Buildables

How to Build a Work Bench

Many persons need a proper seat when on the job; it helps you to sit comfortably while in the process of performing a task that otherwise you would have to perform standing up. This building project only demands a few simple and easy-to-get tools along with materials that can be easily sourced at any hardware store. Follow the steps below to build yourself a new workbench.

Tools required

  • Power Drill (with drill bits)
  • Sandpaper
  • Table saw
  • Tape measure

Materials required

  • Wood (Pressure treated 2*4)
  • Deck Screws
  • Nails
  • Polyurethane
  • Wood putty

Instructions

  1. Have a clear idea of how big you want your workbench to be, whether it will be big enough to fit just one person or more than one.
  2. Use the table saw and cut out all the pieces from the wood stock that will be connected together to make the workbench. These pieces are the legs, the seat, and the side and end rails. For this article we will make the measurements for the four (4) legs at 30 inches each, the side rails (running along the length of the bench) should be 45 inches long and the end rails (running along the width of the bench) will be 26 inches
  3. When all the pieces are cut out, use the tape measure to check that the measurements are correct then use sandpaper to sand down the surface to smooth them off.
  4. Start putting together the support system for the working bench. Make the leg section by connecting each side of the bench leg with the side rails running along the length of the bench at the top and bottom of the leg so they cover the outside of the board. Bore the holes and fasten in the screws with the power drill. Then attach the side frames with the end rails on the outside so that it runs across the width of the workbench.
  5. Use the drill to make holes and screw in the top frame of the working bench. You can use either one flat piece of plywood the size of the seating or you can screw in strips of wood across the legs to cover the bench.
  6. Use your hands to shake and pull the different parts of the bench and sit on it to test the sturdiness of the bench.
  7. When all the pieces are connected together and you feel satisfied with the results, cover the screw holes with wood putty. Then paint and stain the entire bench, when this dries then add another coat of polyurethane.

Tips and Warning

  • Buy extra wood when building the bench in case one of the pieces is cut incorrectly so you can replace it instantly or if you have a part on it that needs to be repaired at a later date.
  • Some people also add other accessories to their working bench such as a drawer. Depending on the type of work you will be using the bench for you may want to store some tools and pieces of equipment within the bench that can be accessed at a moment’s notice.
  • If you have access to a nail gun that can be used instead of a hammer, this machinery may also be more efficient than a hammer and saves time during the building process.
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