Drafting tables, originally known in many regions as “draughting” tables, are elaborate desks used for many purposes, including cartography, or the art of map drawing. Today, drafting tables still serve a variety of functions, but they are commonly associated with an architect drawing up a blueprint. While drafting tables make perfect surfaces for such work, or any other work that requires more space than a typical desk, they also offer other valuable features.

As times changed, so did the needs of those using these tables. Over time, drawing desks developed the ability to be used while either sitting or standing. The tabletop surface would now pivot from completely horizontal to totally vertical. This allowed artists, architects, and engineers alike to be able to make their table work specifically for their particular needs.

With all of this history behind them, it is no wonder that antique drafting tables remain highly popular today. If the history of the desk can be traced and documented, the value goes up dramatically. Many people truly enjoy working at a table with so much incredible history behind it. The fact that these older desks were so sturdy and well built, means that they are often passed down within families from one generation to the next.

Of course, when looking to acquire one of these beauties, one has to be prepared. First of all, one has to have room for these. Owing to their primary function as a table for drawing on large sheets of paper, these tables can take up a lot of space. Most antiques will also probably be made from hardwoods a sturdy floor that can support its weight is essential, especially when the table is going to be placed on an upper floor. Also, proper spacing between the table and the other pieces of furniture in the room, say, shelves, desks, or chairs, is important. There is something about a cluttered room that distracts from the otherwise charming appeal of an antique.

Drafting tables are available in many different styles and models, from the very simple to the elaborate, from portable to stationary. They can be contemporary or very traditional, and antique drafting tables are often used as furnishings and art pieces as much as they are for function. Tops for drafting tables are available in a variety of materials, from glass and wood to plastic and metal.

Get at least a 30″ x 40″ table, unless you are cramped for space. Measure your available space (footprint) before you buy. Allow an extra 3-4 feet for room for the stool and yourself. You may need extra table-top space for supplies that you want on hand but you don’t want to slide off if you tilt the top. I have seen one model that has a 12″ wide section that doesn’t tilt. I want that one, but it’s much harder to find.

Drafting tables were the original ergonomic worktable. Many a Victorian gentleman had a beautiful brass-trimmed oak-drafting table in his study or library. It was fully adjustable so that he could work either sitting or standing, and he could adjust the table top from vertical to horizontal and any comfortable working angle in between.

If you have to fold it up and away, you need a sturdy tabletop. The one I bought before was made of particle board, and if it bumped a corner, it would get a dent in it. You want to keep the surface as smooth and flat as possible. Luckily the only dings I got in it were on the edges. I was really amazed at how fragile it was.

I was a professional drafter for 8 years and have used all sorts of tables for that purpose, including tables up to 6 feet in length with drafting machines and electronic lifts, etc. Here are some observations I think about, now that I am shopping for my next one.

If you have to fold it up and away, you need a sturdy tabletop. The one I bought before was made of particle board, and if it bumped a corner, it would get a dent in it. You want to keep the surface as smooth and flat as possible. Luckily the only dings I got in it were on the edges. I was really amazed at how fragile it was.