Top 10 Best Drafting Table (For Artists & Architects)

Drafting tables have been designed to specifically cater to the needs of architects, engineers, and those who must engage in mechanical drawing. These tables are also commonly used by artists who need s durable and level workstation.

Not all drafting tables have been created equally!

Each table on this list has been selected based on qualities like ease of use, construction and material quality, suitability for professional use, and more.

Let’s take a look!

Stand Up Desk Birch Top Table – Standing Drafting Table With Height Adjustable Design

If you’re in need of a versatile drafting table with a height adjustable design, this is a good option to consider.

The height adjustable features allow for a wide range of applicable task abilities and can be used as a standing and sitting desk.

This lets you save your back and posture so you can draft standing to apply pressure as you draw, or sit comfortably for relaxed drafting.

You’ll find that this drafting table has been designed to enhance your productivity throughout the day.

You’ll be able to enjoy increased focus and calorie burning while safeguarding against the risks which come from sitting in the wrong position as you create designs for long hours.

Many user-friendly features have been worked into the design of this drafting table. Oversized thumb screws allow for quick and easy adjustment of angles and height.

Large rubber feet give you a stable platform.

The sturdy and robust construction of this table makes it a reliable option as well.

The steel frame and powder coat finish have been integrated into the design to help this drafting table to withstand the rigors of everyday use. Finally, the gorgeous birch finish and silver accents make this table look stylish and attractive.

Tangkula Adjustable Drafting Table – Adjustable Drawing Table With Drawers

This drawing table is great because it allows you to store your materials easily. It can be used for a variety of applications.

The adjustable design allows you to set the angle to your exact specifications. It also has been made with quality materials.

It features a dense metal frame and 18mm density board so it will last a long time.

This is also a unique option as it has a side tray which provides you with a convenient way to store pens and pencils.

The side drawers offer even more storage space.

You could use this desk as a drafting table, as a regular desk, to paint, draw, or even do certain crafts.

If you want a drafting table that can serve many other purposes later on down the road, this would be a good option to consider.

On the downside, it hasn’t been designed specifically for architectural or engineering purposes.

It definitely isn’t a professional drafting table. While it will work for drafting, it doesn’t have the same feel as some of the other high-end professional tables out there.

Still, if you need something that could potentially be used by many people for years to come, this desk would work.

Studio Designs Model 13220 – Adjustable Folding Glass Top Drawing Table

Here’s a table that has truly been crafted with quality and user functionality in mind.

It has a sturdy and thick glass top that gives it a classy and professional feeling.

The main work surface is also large, measuring 35.25 W x 23.75 D.

The tempered safety glass top is a blue color that works amazingly when used as a light table.

It has 6 different adjustment angles which range from flat to 35 degrees. The four removable side trays are awesome for storing your supplies.

This table has been created using heavy gauge steel construction so it’s very durable.

We particularly like the attention to detail that can be seen with this table.

It’s totally level so you can trust that you won’t be veering off at an arch as you draw. Additionally, this drafting table is versatile.

You can adjust the angles and use it as a light board, making it work for a variety of purposes. It’s a fantastic option for tracing of any kind.

The only disadvantage of this table is its assembly.

This table takes quite a while to put together and you’ll need to pay close attention to the included instructions.

Darice Studio 71 Arts Creative Table – Compact Station For Artists, Professionals, And More

The Darice Studio 71 Arts Creative Table is a particularly versatile art center that has been equipped with many impressive user features.

For starters, it has multiple slides and drawers for material and supply storage.

You could potentially set paintbrushes and paint supplies on one slide shelf, keep pens and pencils in the other easy-access storage slide, and store everything else that you could possibly need in either of the two large storage drawers.

This really is an art center that has it all. A subtle yet sophisticated design makes it an attractive option that would match just about any preexisting furniture.

The huge work surface allows you to create and adjust large projects easily and conveniently. It has four different levels of stability as well.

This is an awesome option for artists of all kinds and could be utilized to serve many functions. However, it only adjusts from 27 to 36 inches in height which may be frustrating for some users.

It also isn’t the largest table out there, which can be a benefit and a disadvantage. On the one hand, it fits easily in small spaces.

On the other hand, if you need more room for drafting you may want to find something larger.

The table surface measures 34 by 24 inches in size.

OneSpace Craft Station – Glass Drafting Table With Item Storage

Functionality and appeal are masterfully combined in this drafting table.

It’s large, durable, has blue tempered safety glass, silver accents, and a heavy-duty steel frame.

It really has managed to combine value and style in an impressive way.

