How to Construct a Sewing Machine Table

Desk with a wide center drawer and other drawers for sewing supplies.

A personalized sewing-machine table gives the user the perfect sewing center. Create a sewing-machine table from a desk with a wide center drawer. A desk less than 30 inches tall is the correct height for sewing for most people. The desk can also store sewing tools and supplies. This sewing center is also multifunctional; remove the sewing machine and use it as a cutting or pressing table.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• Marking pen
• Desk with wide center drawer
• Saw
• Plywood
• Drill and drill bits
• Wood screws
• Wooden table leg
• Foam insulation (sheet)
• Serrated knife
• Window vinyl
• Scissors
• Office chair with wheels

Instructions

1. Measure the length and width of the sewing machine's base. Add 2 inches to both measurements.

2. Draw a rectangle on the desktop with a marking pen, 2 inches from the right side of the center drawer and 8 inches from the front edge of the desktop.

3. Cut the hole with a saw.

4. Measure the center drawer, then cut a piece of plywood to fit under the drawer. Drill screw holes in the plywood, then attach with screws to the bottom of the drawer.

5. Measure from the bottom of the plywood drawer to the floor for the leg support. Cut the wooden leg to fit this measurement. Screw the leg to the center of the plywood.

6. Line the drawer with foam insulation to adjust the height of the sewing surface to the same height of the desk. Cut the foam with the serrated knife.

7. Place the sewing machine in the opening. The needle should be in the center of the drawer for easy sewing.

8. Cover the desk and the sewing-machine surface with the vinyl. Cut a hole in the vinyl with scissors to expose the needle and presser foot section. Trim the vinyl to lie flat over the arm of the sewing machine and any other areas that interfere with sewing.

9. Remove the arms from the office chair.

10. Adjust the height of the chair so that your feet are flat on the floor at a 90-degree angle. The arms should bend naturally without raising your shoulders.

Tips & Warnings

• A pneumatic chair will help the user to sit and stand easier.

• The height of the desktop and the chair should allow the arms to bend comfortably at your sides and should be parallel to the floor.

References

• New Mexico State University: Designing a Sewing Center
• Occupational Safety & Health Administration: Good Working Positions