The 10 Best Drafting Table Options For Modern-Day Users
Drafting tables were a lot more common in the past when they were used by craftsmen of all types. With time they became more specialized which led them to be associated mostly with architects and artists. At the same time, they made their way into home offices and study rooms so in a way they actually became more popular. In the old days, drafting tables were handmade and carved from exotic woods, with lots of ornamental details on them and elegant and elaborate designs. The modern drafting tables of today are quite different and the examples below will show you exactly in what way.
10 Best Drafting Table: Quick Picks!
It has a simple design that matches that of the table. The stool measures 20.87'' in height and 12.2'' in diameter.
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The overall dimensions of this drafting table are 42.25'' width x 24'' depth x 31.5''-49.5'' height (the height is adjustable).
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The top can be tilted at the desired angle (6 options to choose from, from flat up to 35 degrees)/ On the sides there are four trays for storing and organizing office supplies. They're removable.
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The table is made from solid wood which makes it look more like a regular piece of furniture and less like a specialized desk.
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We should also mention that this table features a robust and sturdy frame made from powder-coated steel which gives it lots of resilience and ensures it will last for years to come.
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The table weighs 84 lbs (38 kg) and can hold up to 60 lbs (27 kg).
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It's easy to take off and to install back using the included screws.
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The smaller one remains flat and measures 11.5'' in width and 30'' in depth. This is where you can keep all your utensils and reference materials.
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The table has a long shelf beneath the main desktop which can also be used for storage.
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You can combine it with other similar attachments to make your drafting table is better-suited for your specific needs. This is especially useful if the table doesn't include any storage drawers or shelves.
View DealHow to choose the right drafting table for you
Drafting tables have a variety of uses and are not just for architects. They can be used for drafting but also for drawing, painting, or for viewing large documents and are also useful for various different crafting projects and hobbies. They usually have a rigid support structure and a top that can be set at different angles.
Size
The size of the drafting table is very important because you want it to fit comfortably into the space that you have available. You also should aim at having plenty of open space around it so you can easily adjust the top and not have items in the way.
If you’re working with a limited amount of space, consider a drafting table that you can potentially pack and store when you’re not using it. Portable drafting tables however tend to be less sturdy and durable and provide less support.
On the other hand, is space is not an issue, consider a pedestal drafting table. These have very sturdy and heavy bases which is also true for four-post tables as well.
The tabletop
The most important element of a drafting table is the table top. To choose the right type you must take into consideration your specific needs and the way in which you’ll be using the table. Common sizes for drafting table tops include 24″ x 36″, 30″ x 42″, 37.5″ x 48, 37.5″ x 60″ and 37.5″ x 72″ but other sizes are also available in case you’re looking for something more particular.
In general, it’s best to make sure that the table top is large enough so figure out what paper size you’ll be using and find a table with a top larger than that. If you’ll be working with blueprints, make sure you can fit them all on the table and the don’t hang off the edges. You might also want to have room on the table for various reference materials if you’re going to be using it for drawing or painting.
Style
This part is entirely subjective. You should look for a drafting table that suits your own style as well as the style of the space that it will be a part of. If you have a contemporary or a minimalistic office then the table should suit the environment. Perhaps one made of metal or with a glass top could look nice. If you’re looking for something a bit more rustic or traditional, classic wooden tables are usually a safe choice.
Features and accessories
Because there are so many different types of drafting tables with all sorts of different designs, it’s important to figure out what the priorities are so you can identify the specific features and design elements to look for in a drafting table. For example, you might want one with some sort of built-in storage or tray for your supplies or you might want to look for proper lighting for the table.
1.Height Adjustable Drafting Draft Desk
The Zeny drafting table has a strong and sturdy construction which is important for keeping it stable and offering the user the optimal work conditions. It has powder-coated iron legs and a MDF tabletop, a combination that ultimately gives it an eclectic and versatile look. As far as the design is concerned, this is a drafting table that’s meant to be practical and durable but that also manages to stay aesthetically pleasing. It’s modern with industrial accents without going overboard.
