Dressmaking table that’s expandable and storable

This is simply the NORDEN drop leaf table with some leg extensions and casters. I used it as a conveniently storable table for tracing out patterns and cutting cloth for home dressmaking.

norden-gateleg-table
Photo: IKEA.com

In total the dressmaking table is raised 16cm. It is important to get casters with brakes so the table doesn’t move, when in use.

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Related: IKEA NORDEN Gateleg Table made mobile


I used some steel brackets which have a screw about 6mm diameter fixed to them, which goes into the extension piece. I drilled two holes right through the legs and used 2 X M5 countersunk bolts secured with nuts because I thought wood screws might tear out.

This wasn’t enough to keep the extension pieces from pivoting slightly, so I added some plates secured with wood screws.

The end result is not elegant but is acceptable for a workbench. The hack could also be improved by using smaller casters which would have room to swivel properly.

~ by Adam M. Lewis


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sewing room cutting table

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