one of the first things I would do, would be to get a comfortable chair, that you can adjust the height and that is on wheels.

I find that I prefer to use my machines that are in cabinets.

Thanks everyone! Now where'd I put that jigsaw? IN the desk it is! And believe me, there is definitely a comfy chair with wheels in my future! Thanks!