The height of the table can be adjusted from 28” to 35.8” and any level in between, allowing each user to customize their workstation exactly how they need it to be. The tabletop’s angle can also be adjusted from 0 to 45 degrees. It has a lip which prevents sheets and other things from slipping. The table also features two spacious drawers for storing drawing tools and other accessories and keeping them close and accessible at all times. The overall dimensions of the Zeny drafting table are 55″ x 23.62″ x 28″-35.8″. The stool is included.
It has a simple design that matches that of the table. The stool measures 20.87'' in height and 12.2'' in diameter.
View Deal2.OneSpace Craft Station
The OneSpace drafting table is a really great piece. We think it’s a perfect blend of looks and function. It achieves that by maintaining a simple and well-organized structure. It has a super strong and sturdy frame made from heavy-duty steel with an elegant silver finish which gives it a more refined look and prevents it from being too industrial. The glass top is a very interesting and also a bit unexpected element. It further adds more elegance to the design without compromising its overall functional appeal.
The four casters (2 with a locking mechanism) allow the table to be moved around and repositioned as needed which is convenient and needed given that it’s quite heavy and robust despite its slender-looking design. The desktop supports up to 130 lbs (59 kg) so don’t let the glass fool you. What’s particularly nice about this table is the fact that it has removable trays on each side for storing and organizing all the pens and tools you usually use. They’re always there, always accessible. There’s also a set of two slide-out drawers for extra storage and they’re placed out of the way but still easily accessible.
The overall dimensions of this drafting table are 42.25'' width x 24'' depth x 31.5''-49.5'' height (the height is adjustable).
View Deal3.Folding Modern Glass Top Adjustable Drafting Table
This drafting table is very similar to the OneSpace one mentioned just now but lacks the storage drawers. Its overall dimensions are 40.75” width x 23.75” depth and 30.5” height. As you probably noticed, the height in this case can’t be adjusted which can be a big disadvantage in some cases. However, this model brings something else to the table: a folding frame. That means you have the option to easily fold the table and put it in storage or get it out of the way when you’re not using it, making room for something else. This is especially useful if you’re getting this for your home office.
With this drafting table you get to enjoy a 32.25” wide and 23.75” deep work surface made out of tempered glass. Two more options are available: with a maple top and a white base or a white top and a black base. For the blue glass version the base has a silver finish. The frame is made out of heavy gauge steel which makes it durable and strong.
The top can be tilted at the desired angle (6 options to choose from, from flat up to 35 degrees)/ On the sides there are four trays for storing and organizing office supplies. They're removable.
View Deal4.Vintage Rustic Oak Drafting Table
If you’re looking for a drafting table that has a more authentic, vintage look then there are some really great options to choose from, this being one of them. It has a nice old-school design but at the same time it’s been built to suit modern use case scenarios. The overall dimensions of this eclectic drafting table are 42” width x 30” depth x 36” height. Again, the height is fixed and can’t be adjusted like in the case of other modern drafting tables so keep that in mind. This should not be a problem if you’re using a height-adjustable chair anyway but might be an issue if you plan on using the table as a standing desk at any point in time.
An interesting detail in this case is the fact that you can adjust the angle on the table top from flat up to 90 degrees which is not that common on other models. The top is very simple and lack any attachments, storage trays and other elements. It only has a built-in pencil groove with a 24” ledge. The best part of the design remains the vintage vibe.
The table is made from solid wood which makes it look more like a regular piece of furniture and less like a specialized desk.
View Deal5.Height Adjustable Drawing and Drafting Table
As you may have already suspected, a lot of drafting tables are versatile enough to also be used as conventional desks. That’s true in most cases but especially for tables that have very simple designs without extra features. This one is even more versatile because its height is adjustable as well. That means you can use it as a standing desk if you ever want or need to. Of course, the desktop angle can be adjusted too, tilting the table as needed but also being able to keep it flat.
In order to change the height of the table or the angle at which the desktop is positioned you can use the oversized thumb screws which are seamlessly embedded into the frame. They’re easy to use and keep the design of the drafting table simple without diminishing its overall functionality.
We should also mention that this table features a robust and sturdy frame made from powder-coated steel which gives it lots of resilience and ensures it will last for years to come.
