Opening size

dblalock1030

I know the typical opening for a large on a table is 21" with 17" from the top of the support shelf to the top of the table top. I prefer for the egg to sit lower in the table and raising the work surface up to just below the bottom bulge at the felt line. The diameter of the large is 22-1/4" at the felt line, so my question is how large should I hold my opening to ensure the egg fits properly and I have enough space to prevent any heat transfer damage? I'm not worried about the hinge striking the table surface as I will have an open back and more than likely will have a two part top with the egg in the middle. I also don't want it to look like I made the opening for an XL or anything. It has to flow. Would 22" provide me with the protection and look im trying to achieve? 

Thoughts and and recommendations are appreciated. Thanks. 

SGH

Bump.... Hoping that a carpenter answers this for you. I'm can tell you how to cook a table, but not how to build one. Maybe others will help.

Tinyfish

I have a stainless table but I would think a hole 1" - 1 1/2" larger then the eggs diameter would work. It would give you 1/2" - 3/4" space cushion around the egg.