Over the last couple of years, we’ve been lucky enough to use many of the most popular sewing machine tables and cabinets. And not all cabinets are created equal!
From stability and very specific size requirements to extra features like “air-lift” designs, this article will cover absolutely everything you need to know before buying a sewing table or cabinet.
You’ll even find out some really clever tips and coupons to SAVE tons of money when buying. When you’re done, visit our best sewing machines review or our home page for more helpful guides.
In this article, you will learn:
- The Best Sewing Machine Tables
- The different Size Classes
- The difference between Tables VS Cabinets
- Why you Need a specialized sewing machine table
- What you must Consider before buying
Top 10 Sewing Machine Tables and Cabinets
1. Best Budget Sewing Machine Table for Beginners – Gidget I
This is an affordable beginner sewing table that’s great for smaller room and people who are downsizing. Despite it’s simple design, it has excellent build quality and is made from high quality particle board and a steel frame. For lighter, mid-sized sewing machines, it’s the ideal work horse.
Functionality
A key feature, found in all the products on this list is the lift design. This particular model offers 2 positions (flatbed and free-arm sewing) which is adjusted by a handle below the table.
Size
It does have a smaller opening (17″ x 7⅜”) than some of the larger cabinets which is great for small and mid-sized sewing machines like the Singer Heavy Duty range and the mid-sized Brother machines.
It stands 28 inches tall which is standard for most tables and has a 40×19 inch working surface. The legs fold securely under the table when you need to pack it away after your sewing project is complete.
Storage
Unfortunately, you sacrifice storage with this table. You would need to purchase a larger model or an additional storage cabinet if this is something you absolutely need.
- Affordable, beginner model
- Flatbed and free-arm position lift
- Smaller opening (17″ x 7⅜”) for mid-sized sewing machines
- Medium stability
- No storage
2. Best Portable Folding Sewing Machine Table – Gidget II
The Gidget II is the bogger brother of the Gidget I with a larger machine opening (24″ x 12″) for bigger sewing machines as well as caster wheels to help move it around when it’s folded. This makes is equally, if nor more portable than the Gidget I. It’s surprisingly stable for a sewing table but will never be quite as stable as a full-sized cabinet. Expect a little bit of movement. The bevel insert allows you to work on a perfectly flat surface if you want to use it as a cutting or crafts table. The MDF (Medium-density fiberboard) construction is strong and durable.
Functionality
It has the same 2 position manual lift mechanism which will drop the machine into flatbed sewing position with a simply adjustment of the lever.
Storage
Since this is strictly a sewing table, there’s no storage and you’ll have to add an additional cabinet for packing any fabrics, threads, etc.
- Larger Opening (24″ x 12″) for bigger sewing machines
- Highly portable
- Folding legs
- Legs act as natural handle for easy relocation
- Rolls on the two wheels when folded
- Not as stable as a Cabinet
- No storage
3. Best Compact Sewing Desk for Small Spaces – Sewnatra
The Sewnatra is the smallest of the “cabinet designs” even though it’s not strictly a cabinet since there’s no storage other than the trays inside the door. It does however fold up into a very neat cabinet style unit.
Functionality
A massive advantage of the Sewnatra is that it is the first on the list that has a 3 position air-lift. This means you can simply press down on the lift and it will disengage and go to your next desired position. The 3rd position is a much deeper “storage” position which can completely hide the sewing machine inside the cabinet.
Size
With a single leaf that opens to the left of the table, it opens up to 68 inches wide and closed down to 23 inches wide. (See exact sizes below). This allows it to pack into a very neat and compact unit when not in use.
- 68-7/16″ wide x 19-5/8″ deep x 30-1/2″ tall
- Closed dimensions: 23-3/4″ wide x 19-5/8″ deep x 31″ tall
- Accommodates sewing machines no larger than: 12 9/16″ front to back 18 7/8″ wide 13 1/8″ tall
Storage
If you’re using the sewing machine lift to store your machine, there no other storage available. This is sacrificed to keep the overall unit size as compact as possible.
