You put so much effort into your post but my simplistic answer is: we put TV trays next to the players. Like the kind you use while sitting on a couch, not lap trays - the ones that have legs down to the floor.
That’s a good idea as well. How does that work when there are 3 adults on one side at a 6ft length table?
I have four total at an oval-shaped table, so I dunno. Check out a few things; see what might work for your particular situation. You may even have to try a couple different things.
You could get a foldable card table if you need something larger, for example.
Yeah, that’s what I was thinking initially was a larger foldable table - like an events table
I have 5 people at a smaller table for my games, so we just use less trays, and they share. One for me as the GM, and one per two players
Interesting. Can you explain more what this looks like and/or what trays?
I just have little rattan tables, about a foot square surface area, but any TV tray-like table would work. One between each set of two players, and one next to me at the head of the table
Can the table expand to add a leaf? Can it be modified to expand to add a leaf?
Otherwise, best options are under-table trays and drink holders.
Unfortunately, it’s a set/solid wood table (Amish made). It’s a solid top and legs at the corners. That’s why I was thinking about an entirely new table or these “accessories” to add
Lazy Susan?
Hmm. I here would this go and how would it work at a table? It’s definitely interesting!
It's just my go-to for making a big table a little bigger and more accessible. Can be helpful for placing miniatures on so you can spin it around instead of stretching across the table.
So you put maps, minis, and other stuff on top of the lazy Susan, leaving the table itself free for food, sheets, and dice?
Yep pretty much
I’m almost thinking about buying something like this, but building it upside down? Essentially like a pull out but on top of the table (more a stand?)
Or several of these?
I don’t know. 🤣
I really like the keyboard tray, folding under the table is great for dice or small plates or bowls for snaking.
You don't want to build it upside down. My current DM tried something like that in a similar situation, and it being above normal tabletop height makes it super inconvenient
Yeah, it was a gamble for sure. What do you think of the other trays I linked?
I'd try to get something as close to flush with the normal tabletop surface as possible
A cheaper option then buying a new table. Add either shallow draws or keyboard trays.
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