All categories
Featured selections
Trade Assurance
Buyer Central
Help Center
Get the app
Become a supplier
(810 products available)
Ready to Ship
Ready to Ship
Drafting tables come in different types and sizes, depending on the needs of the user. Some of the most popular types include the following:
Standard Drafting Table Size
A standard drafting table is typically 36 inches by 48 inches in size. This size is large enough for most drafting tasks, such as creating architectural or engineering designs. The tabletop of a standard drafting table is usually adjustable, allowing the user to change the angle of the surface for different types of work. This feature is especially important for people in industries where precision is key, such as construction or product design. The legs of a standard drafting table are often made from metal or wood, providing a sturdy base for the adjustable tabletop. Overall, a standard drafting table is a versatile piece of furniture that can be used in a variety of professional settings.
Compact Drafting Table Size
A compact drafting table is usually around 24 inches by 36 inches in size. This size makes it ideal for small offices, home studios, or workshops where space is limited. Despite its smaller size, many compact drafting tables still have adjustable angles for more versatility. The tabletop can be set to a flat position for regular tasks or tilted for technical drawing and drafting work. The base is often made of lightweight yet durable materials like aluminum or solid wood, making it easy to move without sacrificing stability. A compact drafting table is a practical solution for professionals or hobbyists who need a dedicated space for drafting but are short on room.
Professional Drafting Table Size
A professional drafting table is commonly 30 inches by 60 inches or larger, depending on the needs of the user. Fields like architecture and engineering often require more space than average for detailed work, so these tables are generally bigger than home or hobbyist models. Most professional drafting tables feature an adjustable tabletop for tasks that necessitate a flat surface and tilted drafting. To accommodate heavy use, these tables are frequently made with industrial-strength materials such as steel frames and tempered glass or laminates for the surface. You will find these tables in commercial setting places like design firms and engineering labs where accuracy and durability are vital.
Drawing Table Size
A drawing table is frequently 24 inches by 36 inches, making it suitable for sketching and artwork. This size is manageable for artists working on detailed illustrations or smaller design projects. Some drawing tables have tiltable tops, but many are designed to be flat for standard drawing tasks. They can be found either with solid wood bases for a traditional appeal or with metal frames for a more modern look. Artists in home studios or creative workshops prefer drawing tables due to their portable size and purpose for drawing and creative activities.
Adjustable Angle
The drafting table has an adjustable angle feature that can be inclined from a flat position up to 45 degrees or more in tiny degree increments. Such an adjustable tabletop feature is highly useful to drafters and drafts persons for drawing on a flat surface as well as technical drafting that demands perspective or curvature. Easy adjustment without much effort or tool use is a key consideration for many models, often realized through notched or hydraulic mechanisms.
Height Adjustment
The height adjustability of the drafting table is a major consideration when buying a drafting table. Such a feature allows the user to alter the height of the working surface from around 28 to 40 inches, thus making it convenient for people of different heights and working positions. One can instead stand when drawing or drafting, which is always helpful to do on an adjustable height drafting table. Most modern height-adjustable drafting tables use gas lifts or manual knobs to help with that.
Legs Adjustable
Foot and top members (leg) adjustable features are rarely met in drafting tables, but some high-end models offer this facility so the user can adjust the angle of the legs and, hence, the table's level. This feature is very important if even the slightest change in the table's level can distort the drawing. Leg adjustment systems often come with built-in levelers that allow easy adjustments over the height of each leg separately, something fine for uneven floors.
Flatness Adjustable
The adjustable flatness feature is done to assure the top remains flat as it should even as the angles change. Some drafting tables, particularly the more sophisticated ones, have a mechanism that lets them adjust the tautness of the surface to keep it flat over time or compensate for the paper or drafting board warp. This is especially critical in fields where precision is paramount, such as engineering and architectural design.