- Folds up very compact
- Wheels for easy movement
- Perfect for small spaces
- 3 Position airlift to hide away the sewing machine
- Might be too small for some people
4. Sewing Machine Table with Extra Storage – Auntie
The Auntie is similar to the Sewnatra but has some storage drawers and an extra leaf to open a larger working surface. These collapsible leaves also cover the cabinet in stored mode very neatly.
Functionality
As with some previous models, the three position air-lift makes storing the machine lower down into the cabinet possible.
Size
Still a compact sewing cabinet, it has the following size options.
- 63 x 19 x 30 open
- 32 x 19 x 31 closed
Storage
4 Small side drawers for bobbins, threads and scissors make working just a little easier and neater.
- 3 positions air lift
- Some storage
- Wheels for easy movement
- 2 Leaves
- Storage is limited
5. Sturdy Sewing Table – Olivia
The Olivia Cabinet is larger than the folding designs above and comes in 3 cute colors. It’s also really stable compared to the smaller models above.
Functionality
The design of the cabinet only allows for a manual, 2 position machine lift. You can of course store your sewing machine in one of the side cabinets when done.
Size
The overall working surface is 60 inches wide. This is big enough for most home sewers and even quilters. You can purchase an additional quilt-leaf extension but it does not come included.
Storage
There are also 2 medium-sized drawers for storage. The two side cabinets don’t have doors so keeping the unit perfectly tidy is a little harded.
- 60 Inches wide
- 2 Position lift
- 3 Different colors
- Large opening 23.5 x 12.5 inches
- supports 45 pounds
- Fixed Size
- Quilt leaf not included
6. Best Sewing Cabinet for Home Use – Ginger
Continuing along the larger sewing cabinets, the Ginger is a great 3-in-1 solution as it has a ironing board built into the collapsible leaf and comes with a cutting mat too.
The ironing board goes a long way to saving space in your sewing room since you can eliminate the need for a separate ironing board all together.
Size
This unit is meant for larger, heavier sewing machines.
Storage
5 Small drawers are built into the front of the cabinet while a couple of open shelves are found on the left side.
- Ironing board built in
- Includes a cutting mat*
- only 2 positions – manual mechanism
- 5 Storage drawers
- Additional shelves on the side
- Built in thread pegs
- Large opening 23.5 x 12.5 opening
- Supports 45 pounds
- Storage is somewhat limited
- Not everyone needs an ironing board
7. Best Quilting Sewing Table – Bertha
A quilter’s dream, the massive space you get from the Bertha is more than enough for large quilting projects, curtains and even upholstery.
Functionality
The 3 position air lift allows you to drop the sewing machine right down into the cabinet for safe keeping when not in use.
Size
There are 3 separate leaves which extend the mid-sized sewing cabinet into a massive working area. On the other hand, it collapses into a real small footprint when all the flaps are down.
The rear quilt-leaf can be moved from side to side depending on where you need the extra work surface.
Storage
Storage is very limited and consists of trays attached to the inside of the cabinet doors.
- Airlift with free-arm, flat bed and sunken storage position
- Large opening 23.5 x 12.5 opening
- support 45 pounds
- Additional quilt-leaf extension. Slide it into the correct position
- Huge space saving when collapsed
- No storage except for trays built into the doors
8. Best Sewing Machine Table with Drawers 110 – Norma Jean
The Norma Jean takes the functionality of the Bertha one step further and includes 4 mid-sized drawers. On the flip-side, you lose the extra quilt leaf extension which has to be bought separately if you need one.
Functionality
Exact same air-lift as the Bertha with 3 positions including a deep storage option. It also has a tray on the working surface for extra knickknacks or sewing tools.
Size
You lose a little bit of space due to the lack of a quilt-leaf but the overall size is still very large.
Storage
The 4 drawers might be all you need but in most cases, a serious seamstress will need an additional storage cabinet too.
