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How To

How to Build a Portable Workbench

Member
By atvwdsracer
User-Submitted Article
(4 Ratings)

I'll show you how to easily build an inexpensive portable workbench.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • 2 small filing cabinets
  • 4 caster wheels
  • drill
  • screws/ bolts
  • wood
  1. Step 1

    Measure the width of both filing cabinets. Add that number plus a center section (however wide you'd like). I chose to add at little less than the width of 1 of the cabinets to the center.

  2. Step 2

    Cut 2 boards to the length of your total measurement. I used deck boards for 2 reasons, I had them here as scraps, they offer a wider surface than a 2x4 (more support).

  3. Step 3

    Flip filing cabinets upside down and have them spaced where you want them. Drill holes if using bolts. If you want to go quicker just use wood screws. I recommend using a minimum of 4 screws per corner.

  4. Step 4

    Now screw on the caster wheel to the four corners. Use a wheel that is going to be strong enough for what you plan on using this bench for.

  5. Step 5

    With assistance (if available) flip over your work bench. CAUTION: Flip it so the drawers slide into the cabinet and not to your knees or feet.

  6. Step 6

    Now take a sheet of 1/4" to 1/2" plywood and cut to fit the top. I left some hang over for bigger jobs. You can screws this down to the top if you'd like. I left mine loose which allows me to easily clean the top and adjust it to where I'd like.

Tips & Warnings
  • Use caster wheels stronger than you initially intended to use this bench for. You never know what you will want to do later.
  • Flip the filing cabinets over with the drawers sliding into the cabinet. The other direction hurts :)

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