Not only that, but this drafting table has plenty of room for any small items and drawing materials to be easily stored.

It even adjusts easily from flat to 62.5 degrees as well!

This may just be one of the best values on our list. Not only is this drafting table sleek and easily adaptive, but it also allows you to conveniently keep all of your materials easily in reach as you work.

The removable supply trays won’t fall out when you raise the table at any angle either. You’ll find that the ample work surface allows you to have plenty of space and range.

This table is so easy to use and convenient, it’s really hard to believe that it comes at such a low price. On the downside, this table is difficult to assemble.

The instructions are somewhat vague and you’ll have to be on your toes. However, if you can get it put together, you really can’t do much better as far as price goes.

U.S. Art Supply Grand Solana – Great For Painters Or Sketching Artists On-The-Go

This is a unique and sturdy option for artists who must travel.

It isn’t designed for professional drafting, but it would work in a pinch.

It has a smart design with three drawers that folds in on itself for easy carrying.

The intelligent design allows you to take this easel with you and set it up pretty much anywhere.

It’s also lightweight so you can set it on any tabletop and start drawing or painting quickly. The construction is durable the storage drawers slide pretty well.

It’s a smaller option, folding to 15.75″ wide by 10.25″ deep by 4.5″ high. When fully extended, this easel will accommodate canvas art and prints up to 12″ by 16″.

The German Beachwood is a pleasant color that matches most surroundings so you could potentially set this easel up at home as well.

This easel also comes at a great value. It is the least expensive option on our list.

However, for professional engineers who need a stable work surface for mechanical drawing, this is not a great option.

It’s simply too mobile and not heavy enough to give you the stability you may require for professional blueprints or drafts.

On the flipside, if you need a portable workstation for sketching or painting, this thing works great and won’t break the bank.

ZENY Glass Top Adjustable Drawing Desk – Inexpensive Option For Painters And Mechanical Artists

Have you been looking for an inexpensive drafting table for mechanical drawing that will function well without draining your bank account?

Look no further. This is a great choice for almost any artist or sketch specialist.

It’s large enough for big projects, tall enough for users of all heights, could be utilized sitting or standing, and has tons of useful features that make the lives of artists easier.

All that for a price that simply can’t be beaten. The height adjusts from 31.5″ to 49.5″ which makes this a convenient option for taller users.

The angles adjust from 0 to 60 degrees so you can make it face you pretty flat when the need arises.

We also love the way that this drafting table goes mobile. You could potentially roll it from room to room for presentations or lighting adjustment.

It also can save you a lot of space.

It has ample storage with two slide trays and two large drawers for supply storage. When you’re not using it, you can just roll it conveniently out of the way.

When in use, the 360º Swivel caster wheels lock into place. Finally, this table is super easy to put together.

The only downside of this product is its stability. The wheels make it a bit unsteady for super technical and precise drawing.

However, it’s hardly noticeable as this table weighs 99 pounds. Only very experienced mechanical drafters would notice the movement and even then, they may not have an issue with it.

For the price, you really can’t do better.

Studio Designs 36 X 24-Inch Vintage Drafting Table – A Gorgeous Wooden Option That Would Be Ideal For Studio Use

This is a classic and lovely option for anyone who wants a no-nonsense wooden drafting table.

It sits tall and is made of solid oak hardwood for total minimization of motion and steady stability.

The main work surface is expansive and you’ll have plenty of room for any number of projects.

It is also very aesthetically appealing. This drafting table would look at home in your studio or even in a professional work environment.

It’s simply wonderful to lay eyes on.

The old-fashioned appeal of this drafting table will take you back to simpler days. There aren’t any distracting elements or overstated features. It’s a high-end option for professionals and leisure artists alike.

It features a built-in pencil groove with a 24 pencil ledge so you can have a few supplies on-hand.

The antique finished surface adjusts from 0 to a full 90 degrees. This makes it a super versatile option.

All around, a gorgeous and utility-friendly vintage option for minimalists who are all about their art. The only disadvantage is its lack of storage space.

However, if you are a minimalist, the simplicity and no-frills design is a good thing.

ZENY Height Adjustable Drafting Draft Desk – Drawing Table And Tilt Desk Combo With Storage

This is a quality desk that doubles as a drafting board and has been fitted with many useful features.

It has legs and components of powder coated iron and the work surface is a thick composite wood with a smooth finish.

It has an industrial professional vibe that would work in a studio, office, or at home in your living room.

Two large drawers and a convenient slide allow for plenty of storage.

You can keep your paint brushes, paints, pens, ink, pencils, paper, and other important materials easily at the reach of your fingertips.

