Build Your Own Cutting Table
I first was introduced to the idea to build my own cutting table from Sandy, blogger and podcaster at Quilting for the Rest of Us. Since then, I have seen many examples of the combined cutting table and craft storage on Pinterest.
After giving some specific thoughts to my ergonomic needs, I designed an easy-to-move table that would be kind to my back. I added three inch wheeled casters that elevated the cutting surface to be about six inches below my elbow. I am told that 3 to 6 inches from the elbow bend is the preferred height for a work surface. This has proven comfortable for me, as I am 5’8″ with a long torso. I have my 24 x 36 inch cutting mat on one side of the table. A floor lamp is next to this table. The lamp has an arm that can be adjusted to shine on the location where I am working. There are multiple cubbies that hold drawers, bins or equipment. I cannot claim that everything is its place, but getting back to being organized is easier with this table. You can see many versions on the web. I made my table using Target’s version of the cube shelving, and tabletops from IKEA.
To hold together all of these pieces I used metal brackets, as well as carriage bolts. I drilled through the bottom of three of the four bookcase units, also drilling through the table top that served as the unit’s base. I threaded three smooth/flat headed bolts through the base of the bookcase units, down through the holes in the tabletop base. I attached the nut from underneath the base unit. This held three of the four units in place, well enough, so that I could attach the metal brackets to the sides of each bookcase.
Once all four pieces were sufficiently held together, I placed a piece of carpeting base fabric, you know, the grid like plasticky sheet that you put under rugs to keep them from slipping, on top of the bookcases. I then placed the other table top on top of this non-skid sheet. The non-slip factor works well enough to hold the tabletop in place. The top holds while I am cutting, but I would not try to push the table from the top piece. I usually place my hand against the side of the bookcase to move it. I don’t move it very often, however.
I usually keep the caster locks on unless I am moving the table to clean. I love that it moves so easily so that I can vacuum underneath. I create so many snippets and threads, and having my furry companion in the room with me adds to the mess I usually find under the table.
It is a treat to have a large cutting surface and so many places to store my tools and fabric. For a more detailed description of how I put this together, click here.
