Architects, draftsmen and many artists find their drafting tables to be an indispensable part of their professional equipment. These tables have a hinged table top that can be set to a wide variety of working angles. The document or artwork is held in position on the angled surface by a lip running along the bottom edge of the top. Frequently there are also parallel rulers that hold the paper flat to the board. Lighting and any magnification devices can be clipped to the top of the board.

Before the Industrial Revolution, the drafting table was a fixture in a gentleman’s study. These tables were large pieces of furniture, ornately carved and made of oak and other heavy woods. They employed a lead weight to raise and lower the level of the table top or board. They were used for artwork and for reading newspapers and large books and folios.

With the Industrial Revolution came a switch in focus. Architecture and the arts were less likely to be pursued by wealthy amateurs and the professional artist and architect emerged as part of the workforce. The drafting table became part of the professional’s office, studio or workshop. These machines performed the same basic functions but were made of less costly materials.

They were also found to be a useful part of the clerks offices in the courthouses. Legal ledgers can be quite large and are difficult to handle or move. The drafting table’s upright position is ideal for this purpose. Libraries also use a fixed type for the display of newspapers and magazines.

They are still the design platform of choice for artists, designers, architects and engineers. There are many different styles and types to choose from. They range from very simple student versions to elaborate architect’s models.

Students can find a wide range of designs and models in online art supply store catalogs. The student table is usually relatively light-weight and simply designed. The tops are usually removable for easy transporting and are made of plywood with a scratch and cut resistant coating. The raising and lowering mechanism can range from primitive to relatively sophisticated depending on the price one is willing and or able to pay.

There’s a good selection of professional models on the market as well. Raising mechanisms can range from the traditional lead weight pulley system to mechanized or computerized forms which offer a high degree of accuracy and perform to exacting standards.

Whether you’re a student, an artist, an architect or draftsman, you’ll find your online research of Drafting Table will be invaluable in determining which one is right for you. There are many art and architecture supply stores listed online and many of them have catalogs with pictures, dimensions and full descriptions of each table. When selecting, consider where you will be using it and whether it should be portable or a fixed version. You may prefer a simpler model that can be easily dismantled or you may need a precision instrument. Then check the shipping charges. Is the machine shipped as one piece or do you have to assemble it? Doing the research fully before you make your decision will ensure you are pleased with your purchase.