Abstract: A work table is divided at least into a spreading station and a cutting station, has a flat, substantially smooth upper surface and a plurality of apertures extending through the top of the table for passage of air currents therethrough. A reversible pump generates and delivers the air current to said apertures through a plurality of separate conduits connected to each of the apertures. A spreading device, which spreads, cuts, and stacks individual layers of fabric is provided with a plurality of air jets for selectively applying a thin film of air over the top of the fabric layers as they are spread. While the stack is being formed, the pump draws air through the fabric stack and down through the work table surface to hold the stack in place. When the stack is completed the pump is reversed so that a positive air pressure creates a cushion of air between the stack of fabric and the work table to move the stacked material to the cutting station.