paradoxstorm Posted August 8, 2014 Report Share Posted August 8, 2014 I would like to be able to work on assembling models while hanging with the family--that means no dedicated work table. Has anyone got experience with a lap desk, or similar, for working on models while, say, sitting on a sofa? I am focused on assembly because there is no danger of spilling paint on any of the nice furniture and so far the collection of tools needed seems relatively limited so I could have a box with tools on a side table. I imagine that if I have some sort of a shallow box on my lap I could be slowly working on models with the sides of the box providing a bit of protection against losing dropped pieces. Am I just engaged in wishful thinking or is this a viable idea? Advice welcome. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Mako Posted August 8, 2014 Report Share Posted August 8, 2014 One of those dinner trays with a shallow bean bag under it could be a good idea - comfortable and easy to keep stable, with a lip around the edge. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
paradoxstorm Posted August 9, 2014 Author Report Share Posted August 9, 2014 Thanks Mako. Since no one called me "stupid" and you made a specific suggestion I think I am going to move ahead with giving it a go. First I'm gonna head to the liquor store and see if they have a cardboard flat about the right size--my wife gave me a good chewing out for being so cheap, until I explained I was only planning a trial to see if the idea would work for me--if it does I'll go ahead and buy something nice--I really like the idea of adding a shallow bean bag for some stability. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Mako Posted August 9, 2014 Report Share Posted August 9, 2014 There's a fair range of ones with bean bags attached these days I think. A quick search for 'bean bag tray' on Amazon UK indicates they're around 10 pounds, and now I'm tempted to get one! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bengt Posted August 9, 2014 Report Share Posted August 9, 2014 What I would worry about with a set up like that is all the plastic shavings I produce when cleaning minis. And having enough light to see those faint mould lines that are oh so obvious once you get some paint on. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Iron Heel Posted August 9, 2014 Report Share Posted August 9, 2014 I would think that lighting would be the big issues. Once you are past spue removal and cleaning, you are going to want to be at a table. As I understand, glue and furniture do not mix in ways that are beneficial to your mental or relational health. It is best to glue with steady hands too; elbows on a table help. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
brib4169 Posted August 10, 2014 Report Share Posted August 10, 2014 Amazon has lots of different types of lap desks. I use a metal duct cap as a work surface and to keep all my tools and mess contained. A small baking sheet would serve the same purpose I suppose. http://www.homedepot.com/p/Master-Flow-24-in-x-8-in-Rectangular-Duct-Cap-RDC24X8/100210779 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Vanthor Posted August 10, 2014 Report Share Posted August 10, 2014 Laptop/reading tray with the built-in reading light? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
paradoxstorm Posted August 18, 2014 Author Report Share Posted August 18, 2014 Some good ideas. Whatever I get is going to have sides on it to avoid the shavings on the furniture problem. I also plan on getting something large enough that the glue risk to furniture is minimal---because doing otherwise would be dangerous. Hadn't thought of the lighting issue--good point. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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