View Deal6.Southern Enterprises Knightley Tilt Top Drafting Table
The antique brass accents really bring out the industrial character on this drafting table. Its overall design is focused around simplicity and elegance which also gives the table a modern allure. The metal frame and the wooden top contrast with each other but also complement each other and bring out the unique details in the materials and finishes used.
The tabletop tilts up to 30 degrees which is not a lot compared to other models yet it’s enough to let you easily convert this from a regular writing table into a drafting table in case you need to do some sketches, drawings or something similar. The anti-slip hinges will keep it at the right angle, creating the perfect working conditions every time. The table is 51.5” wide and 32.75” deep. The height is adjustable and can go from 30” to 43.25” and anything in between.
The table weighs 84 lbs (38 kg) and can hold up to 60 lbs (27 kg).
View Deal7.Drafting Table Wood Surface Craft Station
This is also a very versatile drafting table that can also be used as a regular desk or as a simple table. It has a simple and modern design with a trendy and versatile appeal. The desktop measures 47” in length and 24” in width which makes it just right for a variety of different tasks and suitable for both children and adults. The top is made from particle wood and has a smooth and glossy finish. The frame on the other hand is made of heavy gauge steel which allows it to stay slender and to be highly sturdy and durable at the same time.
The height of the table can be adjusted and there are five different levels to choose from. There’s a little groove at the bottom with a pen slot and a lip that prevents the papers and sheets from sliding off the desk when in the tilted position. You can remove this when using the table as a regular writing desk.
It's easy to take off and to install back using the included screws.
View Deal8.STUDIO DESIGNS Graphix II Workstation
The Graphix II Workstation from Studio Designs is exactly what you’d expect from a contemporary and minimalist piece of furniture. It has a very simple and clean design which suits the general aesthetic of this style perfectly. The overall dimensions of the table are 53.5” width and 30” depth, with range between 30” and 39” for the height. The steel frame gives the table a slender and lightweight appearance without compromising its strength and durability. It’s painted white just like the desktop, reinforcing the minimalist aesthetic of this piece.
What’s special and interesting about this drafting desk isn’t the adjustable height and not even the design. It’s the fact that it allows the user to simultaneously have an angled top and a flat top. It manages that by splitting the desktop into two sections. The larger one can be tilted and measures 42” in width and 30” in depth.
The smaller one remains flat and measures 11.5'' in width and 30'' in depth. This is where you can keep all your utensils and reference materials.
View Deal9.Yaheetech Drawing Drafting Table
The Yaheetech drafting table prides itself on being highly versatile. It’s quite understandable given some of the key design features in this case. First, the dimensions of the table would support this statement plus there’s also the way in which the piece is structured. Instead of a single large desktop surface to be used for work and storage there are actually two separate sections. The main desktop measures 50.4” in length by 23.6” in width and the surface can be tilted and adjusted from 0 to 60 degrees. The secondary section is placed lower and serves as a sort of side table.
There’s a built-in pencil ledge which prevents the papers from sliding off the tilted table and which can be removed if necessary, in case you ever wish to use this as a writing desk or a computer table instead. A key component in the design is also the auxiliary table on the right side of the desk which can be used in a variety of different ways. It includes three storage drawers.
The table has a long shelf beneath the main desktop which can also be used for storage.
View Deal10.Modern Premier Metal Tray for Art/Craft Table
In case you already have a drafting table that you like and would like to keep, there are additions you can opt for designed to make it even more functional and practical. This metal tray for example fits most tables made by Studio Designs and could even fit other models. The main condition is for the top to be between 5/8” and 3/4” thick. In any case, this is a nice way of upgrading your existing drafting table with some well-needed accessories.
The overall dimensions of the tray are 35.5” W x 6.5” D x 4” H. It includes two wire mesh swivel cups and a flexible foam organizer for pencils and markers, with 10mm and 15mm holes. It’s a very convenient addition designed to keep your drafting table and surrounding area free of clutter and well-organized.
You can combine it with other similar attachments to make your drafting table is better-suited for your specific needs. This is especially useful if the table doesn't include any storage drawers or shelves.
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