Arrow Gidget II Sewing Table Review: Is It Worth It?

When I bought my Bernette b79 last year, I knew I wanted a proper sewing table to go with it. Specifically, I wanted one with a lift and a custom insert so I could sew flatbed style, with my needle plate flush with the surface of the table. My mom had a sewing cabinet with a lift when I was growing up, and I always wanted one.

After researching my options, I landed on the Arrow Gidget II Sewing Table, and I'm happy with the purchase. Here's my full review to help you decide if it's the right fit for your sewing space.

What Is the Gidget II?

The Arrow Gidget II is a compact sewing table designed for large sewing machines. It has a lift with a 23.5"x12.5" opening where your machine sits. Raise the lift for free-arm sewing, lower it for flatbed sewing. It's not a large table, but there's a decent amount of surface space on the right side for tools and notions while you work.

The real purpose of the lift is to position your machine so the needle plate sits flush with the table surface. This reduces back strain significantly and makes fabric manipulation so much easier since your project doesn't have to fight gravity as it feeds through the machine.

The Custom Insert

I bought both the table and a custom insert through SewingMachinesPlus.com. The experience was great. I gave them my machine's make and model and they sent me a plexiglass insert that fits the opening perfectly when the lift is in the lowered position.

They also followed up after my order to make sure everything was right and offered to make adjustments if needed. The one downside was the wait: the custom insert took about six weeks to arrive after the table showed up. Plan ahead if you need it right away.

Product Features

Dimensions: 40" wide x 19.75" deep x 28.25" high

Sturdy steel legs that lock into place. I barely notice any vibration even when sewing at high speeds, which was a concern I had before buying.

Folds up and has wheels for portability. I don't plan to move mine often, but it's nice to have the option for classes or sewing retreats.

Ruler sticker along the front edge for quick measurements. I was worried it would get in the way or peel off, but it's been totally fine.

White melamine surface with a slight texture. It fits my space well. If you prefer a wood finish, Kangaroo sewing tables come in several colors and are worth a look.

Fully adjustable lift with a chain and screw system to customize the height for your specific machine.

Custom insert option with a beveled edge opening. SewingMachinesPlus.com will make one for your exact machine model for a small additional fee.

Weight capacity up to 45 pounds.

Why I Chose the Gidget II

Two reasons: price and space.

I had just spent over $2,000 on my Bernette b79 and wasn't looking to spend a lot more. The Gidget II runs around $300, which felt reasonable. It's not a fancy, built-in sewing cabinet, but it does the job well at a fraction of the price.

Space was the other factor. When my husband started working from home, he took over the office and I moved my sewing setup to our laundry room. The wall where I wanted my table had only about 42 inches of space, which ruled out most of the larger folding sewing cabinets. The Gidget II fit perfectly.

One note on sizing: I have a large sewing machine, so I went with the Gidget II. If you have a smaller machine, the Gidget I has a smaller opening and would be a better fit.

A Few Honest Notes

The table arrived already assembled. I just unfolded it, adjusted the chain to the right height, and set up my machine. Really easy.

I'm overall happy with the purchase, but there are two things I wish I'd considered before buying:

1. My Bernette b79 actually came with a removable flatbed accessory. I could have used it on a standard table without needing a lift at all. Most sewing machines don't come with this feature, but it's worth checking before you buy a lift table.

2. Pin It

   There's no built-in storage on the Gidget II. That's my biggest wish-it-had feature. A drawer or shelf would make a big difference.

Overall, the Arrow Gidget II is a solid, sturdy sewing table at a reasonable price point. If you need a compact table with a lift for a large machine and you're working with limited space or budget, this is a really good option.

What are you using for your sewing table? I'd love to hear about your setup in the comments!