Need some info regarding a worktable. The worktable will sit against a wall that's about 13 feet long. Open at one end and a wall at the other end. The table will be used mostly for applying vinyl to signs & banners. I have the Webber 36" double roll tape dispenser. What size table do you use? Do you prefer metal or wood? Do you make them yourselves? If not, where do you get them? What are the pros & cons of using a mat? Thanks for you input & advice.
Posted by Mike Pipes (Member # 1573) on :
My table is wood.. 2x4's for legs, 2x6's for a box frame at the top, piece of glass for the top and a fuorescent light inside the frame. Works as a taping/weeding table, then turn on the light and it makes multi-color registration a snap and also functions as a tracing table.
Posted by E. Balch (Member # 3545) on :
Our work tables start with a 4x8 sheet of plywood then we add some 2x4 supports, 4x4 legs and some shelves underneath for storage. The work surface is one of those cutting mats. By the time we are done you can tapdance across the table without moving it. Make sure it's tall enough to work at without killing your back.
ernie
Posted by Glenn Taylor (Member # 162) on :
There was an episode on the New Yankee Workshop concerning worktables that I found very interesting. They were strong but lightweight and had a unique way of putting wheels on the bottom.
I have made two tables for premasking and or weeding (15" & 24"). Both are portable due to the nature of my work and both have a version of my homemade premask applicator made from an old paper roll holder.One trick I have found is to attach small flourescent work lights underneath a small shelf below eye level and above the table leaving room to work.This makes it alot easier to see cut lines in the vinyl,especially the lighter colors and blocks the glare from your eyes focusing it on your work area. It also serves as a good place to store tools needed for the tasks at hand.
As for applying graphics I use a tradional lettering easel.
[ February 22, 2003, 01:02 PM: Message edited by: timi NC ]
Posted by Rick Whitmire (Member # 3443) on :
Robert, Tables are items that stay in your shop along time...used daily, and every one sees, (in my shop anyways)... when we made ours, we built them 4'x8' with 4x4 posts in the corners & centers. we used steel Wheels IMPORTANT if you want them mobil (and why not it gives you flexibility).Build them strong with screws and glue keeping them squaire when building. Also you might want to add a self healing cutting surface. Also consider the underneath shelving for storage... We have three in our shop, one with a light table built inside. Build with function in mind but also apearance for visitors. Good luck. Rick @ Trick Rick @ Trick
Posted by Si Allen (Member # 420) on :
I built 2 work tables on casters.they are 3 1/2 x 7 1/2 ft ... that makes them great for coating out 4x8s AND the edges. i used "deck screws" instead of nails
Posted by Debi Lovelady (Member # 3663) on :
my husband is building one right now that is 20' long. it will be used mainly for weeding and transfer tape apllication. he bought regular cabinets with drawers and selves for storage and the top wil be plywood with the self healing mat.
i like the idea of the light table built in. i am sure to tell him about that. also he has build a long drawer under the table top for holding scrap peices flat in(rolled scrape are a problem). the drawer size is 8'x24"...oh the table to is 32"wide our standard roll size in vinyl is 24".
Debi (my first time here)
Posted by Tom Bahr (Member # 2925) on :
I have a 1920's Brunswick 9' pool table in my shop. Weighs about 700lb. I made a top for it with 2x4's for the frame which rests on the felt. 1" plywood for the top. The frame fits inside the bumpers like a glove & the top extends over the rails by 2". I have a full "self healing" mat on the top. The table is protected from harm with this design, but my game has slipped since this top rarely comes off anymore for a challenge.
Posted by Robert Richards (Member # 3244) on :
Thanks for the input. I'll be building one soon and use as many of your ideas as I can.
