With a lot of sewing, you have to do a lot of cutting. The need for a sewing cutting table can not be overemphasized. When thinking of a cutting table, the width and length are the two parameters that most people consider first.
However, it is important to get the table at the right height as well to avoid any back aches. With a sewing cutting table of the right height, you don’t need to bend or hunch your back during cutting and when you need to press down certain areas of your project with an iron.
What Is A Good Height For A Sewing Cutting Table?
A good height for a cutting table is relative. It depends on the height of the person using the table. You will find three different tables in a standard sewing room: the cutting, sewing, and pressing table.
However, if your sewing room is small, you may not have the luxury of fitting in all three tables and you will have to compromise. You can use one table for multiple purposes.
While your height is the first and most important thing to consider when buying a sewing cutting table, there are other factors you have to look into. Some of them include;
1. The table
There are different designs of sewing cutting tables in the market. Make sure you do your research and check reviews from previous customers when buying online. Some tables have adjustable legs that you can either increase or decrease the length you wish. Check for tables with features that you can use to your advantage.
2. Machine
With the invention of the table sewing machine, you may put your sewing machine in mind when buying a table. When working in a small space. You will want to utilize the area to get the most out of it.
You can go for a bigger table that is big enough to put your machine and sew on while still having enough space left for cutting or ironing. The table should be strong enough to carry the machine.
Although modern machines are a bit light in weight compared to the sewing machine we use to have a few decades back
3. Chair
Make sure the table you are buying is high enough to fit in your chair. Sometimes, you may lay your fabric on the cutting table when beading it. Beading or applying stonework to your garment takes time. Standing throughout the application process is not realistic. You will want to sit down, relax and concentrate on the beads and stone work to get the desired results.
As I mentioned earlier, an adjustment table is the best fit for this. You can lower the legs down to a level where you can rest your hand and do your work without straining your arms. And when you are done and want to cut out fabric, you simply increase the legs to your desired length.
4. Durability and Quality
A cutting table can be used to iron out some clothes, and do others sewing work on. Buy a top-quality sewing cutting table made from durable materials. Most of these tables are made from strong plastic materials.
Ensure they are waterproof and have a high resistance to heat. Always check for reviews when buying online and read the product description thoroughly. If you don’t understand or need clarity on anything, you can simply ask the vendor.
What Are The Different Types Of Cutting Dimensions in Sewing?
Your project determines the ideal dimension you will cut. When cutting quilting pieces, you do not necessarily need a long table. With creating clothes, you will need a table that is generously wide and long.
You will need enough space to spread out about 2 or more yards of fabric. There are three different types of cutting dimensions in sewing. These dimensions are;
1. Length
You need a table long enough to fit in your fabric without draping down. Most tables come in a range of four to eight feet long (in length). Buy a table that fits the type of cutting you will be doing and how much space you have.
A smaller sewing room will need a smaller cutting table of about four feet while you can go for a longer table if you have more space at your disposal.
2. Width
The width is equally important but not as important as the length. If you have a roller or cutting mat, then your table should have the same width as them depending on the one you’re using.
This will prevent the mat from hanging over the edge of the table while you are cutting. A table with about 30 inches in width will do almost all types of cutting you will require.
3. Height
The height of your cutting table is very important. Your cutting table height depends on your height in person. There is no standard measurement for it. It is always advisable to buy a table with adjustable legs that you can increase and decrease when the need arises. You can also build the table yourself to suit the perfect height you want.
A normal sewing cutting table height should be slightly below your waistline. With that height, you do not have to bend or hunch your back when sewing. You will not have any back aches or strains.
All the dimensions are important but the most important is the height. However, the width and length are equally important to have a stress-free cutting. It is only bad to be tired at just the cutting stage of your project. It can discourage you from sewing and not giving your best to get a good final product.
How To Figure out The Best Height For My Cutting Table
After purchasing your cutting table with adjustable lengths, how do you know the right height to use? And when sending measurements to your carpenter to make a custom cutting table for you, what length would it be? Below are tips on how to figure out the best height for your cutting table.
- Are you using your cutting table for quilting projects? This is one important question you need to answer when getting the best height for your cutting table. Quilting and sewing use different tools. The depth with which you hold your hand while cutting with traditional scissors is additional to when using a rotary cutter. The type of tools you are using will determine if the length of your sewing cutting table should be higher or lower.
- The height of your cutting table should be good enough to allow you to move freely and reach out to other positions when working. The length should not be too high to overstretch you or too low that you have to bend your neck, shoulder, or back. It will lead to strain, in the back and shoulder and also make you tired easily. Keeping my cutting table length just a bit above my waistline has worked for me over the years. Try a length a little above your waistline to see how comfortable you are. That may be the best length you have been looking for.
Conclusion
Having a sewing cutting table saves you from constant backaches and strains. The dimensions of your sewing cutting table are equally important. The most important of dimensions is height followed suit with width and length. There is no standard measurement for how long your sewing cutting table should be.
Your height will determine the length of the table that will best fit you when cutting. You can decide to build a custom-made table for yourself or buy from the market. When purchasing a ready-made table, it is advisable to buy a table that has adjustable legs. You can increase or decrease the length to your desired height.
With this cool feature, you can use the table for other sewing activities like ironing, and applying Crystals and beads to your garment. Ensure you invest in the right sewing cutting table made from top-quality materials that are durable.