- Very similar to the Bertha
- Airlift with free-arm, flat bed and sunken storage position
- Large opening 23.5 x 12.5 opening
- Exchanges the quilt-leaf for more storage
- Tray for knickknacks
- Additional quilt-leaf extension not included (can be purchased separately)
9. Best Sewing Cabinet for Large Machines 140 – Emu
The EMU is the tallest of the sewing machine tables. At 36 inches tall, the working surface is high enough for embroidery work and people who prefer to stand while sewing.
Functionality
Since it has wheels / casters it can roll around the room very easily and becomes a great sewing machine island for the center of a room. This is also made more efficient thanks the storage are in the sides and rear.
The unit comes with an extra cover to close the sewing machine well so that the surface can also be used as a cutting table.
Size
Because a lot of the space is created by the open leaves/flaps there’s also a huge difference between open and closed positions making it a very versatile option.
- 36 inches tall and great for embroidery work and standing
- Runs on wheels – very easy to move around
- Great sewing island
- Storage in back
- 3 positions Air lift
- Pretty pricey
10. Best Adjustable Height Sewing Table 390 – Tasmanian
Finally, we have the Tasmanian height adjustable sewing table. If you’re planning on working long hours, changing from seated to standing position is a great way to help avoid back and shoulder pain.
Functionality
A simply hand crank mechanism drop the working surface as low as 25.8 inches and can raise it up to 38 inches.
The working surface also “packs away” by tilting 90 degrees backwards. This offers a great storage option as it will sit nearly flat up against a wall with just the legs protruding.
Size
The very large working surface also has a large sewing machine opening of 23.5 x 12.5 opening and can handle heavier machines with ease.
Storage
As this is a sewing table and not a cabinet, you’ll need to purchase additional storage cabinets for sewing separately.
- Adjustable height 28.5 – 38 inches
- Massive size
- Large machine opening
- Stable enough for heavy machines
- A unique feature is the tilting surface which is helpful when
- No storage
- No flaps (but due to the size, they are simply not necessary)
3 Different Classes of Sewing Machine Tables and Cabinets
You can break sewing tables and sewing cabinets into small, medium and large. Each class is wildly different, not only in size/footprint but also in features.
I’ve done my best to separate the three size classes along with their most common differences below. Note that the sizes and weight limits shown are averages. Some models have a folding panel called a “leaf” which adds to the working surface. (For the exact sizes and features, you should check out the individual product listings further down or visit the “buy now” link to see more specs.)
Small (compact design)
- Approx. Size 40″ by 20″
- Price 100$ – 500$
- Storage space is little to none.
- Weight capacity of up to 40 pound machines
- Smaller Machine Well Openings of 17″ x 7⅜”
- Somewhat unstable
- Often Highly portable
Medium
- Approx. Size 60″ by 30″
- Price 500$ – 1000$
- Storage consists of few small drawers and shelves.
- Weight capacity of around 40 to 80 pound machines
- Larger Machine Well Openings of 24″x 12″
- Stable
- Very Low Portability
Large
- Approx. Size 80″ by 40″
- Price 1000$ and higher
- Storage space is abundant and usually includes large cabinets.
- Weight capacity of around 40 to 80 pound machines
- Larger Machine Well Openings of 24″x 12″
- Incredibly Stable
- Not Portable
Sewing Machine Tables vs Cabinets
What’s the Difference Between a Sewing Machine Table and a Sewing Machine Cabinet? It’s quite simply the amount of storage that can be found inside each unit. A table has little to now storage and a cabinet has lots. Other than storage space, the two terms mean pretty much the same thing.
Do You Need a Special Table For a Sewing Machine?
It does make it a lot easier. If you don’t have a sewing machine table, you could sew on an IKEA desk or a dining room table, but there are certain advantages of using a specialized sewing machine table / cabinet that makes it a lot easier to work on. Here are the key advantages:
Sewing Machine Lift: A dedicated opening in the center of the table allows you to securely lower your sewing machine a few inches into the table for a “flat-bed” position.
Stability: Because it’s primarily a working surface, the manufacturer has focused on stability, making it easier to sew or quilt without “wobbling” around while you work.