An additional shelf on the bottom lets you keep other important art accessories on hand while a side slide shelf lets you keep paint water or coffee in a flat and level position even as you tilt the work surface.

It’s a very durable option that can take a lot of weight. You may think that such a complex design would be difficult to assemble but this drawing desk is surprisingly easy to put together and to use.

The overall dimensions are 55″ x 23.62″ x 28″-35.8″ with a large work table surface of 34″ x 23.62″.

The tilting dimensions of the work surface range from 0 – 45 degrees. This is a bit of a letdown, as we would have liked to see this table tilt a bit higher.

However, for most drawing applications, this desk works well. It is not a good option for painters who wish to stand as they work.

STUDIO DESIGNS Comet Center – All-In-One Art Center

Are you looking for an all-in-one desk and art studio that comes at a good price?

If so, this may be a great choice for you to take into consideration.

This is a drafting and art desk combination that comes with three side drawers, a foot rest area, a tilting drawing board surface, and a stool.

You will get everything that you need to set up a smart creative space in your home, office, or classroom.

It has more than enough space for most art supplies and has been designed to be used for a variety of artistic functions. The stool is padded and comes in an attractive slate gray color that matches the desk and drawers.

The work surface tilts up to 20 degrees. The only disadvantages of this center are its medium-quality design and difficult assembly. The overall design isn’t exactly high-end.

This art center probably won’t last a lifetime. Additionally, this thing is complex and will take a while to put together.

However, if you want something that comes with everything needed to set up an impromptu art center anywhere, it would be a good option.

It’s also the only desk and drawing table combination on our list that includes a stool.

Best Drafting Table – Buyer’s Guide

Now that we have taken a look at some of the best drafting table options out there, we will take some time to answer some of your most frequently asked questions.

What type of chair do you recommend using?

• The kind of chair that can be used for drafting will depend on a few factors. What is the height of the drafting table that you’re working with? Do you have any back issues or lumbar support specifications? There’s lots of debate surrounding this drafting chair question.

• Generally, you will want to choose a chair or stool that will be comfortable after sitting in it for long periods of time. You’ll need a proper fit and quality construction. You may also wish to find a chair with good height adjustability.

A few great drafting chairs are:

• The Eurotech Seating Apollo DFT9800 Drafting Chair
• The Harwick Evolve Heavy Duty Drafting Chair
• The Modway Edge Drafting Chair
• The Poly and Bark Tremaine Drafting Chair
• The Boss Office Products B1647 Drafting Chair

What is the best light or lamp to use with a drafting table?

• Once again, this will depend on your specific preferences. That being said, you will want to be sure to have ample light as poor lighting can cause strain on your eyes and headaches. You will also need a lamp that is tall enough and flexible enough to be correctly positioned over your drafting space.

Glass VS Wood: What is the best material for a drafting board work surface?

• This will be entirely up to you as an artist. Both surface materials have many benefits. Let’s take a look at a few.

Wood:

Wood is stable and durable. It provides a steady surface with a slight amount of surface friction for sketching and drawing. Many users prefer the weight and feel of wood because it’s more natural.

Wood can also have a vintage and quality feel that brings certain style elements to a workspace.

Glass:

This is once again a question of user preference. Generally, most artists find that an angle of 30-40 degrees works well.

However, many people choose to simply draw on a flat surface.

In some situations, you may wish to assume a standing position and draw at angles ranging from 45-65 degrees.

This can be good for your neck and back. Many painters will actually paint at 80 degrees standing up. Finding the perfect position for you is a process of trial and error.

An adjustable drafting board should allow you to easily move angles until you settle on the one that fits you best.

• Choose an angle that makes you feel comfortable.
• Your angle should not strain your hand.
• Be sure to pick an angle that allows you to transfer your visualizations correctly.

For more on what angle to set your drafting surface to, click here.

Can I resurface a drafting table?

This will depend on what kind of material the surface is made from. Obviously, you can’t do much with iron and glass. Wooden tables can be resurfaced in certain situations. When considering resurfacing, keep in mind that a totally flat surface is a must. This can be difficult to achieve by following a DIY guide on the internet. If you do wish to resurface a drafting table, you may wish to seek professional assistance. For more on resurfacing wooden tables, click here.

Final Words

So there you have it. These are some of the best drafting table options available for the price and quality.

This comprehensive guide has been completed with ample research and based on real-life user [reference. We hope that this list has given you a few great products to consider!

What drafting tables have worked best for you in the past? Are there any impressive options missing from our list? We want to hear from you; please feel free to leave us your feedback or bring up any questions that we’ve not answered.