Building a workbench

Well-organized tools and a spacious work surface are the key to working efficiently and effectively. So, before you start other projects, why not build a workbench first? This model is foldable and can be carried easily from one location to another. We think you’ll find it very practical.

Get your own free plan for this workbench as well as the list of materials required for the project. For viewing and printing, you will need to use Acrobat Reader software.
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Tools list
PDF Plan ABT-5018 (1.2M)
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Practical tips
1. The bench top
2. The legs
3. The back
4. Final assembly

Practical tips

  • Before you start, study the plan carefully to get a good idea of what the work involves.

  • Sand all the surfaces well to avoid getting any splinters when you carry the bench.

  • It is always a good idea to pre-drill holes before fastening screws. The hole guides the screw into the correct position and prevents it from splitting the wood. Remember to make the holes a little smaller than the diameter of the screw, to allow the thread to bite into the wood.

  • Always keep safety glasses on hand. You should wear them every time you use electric tools.

1. The bench top

Cut and prepare pieces 1 to 4. Pre-drill the holes where required and assemble the benchtop frame using 2 ½" screws. Make sure the two centre pieces are installed correctly, according to the plan. Then, fix the bench top (the ¾" plywood) to the frame using 2" screws.

2. The legs

Cut and prepare the four no.5 pieces and the four no.6 pieces. Assemble the legs using 2 ½" screws, making sure the pieces are aligned squarely.

3. The back

3.1 

Start by preparing pieces 7, 8, 9 and 10. You will need to make grooves in pieces 9 and 10 using a router. Choose ¾" straight bits and adjust the router to carve grooves ½" deep. Trace your lines in advance and follow the marks.

3.2 

Assemble the back frame using 2 ½" screws. Piece no.7 at the top will hold pieces 8, 9 and 10 in place.

3.3 

Using 2" screws, fix the ¾" plywood to the back of the frame.

3.4 

Next, prepare piece no.12, again using the router to make the grooves. This piece will support the shelves. When it is ready, nail it into place with 2 ½" nails.

3.5 

Prepare pieces 13, 14 and 15 and install them according to the instructions on page 7 of the plan. Close in the top with pieces 16 and 17.

3.6 

Prepare the no.18 pieces and fasten them to pieces 9 and 10 using 2 ½" screws. These pieces will hold the bench closed when you carry it.

3.7 

Cut the perforated panel to the required size and fasten it onto the previously installed no.13 pieces using 2" screws. The space between the perforated panel and the plywood at the back allows room for hooks to be inserted for hanging tools.

4. Final assembly

4.1 

Fix the hinges to the bottom of the back frame as shown, using 1 ½" screws, then attach these hinges to the bench top.

4.2 

Fasten the hinges that will hold the legs in place. Attach the legs, and once in place secure them firmly with the no. 20 pieces, cut beforehand to the required shape using a jigsaw.
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