Using a computer desk for sewing table? Help!
#1
Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: Jan 2015
Location: Kentucky
Posts: 7

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!
#3
Power Poster
Join Date: Mar 2011
Location: Ontario, Canada
Posts: 41,339

Most modern furniture is not made of real wood. I don't know if your husband could do a nice cut out for your machine but you put it on top. Most people keep an eye out for a sturdy wood kitchen table to put their machine into at the second hand shop. If you check the organization section of QB you might find some examples or put machine table in the QB search box.
#4

I have a computer desk that has a pullout keyboard drawer in the center. I decided to leave it as is and just put my machine on top with a pad so as not to scratch the finish of the desktop. I have been using this for about 8 years and am very happy with it. If you find something that your DH thinks he can drop your machine into - I say go for it, especially if the computer table is a good price. I got mine new and it was about $200, but I'm sure you could find a used one for less. Good luck with your search!
#5
Super Member
Join Date: Apr 2007
Location: Alturas, CA
Posts: 9,393

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?
#7

I was using a large folding table when I first set up my room, but the vibration from the table was so bad that I could hardly sew. I tried a vintage sewing table for a bit, but it was awkward so now we're in the process of piecing together a desk. I bought a kitchen table top in the as-is section at IKEA, and will be going back to buy two sets of cubby's to use as supports. For now I have the table top just sitting on top of the folding table and it's already a huge improvement. I have a smaller folding table that comes out into the room (on my left side) making an L shaped desk and I really like it. I took the drawer set that supported one side of my vintage table and used that under the table it's nice to have drawers right there. I went to IKEA looking for something sturdy and while we probably looked like a couple of crazies, I would sit at the desk or table and my husband would pound on the top so I could feel the vibration
Whatever you find, just watch out for vibration. Finding a really solid top seems to be important. Do you have IKEA near you? One material we considered were their butcher block counters but the table top I found was a steal. Have you checked craigslist for something used that might fit your needs? Also have you heard of Ana White? She has a ton of furniture plans in case you decide to still go that route.

#9

I'm using a corner desk unit that I inherited from my mom. The desk is on the left side, then there's an odd-triangle-shaped center corner unit that works as a connector, then a smaller work surface to the right of that. Both the desk and right-side unit have open storage shelves -- where I keep my thread, machine feet, oft-used tools handy but out of my way. The right-side unit holds a small pressing pad and a travel iron. The center connecting unit displays a metal tiered stand with jars of my vintage button eye candy, plus it has room for any miscellany of my current project. I did set my sewing machine on a non-skid mat. It's the perfect set-up for me.
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