A sewing table is a type of table designed to provide work area for individuals who like to sew. It may include an inset area for a sewing machine to sit flush with the table, a drop leaf for extra room, or storage areas for sewing equipment. Sewing tables can also have specialty surfaces such as a heat-resistant surface for ironing or a cut-resistant surface for cutting fabric. Some sewing tables come with extra features like a built-in ruler or specific places for common sewing tools. Sewing tables can be fully customizable for each sewer’s needs, and some models are portable for sewing on the go.
A basic sewing table contains only a flat surface where sewers or crafters can lay out, measure, and cut fabric, and this kind of basic table can be as simple as a table or desk. The most common modification to a desk or plain table to make it perfect for sewing is an inset panel for a sewing machine. These kinds of panels will drop down to allow the sewing machine to sit flush with the table surface. When choosing a table with a space for a sewing machine, crafters should always measure their machines to make sure that they will fit, although some inset panels are adjustable to various machine heights.
For sewing hobbyists, a smaller sewing table with shelves or drawers and drop leaves for extra surface can be a smart choice. Sewing requires many small items like needles and pins, so organized storage spaces are very important for any type of sewing furniture. Having a large open area to lay out fabric can also be important, so storage areas should be underneath the table rather than taking up space on the table top.
Specialty surfaces can also make a sewing table more conducive to efficient work. Some surfaces are treated to withstand the heat of an iron, while others are marked with a grid pattern for straight cuts. Many sewers use a rotary blade to cut fabric, and some sewing tables can have a specialty surface made of plastic or cork that allows the blade to cut without damaging the table.
Portable sewing tables include folding tables for machines or extension tables. Folding tables provide sewers a place to set their machine and work at craft fairs or places other than their main sewing area. An extension table is a specific type of sewing table that connects to a sewing machine and provides a place for feeding fabric into the machine.