A Guide to Drafting Tables

In this guide to drafting tables we will outline the different types of tables available, along with the pros and cons of each.  A drafting table that is perfectly suited to the kind of work you are doing can make a big Difference in the quality of work produced. Ideally, the user should find a table that adjusts easily, is comfortable, and fits the room and décor where you will be working.

It is also important to choose a drafting table designed for your specific needs.  Let's take a look at a few of the different drafting table types available.

A four-post design drafting table is the strongest type available, and will provided the greatest stability in use.  Four-post designs also tend to be reasonably priced, making them ideal for a home office or school environment.  Although four-post design drafting tables will normally not last as long as a professional table, they tend to be good value for the money.

But for users who need more features and durability than a four-post table offers, a professional drafting table is the way to go.  Professional tables are most commonly used by architects, drafters and engineers.  Artists may also take advantage of the greater durability and expanded features of a professional drafting table.

On the downside, a professional drafting table will normally be the most expensive type to buy.  If you are using the table in a professional environment, or need the highest degree of versatility and stability in a drafting table, a professional table will be well worth the extra money.

Wood drafting tables of the traditional "slanted" style are the type most of us are used to seeing.  Wood tables can be made of a variety of hardwoods, and in many different styles.  It is also possible to have a wood drafting table custom-made to your specifications.  Some professionals choose to go this route, having a computer mounting system attached directly to the table.

Wood tables are also a good compromise between stability, versatility and price, and are favored by many engineers or artists.  Prices for wood drafting tables began at just a few hundred dollars, while contemporary designs made of more exotic woods can easily fetch several thousand.

Another type of drafting table is known as the artist table.  An artist table will normally allow its work surface to be tilted to 90°.  This allows artists to sketch or paint at a variety of different angles, taking full advantage of available light in the room.  An artist drafting table is sometimes called a "tilt table," because of its 90° tilt feature.

However, "tilt tables" or artist drafting tables are not only used by artists.  Drafters, for example, often appreciate the extended tilt radius of the artist table, and even some architects had been known to work exclusively on a 90° tilt artist table.

When it comes to choosing from one of the various drafting table types, you should let your work be your primary guide. But remember, as individuals we all have different working and artistic preferences, so it is possible that you will find the best drafting table for you is not necessarily the one most commonly used in your profession. 

Hopefully, this guide to drafting tables has helped you narrow down your choices, and think about the functionality and design characteristics you need in a drafting table.