Creative Ways to Use an Antique Drafting Table
5 Creative Ways to Use an Antique Drafting Table
Has your old
drafting table seen better days? Don't leave it in the corner taking up space, and certainly don't throw it out! Instead, you can continue to let its rich history grow by giving it a new life in your home. With some innovative thinking and minor modifications, you can repurpose an
antique drafting table into a classic conversation piece for your home. Here are five creative uses that will inspire you to get started.
1. Message Board
While your
antique drafting table may look a little rough around the edges, its functionality has not diminished over time. You can easily turn an old
drafting desk into a message hub for your whole family by making a few simple additions. Consider adding some clips, a calendar and a small whiteboard or chalkboard to create a shared information center.
2. Artist's Table
A
drafting table is good for more than creating detailed architectural drawings. Even if it has seen better days, you can still use an old
drafting table for many kinds of art, like drawing or painting. You may even want to pass your table along to a younger family member to encourage their artistic pursuits while keeping the antique piece in your family.
3. Standing Desk
Modern standing desks are expensive, but you can easily create your own using the
antique drafting table you already have. Simply adjust the table to a comfortable height and make the top level to create a healthy alternative workspace for using your laptop or filling out paperwork.
4. Display Table
Is there a better way to display your antiques and collectibles than with an
antique drafting table? Not only is this a practical use of resources, but it is also a great way to create a focal piece in your home. You could even use the table to display heirloom sketches, blueprints or maps.
5. Artwork Easel
You can breathe new life into an old
drafting table by repurposing it into an artwork easel to display your favorite paintings or prints. Using a
drafting desk is a subtle way to accent your own artwork or the work of your favorite artist.
EngineerSupply is a leading supplier of architectural, engineering and construction products, and we have a long history of delivering quality products to our happy customers. If you're ready to repurpose your old
drafting table and are in the market for a beautiful new one, EngineerSupply has you covered. Browse our
huge selection of top models today!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the uses of an antique drafting table?
The possibilities for repurposing an
antique drafting table are endless. You can create a message board, standing desk, display table, artwork easel and so much more. If you have an old
drafting table collecting dust, let your creative juices flow and find a tasteful and unique use that solves a problem or achieves a goal in your home.
How do I clean my antique drafting table?
To safely clean your
antique drafting table, start with mild soap and a soft rag. Moving with the wood grain, gently rub the table to remove dirt and built-up debris. You can also use a soft toothbrush to clean grooves and other hard-to-reach spots, but you should avoid hard scrubbing so you don't damage the wood. If soap doesn't cut the gunk, you might want to try a wood oil or wax paste. When you're happy with the cleanliness of the table, carefully dry it off and finish with a light application of furniture polish to protect the wood.
Where can I find an antique drafting table?
If you don't have an
antique drafting table of your own, but want one for a fun project, don't worry. You might find old drafting tables at garage sales, estate sales and thrift stores. You may even find one sitting out on someone's curb, so keep your eyes open! If you're willing to spend a little more, there are many antique options for sale online.
How much does an antique drafting table cost?
The cost of an
antique drafting table varies depending on where you find it. Tables for sale at garage sales, estate sales and thrift stores may cost $100 or less, while tables purchased from antique dealers or online sellers tend to cost considerably more, some fetching thousands of dollars.
What is the height of a drafting table?
Drafting table heights vary, but the average height of a
drafting table is 36 inches. However, the height is adjustable on many of them to allow a custom fit for the user.
Best Drafting Tables
The Studio Design Vision is a two-piece table. The desk boasts a glass top made of tempered blue safety glass, allowing you an easy and safe experience no matter how much pressure you apply while making your lines. The frame of the table is made from powder coated steel of a heavy guage, meaning the desk is durable and sturdy. The table also features a number of removable trays for any supplies you might need to have handy while working on a piece.
A flat table is far from preferable when it comes to drawing or drafting. In fact, professionals know that the best kind of desk is one that has a tilted surface. The Safco 3965MO is an adjustable station that allows you full control over the angle at which the top sits. This makes it much easier to tackle complicated drawings where you need to make lines that would otherwise be putting your body through difficult positions. Give your muscles a break with a split-level desk that boasts a strong frame and design.
The Avanta is another excellent option produced by Studios Designs. The contemporary drafting desk boasts a sleek look that doesn’t sacrifice function for style. The glass top of the desk is both strong and adjustable, allowing you the comfort of changing the angle to suit whatever project you’re currently taking on. The desk also features convenient storage, meaning you won’t need to constantly get up and down to grab the supplies you require.
Some features can be invaluable when it comes to drafting. The Triflex by Studio Designs boasts a design that allows you a perfect way to maximize comfort and productivity. The simple table can be adjusted up to 22 degrees in a standing position, providing you with a full range of movement. A versatile and innovative option for those in the field of drawing.
Anyone interested in adding a unique piece to their homes or offices should consider the Ponderosa. Another classic design by Studio Designs, this drafting option has a classic look that can easily blend in with modern settings. The wood frame gives the desk a one-of-a-kind feel without cutting back on durability or usefulness. The table can be adjusted easily into 8 different positions, providing you with a number of angles to use to your advantage.
Some environments invoke a classic feel, meaning the furniture placed within the room should match the style. If you want to create an air of sophistication with your drawing table, then consider the Studio Designs Vintage. Not only will this beautiful desk look fantastic in your home or office, it also offers ample workspace and a durable frame constructed of both wood and metal.
Stability is important for those who spend long hours drawing. Should your desk wobble while making a vital mark on blueprints, for example, it could lead to some major disasters on an engineering front. Thankfully, you won’t need to worry about this with the Fusion by Studio Designs. This model offers floor levelers that increases stability and ensures you will not be making simple mistakes due to a faulty piece of furniture.
The Graphix II Pro Line by Studio Designs is another desk that is designed to meet the unique needs of engineers, architects, and artists. The desk offers visual appeal, with a wide surface that can be adjusted to whatever angle the user requires. Additionally, the frame is made from heavy-gauge steel, which means the desk will be able to endure whatever you throw at it. In addition to having control over the angle of the surface, you can also adjust the height to meet your preferences.
Sometimes, the best option is the one that is the most simple. When you opt for the Futur-Matic by Mayline, you’re getting a quality piece of furniture that is made to make your life easier. The design of the table is both durable and adjustable, meaning you will have no trouble changing the height and slant of the desk without difficulty. From design to function, the Futur-Matic provides a straightforward and effective way of getting down to business without pause.
A desk needs to do more than simple look good in your space. It should also aid in increasing your productivity. The Safco Precision is such an option, allowing you to take advantage of a piece with a traditional style and modern features. Stay organized and motivated with a design that helps you with everything from storage to durability. The table can also be adjusted to meet your requirements, providing you with plenty of positions to work with.
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