No, the foam never shifts and I absolutely love that it gives me a strong, flat surface. It’s covered with a thick, clear vinyl film that is smooth and that also keeps everything in place. I love it so much that I take it traveling with me! The table height is *very* low so that the actual surface that I am using (once the foam is added) is very ergonomically correct for me, and that helps me quilt for longer periods of time. My ‘poor man’s’ quilting table