Using a computer desk for sewing table? Help!
#21
Super Member
Join Date: Jul 2010
Location: Central Willamette Valley, Oregon, USA
Posts: 7,695

Hey everyone! I need a little help I'm in the process of fixing up a sewing room and can't decide on a sewing table. Me and DH had first decided to build shelves and a table. As most know lumber is really expensive so I'm kind of rethinking that one. I've found some corner computer desks that look like what I want in the first place and I could let DH drop my sewing machine in. I was wondering if anyone else used anything like that for a sewing table and do they hold up good? What's honest opinion on building one vs. using a computer desk? Also I'm sort of on a small budget! Please any help would be appreciated!
#22

I prefer to adapt existing furniture. You can add structural support to counter vibration. I like the furniture section of my local recycle company. It tends to be better quality than thrift store items.
#23
Senior Member
Join Date: Sep 2011
Location: Winston-Salem, North Carolina
Posts: 939

I use a large folding table, the kind you find in a church or library conference room. I can pull it out and move all around it when needed. We have a used office furniture store in my area. Check Goodwill or local thrift stores.
#25

I used those folding light weight tables...they work fine for me...have never had the vibration problem...one day I would love to have one of those fancy koala sewing systems... another dream...
#26
Super Member
Join Date: Sep 2011
Location: Mendocino Coast, CA
Posts: 4,523

We just set up a new sewing/office area for me yesterday. (YEAH!!!!!) It's an L-shaped setup that has a corner section, which I pondered whether to use for sewing, or computing. I think that the computer will go in the corner and the sewing machine will go on one of the "legs" of the set up. It looks like I'll have more room for sewing big quilts this way.
As for the setup itself...they're modular units that you can mix and match. I bought part of these units from Ballard Designs about fifteen years ago. They were originally for our business office. I just recently bought a couple of new sections to create the L shape. Luckily, they still carried the same design. My space is very small and oddly shaped and this solution fit perfectly. Granted, it wasn't a cheap solution, but the furniture is pretty solid and it fit my needs to a T. I figured, get it now, or it shall never be, so I went for it. Now, I'm in the process of organizing and putting all my stuff away in it.
http://www.ballarddesigns.com/furnit...ollections_oho
~ Cindy
As for the setup itself...they're modular units that you can mix and match. I bought part of these units from Ballard Designs about fifteen years ago. They were originally for our business office. I just recently bought a couple of new sections to create the L shape. Luckily, they still carried the same design. My space is very small and oddly shaped and this solution fit perfectly. Granted, it wasn't a cheap solution, but the furniture is pretty solid and it fit my needs to a T. I figured, get it now, or it shall never be, so I went for it. Now, I'm in the process of organizing and putting all my stuff away in it.
http://www.ballarddesigns.com/furnit...ollections_oho
~ Cindy
Last edited by tropit; 01-30-2015 at 07:33 AM.
#27

My sewing desk was originally a computer desk, it works for me but I don't think a corner desk would work, at least for me it wouldn't. I've been using it for over 10 years, and it held up fine. Have you thought of looking for desks at thrift stores or garage/yard sales?
#28
Senior Member
Join Date: Dec 2012
Location: Northern Ohio
Posts: 445

Eleanor Burns has a link on her site how to make a table from a farm table that are really detailed directions.
http://www.quiltinaday.com/freepatte...asp?file=table
http://www.quiltinaday.com/freepatte...asp?file=table
#29
Super Member
Join Date: Jun 2008
Location: Utah
Posts: 8,839
#30
Senior Member
Join Date: Feb 2007
Location: Westerville, Ohio
Posts: 711

I use an old farm table--sturdy and real wood--bought it from work when we downsized our display pieces for showrooms but please frequent thrift stores and if you have one near you--Habitat for Humanity resale store---if you cannot find a table or desk, they always have lots of wood, table legs, doors, cabinets, etc
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