Material Quality
The materials used in constructing a drafting table govern its life span. A drafting table made of solid wood or steel will last longer than those made with MDF or plastic laminate. Solid wood, in particular, is renowned for its strength and ability to stand the test of time. Steel frames are additionally sturdy and do not warp, even under a heavy load of usage.
Water and Scratch Resistance
The top surface of most drafting tables is made with laminate or tempered glass. Both materials are quite resistant to future scratches, water, and other spills, hence preserving proper working conditions onto the surface. Laminated tops may also be beneficial in preventing reflective glare, contributing positively to the drafting environment. Glass tops, on the other hand, are more challenging in cleaning but may be prone to occasional chipping if poorly handled.
Weight Capacity and Joint Strength
Drafting tables are constructed to support weight without bending or cracking. A well-designed table is capable of supporting a variety of weights – be it books, drawing supplies, or heavy drafting instruments. Additionally, the sturdiness of the joints between the table frame and base, as well as the top, is indicative of possible longevity.
Mechanism Quality
The quality of the adjustable mechanisms, whether notched, hydraulic, or gas-lift, affects the durability of a drafting table. Poorly designed mechanisms might wear out over time and become difficult to use. In contrast, durable and well-engineered forms of mechanisms are likely to complete their adaptations and adjustments over several years without breakdowns.
Commercial vs Hobby Use
A drafting table built for professional or commercial use is generally more durable compared to those intended for guiding the hobbyists or the home user. Professional tables are designed with strength and durability in mind, as they bear the brunt of daily usage in architectural firms, engineering consultancies, or art studios. Tables constructed for home use may not use as strong materials or designs assuming lighter use.
Requirement
What is the first factor in determining the selection of a drafting table? A few things to consider are what this space will be used for, whether it's architecture or art. Depending on a person's preference, one would also need to consider the space available. Compact drafting tables might be needed for small homes or studios, whereas extensive professional spaces might accommodate larger ones.
Adjustable
The adjustability of the drafting table is also important. A table with numerous angles for adjustment – even beyond vertical – and variable height are highly beneficial to those who require much flexibility in their work. In drafting, drafting tables with mechanical variations and adjustments are, in fact, more convenient and offer enhanced durability for long usage times.
Material and Build
The material which goes into constructing the drafting table determines its lifetime. Drafting tables made of solid wood, or with steel frames, are typically more durable than their counterparts made of plastic or particleboard. One should also consider the material used in making the top surface – drafting tables with laminate, veneer, or glass surfaces are recommended due to their flat surface and ease of cleaning.
Price and budgets correlate with the decision-making process when selecting products for drafting tables. There are drafting tables at different price levels, and while the professional drafting table may be more expensive, it offers more features and is more durable than home-use drafting tables. It is worth investing in a good quality drafting table if it is to be used daily for long periods.
Portability
If the drafting table needs to be moved regularly, a foldable or heightadjustable movable table is preferred. Most drafting tables are portable with wheels or light frames, thus easily moved from one place to another.
A1: The drafting table is commonly built of wooden, steel, or laminated materials. It often comes with a tilt surface – an adjustable flat drafting table comes with an adjustable flat drafting table surface that can be adjusted in a vertical position from 0 to 45 degrees.
A2: The primary distinction between a drafting table and a regular table is that a drafting table comes with more features and adjustments. A drafting table is used for designing and drawing and has several adjustments to the height and angle of the tabletop.
A3: While selecting a drafting table, a few primary factors to consider are: drafting table size, drafting table surface, and drafting table height. Safety is also important: Opt for materials without sharp corners and potentially harmful substances.
A4: Yes. There are drafting tables intended for small spaces. They usually possess a simpler design and possibly more than one function.
A5: The top surface of a drafting table is usually made of laminate, veneer, or glass. Glass keeps the surface flat and is highly reflective, while laminate prevents glare and is less likely to scratch. Both are easy to clean and help provide a smooth, precise surface for drafting.
