Expert: Greg Scholl - 2/4/2010

Question
QUESTION: Will an A frame desk  with a top surface of a total of 47" ( with support of 2 more legs at the 24" mark) support a 25-30 lb. Sewing Machine.  The desk top is made of MDS Veneer.  there are two shelves built into the leg are of the remaining 23".  A seating area in under the 24" area.  Will the top of the desk begin to bow after  constant use?  Like some library shelves?  Thank You

ANSWER: Hi Marri, can you post a picture of this? Did you mean MDF (medium density fiberboard)? If the construction is 3/4" panels, it sounds like it might be ok for 25-30 lbs...but I'd like to see the actual piece if possible...thanks- Greg

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QUESTION: Thank you Greg...yes I ment MDF with Veneer.top.  I don,t know if it is 3/4 panels.  the photo is on the web site Overstock.com.  I don,t know if it is a copyrighted photo.

ANSWER: NO, photo's like this of a product are not copyrighted...you can "right click" on it and "save as" to your desktop, then post it here....or you can navigate to the page with the picture, and then copy and paste the web address into your next post.....that's easier- Greg

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QUESTION: Here it is Greg, and thanks for the instructions.

Answer
Hi Marri...that does not look like it's sturdy enough unless the machine will be located to the left of the knee hole opening...over the doubly supported area....even then, this is a very unsubstantial work surface and I would be worried about the top heaviness of this piece with a 30lb machine on it.....it's really to small to be sturdy over the long haul, and be aware that these pieces are not well made as a general rule.This type of costruction is very weak due to the "a" fram design, and the way the top attaches...if you have an "unfinished furniture" store near you, and you're looking for inexpensive, sturdy well made furniture, I would pay them a visit and describe what you're looking for. There is usually a wide range of well made (and not so well made)pieces available, made of solid wood and plywood that you'll find MUCH sturdier in construction.You'll have to finish the piece, or pay to have them finish it, but you need  a much sturdier piece for a worktable than this in my opinion. Here's a piece in Alder, (shown finished), notice the difference in construction, and the heft and design of this type of piece. This would make it strong enough for your 30lb machine without worrying. This is just one find in a quick online search, there are hundreds of similar pieces available through these places....

http://www.unfinishedfurniture.org/furn_item_detail.cfm?pid=817

There is also a store finder here to locate some in your area.Hope that helps-..regards- Greg