The Ideal Dimensions for a Cutting Table for Sewing

Types of Cutting

• Ideal dimensions depend on your projects. Clothing takes a table that is a little bit longer and wider than a table for cutting out quilt pieces. When cutting clothing, normally you spread out 2 to 3 yards of fabric, which requires a longer space to spread it all out. Often when cutting out quilt pieces, you use smaller pieces of fabric.

Length

• If you use a roller and cutting mat to cut out quilt pieces, make sure your table is at least 6 inches longer than your mat. Many standard tables range from 4 to 8 feet in length. Choose the length of the table according to what type of cutting you do and how much space you have. A table that is 4-foot in length will work best in a smaller sewing room. However, if you have the space, an 8-foot table is ideal for laying out longer pieces of fabric for cutting.

Width

• While the width of the table is important, it is not as important as the length. If you use a roller and cutting mat, your table must be at least the width of the mat. The mat cannot hang over the edge of the table. The ideal width of a cutting table is about 30 inches.

Height

• The height of the table top from the floor is a very important measurement. This measurement will vary for each person because it has more to do with a person's height than any standard measurements. For best results, find a table that has adjustable legs. Unless you are building the table yourself, it will be almost impossible to find one that is at the exact height you need. The height of a cutting table should be just about at your waist or slightly below, which is higher than most standard tables. At this height, you will not have to bend over so much, straining your back. Depending on how tall you are, the average height of a cutting table should be between 36 and 40 inches high, but you want to lower it for children.