You can use 2x4's or 4x4" for the legs of the table. Brace them by adding a shelf underneath with more plywood and 2x4's.

The metal shelving units make great table bases because you have all that storage plus if you need to move it you can take it apart easily.

In my drapery workroom one of my tables has acoustical ceiling tiles covered with padding and canvas. The other table has Celotex with padding and canvas. Both work great. The Celotex comes in 4x8 sheets so there are less joins and a smoother surface. In some areas you might see this call Homosote.

I would not recommend the styrofoam type insulation board. It will crush.

The muslin or canvas cover enables you to iron on it (just like an ironing board). It also give you a good pinning surface.

Best of luck with your new table!
Susan

I wouldn't use a cutting surface that has any give. You wont get the exact cuts you need. I have a hard surface and use a gridded cutting mat when using a knife or roller cutter.

for pressing I have a masonite board with many layers or wool batting and then muslin. that just sits on a table I have.

Hi Tavernhill. I own a drapery workroom in n.e. TN. if you want to connect and share, I can be reached at Johaninteriors@verizon.net and my web is johaninteriors.com
Joan

My mom used a 4x8 sheet of masonite as her cutting surface; I liked it. It had a hard surface for pinning (I wouldn't like to pin on cloth, actually; I'm afraid the pins will catch on it).

When I'm rich, I'm going to get a cutting table made with custom-print laminate in almond, w/ a light gray 1-inch grid! Or, maybe just almond laminate.