How to Build a Built-in Workbench

If woodworking is one of your hobbies, and you are tired of building your projects on the floor, a built-in workbench is an ideal solution. Your sturdy workbench doesn't have to be pretty -- you may dent it with a hammer, nick it with a saw or drill a hole in it with your cordless drill. The size of your garage or your available basement space determines what size workbench you construct. As a carpenter, building yourself a workbench will prove to be an enjoyable project with numerous benefits.

Things You'll Need

• 2-by-4-inch lumber
• 4-by-4-inch lumber
• Tape measure
• Circular saw
• Drill
• Screwdriver bits for drill
• 5-inch flathead screws
• ¾-inch plywood
• 1 1/4-inch flathead screws
• L-brackets
• Safety goggles

Instructions

1. Determine the size of bench you desire to make. Take into account the size you have available. You also need to consider the amount of workspace you will be comfortable working on. If you need additional space for vises and permanent tools, also account for those measurements. A minimum size workbench is 4 by 6 feet.

2. Measure and cut two 2-by-4-inch pieces of lumber with a circular saw the length of the bench you desire. Measure and cut two 2-by-4-inch pieces of lumber the width of the bench. Cut four 4-by-4-inch pieces the height of the bench. These pieces will form the frame of your workbench.

3. Connect the pieces cut for the frame by drilling holes through the center of where the two pieces will meet at each corner. Insert 5-inch flathead screws and tighten with a drill and screwdriver bits for the drill.

4. Secure one 4-by-4-inch piece to the inside bottom of the constructed frame by drilling holes where the leg will join the frame. Insert a 5-inch flathead screw and tighten. Repeat for the three remaining legs.

5. Measure and cut ¾-inch plywood the length of your bench, adding extra length for attaching vises or permanent woodworking tools. The added amount of length should equal the size of permanent tools you desire to attach to the workbench. Fasten the plywood to the top of your workbench frame with L-brackets and 1 1/4-inch flathead screws. Attach an extra piece of plywood to the bench in areas where permanent tools attach to the bench. Fasten your workbench to the wall using four L-brackets and four lag bolts.

6. Measure and cut ¾-inch plywood the length of your bench. Fasten as a brace to the legs approximately halfway up the legs.

7. Fasten your workbench to the wall using four L-brackets and four lag bolts.

Tips & Warnings

• Construct shelves underneath your workbench for storage if you desire.

• Use a minimum of four screws at each corner of your frame.

• You may also create braces for the sides of your workbench by attaching 2-by-4-inch pieces diagonally to the side of the frame.

• Wear protective eyewear when using a circular saw.

References

• Ask the Builder: A Sturdy but Simple Garage Workbench