Folding Designs: Most sewing machine cabinets will have some sort of space-saving, fold-up feature which means it can usually be stored compactly when not in use.
Dedicated Sizes: The drawers and shelving is designed with standard linen, thread and machine sizes in mind. In many cases, you may even have thread holders built into the cabinet design.
What should I look for in a sewing table?
Overall Design, Size and Footprint
Considering your sewing room size and layout, you’ll need to choose a sewing machine table that fit in the space.
Will your table or cabinet be up against a wall, in the corner of the room or maybe even placed as an island in the center of the sewing room. All these make a significant difference in which model you choose.
For example, larger cabinets with hinged flaps on the sides will need to be placed a long a long, open wall. If the flap (called a leaf) opens to the back, you may even choose to leave it in the middle of the room, or at the very least, have the room to pull it away from the wall every time you want to work.
Drop the leaves (hinged table flaps) also offer a great way to “pack-away” the table and make it much more compact. This is perfect for a guest room where you sometimes need the extra space.
Islands have storage in the back which can only be accesses when the unit it away from the wall.
Modular units sit side-by-side along the wall and are usually connected in the middle by a corner unit where the machine stands. If you’re thinking of going modular, you can buy the corner unit first and then add storage cabinets to the sides, as your needs grow.
Some specialized units will include an ironing board to the side, thereby eliminating the need for a sperate ironing board.
Lift Opening Size (Sewing Well for the Machine)
This the the big opening where the machine goes in. It usually rests on an adjustable lift which can be moved up or down depending on your sewing needs.
Some tables don’t have an opening at all. Others have either smaller openings or large ones. Finally, some specialized tables have custom machine wells.
Traditional sewing machine sizes haven’t changed much in a hundred years. For this reason, it’s possible to offer 2 or so pretty standardized openings which will accommodate most machines perfectly.
The size you’ll need of course depends entirely on the sewing machine you’ll be using.
To determine the correct well size, measure the base of your machine or check the manufacturer’s website.
The popular singer Heavy Duty sewing machine for example, is 15.5″ x 6.25″ and will fit perfectly inside a small opening of 17½” x 7⅜”
The most common size lift openings are:
- A3 = 17½ x 7⅜
- A5 = 22¼ x 11⅝ inches
- A7 = 23½ x 12½ inches
Please check the product specs to ensure your machine fits before buying.
Since the early 2000s, there have been some unique exceptions which have a larger footprint and huge professional sewing and quilting units will have a hard time fitting inside a standard sewing well. In this case, you can simply rest the machine on top of the counter as opposed to having it sunken in. This is fine since the machine itself will usually have a pretty large table of it’s own that can be attached.
Pre-ordered or custom made inserts can also help you fit your machine perfectly for a seamless working surface.
Lift Design Mechanism
The lift mechanism which raises and lowers the platform on which the sewing machine rests can differ greatly.
In some cases an arm or lever moves the floating bed up or down. This works perfectly fine but usually only allows for 2 positions:
1. Free-arm position.
It’s at the same height as the rest of the table top. This would be the equivalent of placing your sewing machine on any normal desk without an opening.
2. Flat-bed position.
This is sunken down slightly so the sewing surface is inline with with rest of the table.
In more advanced models, you’ll find an “Air-lift” mechanism. This is a spring loaded design which disengages when you push down on the machine to quickly switch between the different positions. This mechanism is easier to use and also offers a third position.
3. Storage Position.
This drops the bed all the way down into the cabinet and “stores” the sewing machine away for safety. It’s perfect for creating a neat, “packed-away” look if you have guests or need the working surface for something else.
Size of the Working Surface
How big are your projects. If you will be handling smaller garments and decorative projects, you won’t need a massive working surface.
If you want to work with quilts, curtains, wedding dresses and even upholstery, you’d better be sure you won’t run out of space.
Having enough room to move the fabric while you sew will make it 100 times easier to avoid accidental seams being stitches as the fabric twists. Furthermore, there’s a lot to be said for perspective… seeing the entire project stretched out while you work, rather than being limited to one portion and constantly readjusting the excess fabric.
