Ideas Needed for 48" x 96" Work Table
02-04-2021, 08:32 PM
#21
Power Poster
Join Date: Apr 2011
Location: Ontario, Canada
Posts: 17,707
Originally Posted by LadyAg
Thanks for your help! When you connected your four mats, are you able to use the measurement lines across the four mats, or do you use rulers to do independent measurements? I cannot figure out how to connect and align the grid lines of the separate mats.
For really big measurements, I usually work with a tape measure, often folding the quilt in half to get that measurement. The earlier suggestion to put a 4 ft metal rulers on your table is a good one. I have one that I use at times ... nice and thin and would screw onto the side of a table easily. I could screw it on the side, but then again, it wouldn't be portable when I need it. You've got me thinking about one screwed down, so yes, maybe a purchase when I see one on sale again.
I have the largest square ruler (22") and smaller squares, using it mostly when I am squaring up the corner of a big quilt. Or when cutting large widths across the folded WOF.
The 6x24" ruler is my other main one when squaring up quilts. Anything longer, I can't see the merit, as sometimes it is hard enough as it is to hold the ruler and cut.
Last edited by QuiltE; 02-04-2021 at 08:37 PM.
02-05-2021, 03:49 AM
#22
Super Member
Join Date: Nov 2018
Location: Maine
Posts: 1,231
My work table is birch cabinet grade plywood, 3/4" thick. Cabinet grade plywood is more expensive, but well worth it. Smooth top, not rough. 3/4" thickness would be thick enough for the span your wanting to achieve. I've been very happy with my work surface.
As far as measuring goes, have you thought about laser. A laser tape measure is very accurate, if you had two, you could create your 90 degree corners, and you could move them around.
Good luck with your design, post pics once completed to inspire us.😎
As far as measuring goes, have you thought about laser. A laser tape measure is very accurate, if you had two, you could create your 90 degree corners, and you could move them around.
Good luck with your design, post pics once completed to inspire us.😎
02-05-2021, 08:46 PM
#23
Member
Join Date: Jan 2021
Location: Green Bay, WI
Posts: 34
Several years ago I came across a project that was actually 8 small tables/shelves by Ikea arranged 2 x 4 and bolted together. The ikea pieces were about $30 each, and had a shelf, too, so they combined to make a cutting table with shelf. They were about 2 ft. square and I guess high enough to work on.
02-06-2021, 12:09 PM
#24
Member
Join Date: Jul 2015
Location: Northern California
Posts: 75
We used sheets of white melamine covered particle board we bought at Lowe's. It's very sturdy and the smooth surface is kind to fabrics. You can get iron-on melamine tape to trim the edges. It isn't a lot more expensive than plywood and looks great. We used it to make a wide countertop between two storage cabinets, and to top a work table my husband made from 2x4s. It does not bow in the middle at all because it's so heavy.
