Types and Styles of Drafting Tables


When it comes to drafting table styles, there's a design for every purpose and a purpose for every design. The drafting tables at DraftingTables.com are separated into four different types (five, if you include light tables), and there are also material and size distinctions that create different drafting table styles within each category. Here's a quick guide to all the types and styles of drafting tables we offer.

Height and Width and Base Material
Most of our drafting tables are designed with a fixed height of either 30 or 37 inches. If you're using a standard office chair, 30 inches will be your best choice, but if you own a pneumatically adjustable drafting chair or drafting stool, 37 inches will be more comfortable for you.

Shain Drafting Table

Drafting table width will likely be determined less by style than by the type of work you do and the size of your office. The table top widths of our drafting tables vary from 30 to 60 inches or more.

A final point of style is drafting table material. Wood is the traditional choice. Wooden drafting tables are sturdy and reliable and offer a charming visual complement to traditional office decors. Steel is the modern choice, as most fully adjustable drafting tables feature a steel base.

Types of Drafting Tables

  • CPU Compatible Drafting Tables
    CPU compatible drafting tables are the obvious solution for those involved with computer aided drafting and design (CAD or CADD). The increased ease of having your computer and manual drafting areas in the same space is not only the logical ergonomic choice, but also preserves additional room for office accessories such as flat files.
  • Split Top Drafting Tables
    Most split top drafting tables are CPU compatible drafting tables, but not all. Split top drafting tables can also be useful for artists or drafters who like to have their tools close by or who switch frequently from one color, tool, or drawing medium to another. Several of our split top drafting tables take advantage of the design by also including a handy tool drawer.
  • Solid Top Drafting Tables
    A solid top drafting table is the image most people think of when they hear the term drafting table. Solid top drafting tables focus exclusively on work space, providing the maximum surface area possible for drawing or drafting. For work that demands the utmost in flexibility, choose a solid top drafting table with a work surface that can adjust a full 90 degrees.
  • Adjustable Height Drafting Tables
    Some people are most creative when they're sitting, others while they're standing. For those who like both, there's the adjustable height drafting table. Our adjustable height drafting tables offer height flexibility from eight to 18 inches depending on the model. If you need a different perspective or just want to get out of your chair for a while, your adjustable height drafting table can stretch right along with you.