How to Build a Custom Workbench

by Tracey Lizza 10/30/2022

A workbench offers a handy way to store your tools in your garage or shed, as well as a place to work on tasks or hobbies. You don’t have to head to the store to buy a workbench for your home. Instead, put your woodworking skills to the test by building your own workbench. The following tips provide a rough idea of what it takes to make a DIY workbench.

Tools and Materials

For a simple workbench, you’ll need a circular saw, miter saw, cordless drill, straightedge and tape measure. You should also have safety glasses available to protect your eyes while building your workbench. You’ll also need drywall screws and plywood cut to the lengths you want your workbench to be.

Frames and Legs

Your DIY workbench starts with building the frames for the surface and the lower shelf. When the frames are done, you’ll then attach the legs to the surface frame. Once you’ve attached the legs, you can attach the lower frame. Set paint cans or similar items below the lower frame to help it stay in place while you attach it to the workbench legs.

Work Surfaces

The work surfaces for your workbench should provide a smooth and sturdy place for you to store items and work on tasks. Attach pieces of plywood to the surface frame and lower frame to create these work surfaces.

Top Shelf

The top shelf on your DIY workbench offers a place to hang or store tools to keep them off of your work surface. Keeping these items on the top shelf makes them easy to reach when you need them. After attaching your work surfaces, your next step is building the frame for your top shelf. Once the frame is done, you can attach a piece of plywood to the top shelf and connect the top shelf legs. When you have the top shelf legs attached, you can then attach the entire top shelf to the main part of your workbench.

Finishing Touch

The back of your workbench will be open, but you can attach pegboards or another type of backer board to it. These boards provide a good way to organize various tools you might need for your projects. Other finishing touches to consider include lighting, power strips and vises. Lighting provides the illumination needed for working on tasks at your workbench, especially if you’re handling smaller tools or items. Mounted power strips offer a convenient place to plug in power tools. A bench vise is an essential tool that allows you to do tasks such as sawing or sanding as safely as possible.

About the Author
Author

Tracey Lizza

 TRACEY LIZZA - Buying or selling a home is more than just a transaction: it’s a life-changing experience. Tracey is dedicated to providing exceptional, personalized service with total discretion for all of her clients. She takes great pride in the relationships she builds and always works relentlessly on the client’s behalf to help them achieve their real estate goals. Tracey places a high value on responsiveness and availability. She works with her clients every step of the way whether they are buying, renting or selling. A career as a real estate professional has been a perfect fit for Tracey. She has had a varied background in the marketing communications field including having worked in the international fashion industry as a buyer for over a decade. Combined with a personal selection of residential and commercial properties, Tracey brings her expertise along with firsthand experience. Tracey and her family enjoy the Shoreline lifestyle of Southeastern Connecticut and have garnered great pleasure volunteering and being active in her community and children’s schools. Tracey interests include gardening, fishing and boating. 

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CAROL GESSNER - As a full-time Realtor I have the knowledge you need to get your home sold or find a new one. I am highly dedicated to bringing you customer service that exceeds your expectations. You can expect nothing less than superior professionalism and integrity from me. I have lived in southeastern Connecticut for 35 years. I grew up here. I have a connection to this community and the people who call it home. When I'm not helping my clients, I enjoy gardening, cooking and traveling. My true passions in life are my husband James, and our kids Nicholas and Nola. 

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