Abstract: A sewing machine cabinet is provided with a lift mechanism which will move the sewing machine vertically on a platform between a normal operating position, a lower stored position and a raised operating position. A rack and pinion lift mechanism is utilized along with a vertical track which has flanges to shield the pinch point between the rack and pinion as well as providing guide surfaces for rollers engagable with the rack. Switches are provided for manual movement and automatic stopping of the sewing machine lift mechanism. A release flap is provided on the top surface of the cabinet to prevent the formation of a pinch point between the flap and the surface as the platform rises to an operative position.