You might even need some extra space for fabric cutting tools, chalks, pins, etc. If you have a lot of space, the surface can also be used as a cutting table and even an ironing surface.
Table Height
The average sewing machine table height is 27½ to 30½ inches.
Some table can be adjusted but most cabinets are at a fixed height.
The height of your table is incredibly important. Fine-tuning the height at which you sew, will make a world of difference when it comes to sewing for long periods of time with no discomfort. Nobody wants a sore neck, back and elbows after sewing!
The best rule for an ergonomic sewing position is:
The bed of your sewing machine needs to even with the bottom of your rib cage.
So, in the case of sewing machine table without a sunken machine well, where the machine is simply sitting on top of the table, you’ll often find that the machine bed is too high. In this case you may have to raise your sewing chair or find a better suited sewing table.
If you manage to position the sewing bed at the right level, the joints in your elbows will be roughly at a right-angle, which will reduce strain while you work.
This will carry down your spine into your hips.
For the best ergonomic sewing position, you should also adjust your sewing chair so that your thighs are parallel to the floor while your feet are flat on the ground.
You can place a box under your feet if the table is too high.
Standing while sewing? Specialized tables may even allow for sewing in a standing position. This is done with a hand-crank to raise of lower the working surface from 25½ inches for the low, seated position and up to 38½ inches for standing position.
Price
Budget is obviously a big consideration. You’ll need to be sure you’re not overspending but also, that you aren’t buying a table that’s too cheap and won’t serve you for a long time. The average sewing table lasts decades so make sure you’re investing in the right solution.
Storage Space
How much space do you need. Some cabinets have extra drawers, fabric racks and even built-in thread pegs. You can save so much space by choosing a cabinet with built-in storage instead of buying additional sewing room furniture.
Security
Do the cabinets have doors which close and even lock? This is a great way to prevent little prying hands from getting into your threads and sharp needles. It also protects your expensive sewing machine and all it’s accessories.
This is especially true if the lift drops down all the way and hides the sewing machine completely after use.
If your table has not way of securely storing your sewing tools, you’ll end up buying a cabinet at some point… especially if you have kids around.
Use (Beginner, Seamstress, Quilter, etc)
How much sewing will you be doing. A professional seamstress will need a much bigger surface and additional features than a regular hobbyist.
If you’re doing quilting, or even professional embroidery, you’ll also need more space and stability.
Stability
Speaking of stability, this is an often overlooked aspect of sewing machine tables.
It is incredibly frustrating to try and work on a table that keep swaying while you work. Not to mention the accidental creases and unintentional stitches.
You’ll also need to consider the weight of your sewing machine.
Lighter sewing machines start at around 10 to 15 pounds, with the average quality serger or sewing machine weighing about 15 to 17 pounds.
A heavy Juki sewing machine can easily reach 28 pounds and needs a really stable working surface.
By default, cabinets are much more stable that tables as the legs are supported by the cabinet design.
The material also matters… heavier wooden construction is usually much more stable than modern metal designs but are nearly impossible to move around on your own.
Portability
If you’re planning on going to sewing retreats, classes or just visiting friends to sew, a lightweight, foldable sewing table is a great choice.
The popular Gidget II table has wheels on the one side and can easily be dragged by the folded legs, which acts as a comfortable handle.
Maybe you simply want to move the table around the room, when you have guests sleeping over. Just check for wheels and your problem is solved. Just be sure they can lock in position.
Modular Construction
As mentioned before, certain cabinets are meant to be used in a modular way, with the sewing table in the center and storage cabinets, cutting tables and more to the sides.
This is especially true if you want a corner unit with working area branching out to the sides.
Be sure to start with a cabinet that can expand into a full modular solution over time.
Extra Features
This includes additional features like an Ironing Board, Cutting Area and even a Tilt-Design to allow for flat storage against a wall. See the list of products we’ve reviewed for some truly unique features.