Table Cut-Out Dimensions For An Old Machine

[CustomDoug]

I'm thinking about replacing the old ratty table top that my Singer 31-15 is installed in, and want to get it before I get the servo motor (can only afford one thing at a time). So I will need an industrial style table top with a K leg base. I've found one of these combos local and used (but in really good shape) for $95. Unfortunately the cut out opening for the machine is described as 16" X 7&1/8". It doesn't look custom, just standard in my opinion. Measuring the 31-15 shows it to be 18&3/4" X 7". I own a jigsaw and a router and fill like removing the extra 2&3/4" length wouldn't be a big deal... but is it enough of a savings (over new) to bother. Also, does the 31-15 just have a really long base or maybe old machines do, in general? Is there a standard sizing for modern table top cutouts?

Edited September 13, 2011 by CustomDoug

[Wayne E]

From my readings, I have encountered a few various table sizes that come with the standard "K" legs. Usually, you'll see tables that are made to fit Juki machines and then another that would fit a Consew along with a few other brands. I'm not sure if you could find one that fits a Singer 31-15 nowadays. I suspect that what you might see is just tables that fit newer machines. Plus, the new tops seem to all be made of particle board with some form of laminate on the surface. The original table for the 31-15, I believe, was made out strips of solid hardwood that were glued together and then stained and or varnished. Or, at least the top for my 31-15 is that way. Plus, the mounting for the motor could be slightly different with the newer servo motor as opposed to the older (I'm assuming G.E. motor).

I wish I could trace a template of all the hole openings of my table top as I feel that this is probably what you need to get yourself properly situated.

[CustomDoug]

I gotta do some thinking on this... unless someone makes a top that will specifically fit my machine then I may have to make the top myself anyway. Though I really don't need another project. I just called the seller and the recesses for the hinges are routed closer together than my machine needs. Not that new recesses can't be routed but at least if the hinges fit without modification then I'd only have to elongate the machine footprint.

[Gregg From Keystone Sewing]

Table tops 48X20" that fit a 31-15 are amung the most common tops avaible, that fit many, many makes and models, same as Singer 111W, Juki LU-563, Consew 206RB, and dozens, really hundreds of model machines. I have both import and domestic plywood tops $55/65 per top.

[CustomDoug]

See, I thought with so many of these machines around that there'd be a common top for them, thanks for the info. Gregg when you say "plywood top", it sounds a little rough... is it a smooth finished surface or what? How much would a set of K legs run?

[Wayne E]

Doug,

I currently have the head removed from my table top of my Singer table. I'll take a picture tonight and post it to give you an idea of the hole layout. This might ensure we're all on the same page when discussing your top.

I hear you regarding making a new top ... not always the most fun. However, the Pfaff 463 that I bought has a warped top. I need to make a new top for that machine and, fortunately, I have enough leftover faux granite laminate to use to make it look like the prince of table tops. I love working with wood tools, but that mess that gets created in my garage from all the sawdust is not my favorite part of cleaning up when all is said and done.

Edited September 14, 2011 by Wayne E

[CustomDoug]

I currently have the head removed from my table top of my Singer table. I'll take a picture tonight and post it to give you an idea of the hole layout. This might ensure we're all on the same page when discussing your top.

Thanks wayne, but it's probably not necessary. I do have my current top to see the layout and to copy if need be. I'm just not wanting to go there. I have a shop table I gotta build already, and I'm not going to be able to get out of that one. Not to mention remodeling our front porch.