Building workbench for the height challanged?

Submitted by delynb on Tue, 05/13/2014 - 20:58

I have been working with wood for many years but I have always used my dad's table saw, router, etc. and as a result I have never really been comfortable using these tools because I am fairly short at 4' 10". Now, my house has been built with my height taken into consideration. I think a shorter workbench would help my comfort level because I don't feel as apprehensive using the tools on the floor as I do using them on my father's workbench. I have searched for shorter workbenches but they are pretty much a standard height. I am curious to know if anyone else has built with this in mind or if there are standards for the different sizes of users. Any advise would be useful.

jgbreeden

Wed, 05/14/2014 - 10:43

Most are standard counter height, around 36". If the standard table/desk height of around 30" would work for you, then an old hardwood desk would make an ideal starting point.

delynb

Wed, 05/14/2014 - 14:39

I was thinking about 28". I might see if I can find an old desk as you suggested for free on craigslist to try out the height. I can test the height and am not out money for materials if the shorter height isn't right. 28" is about waist height on me. ;-) Thanks for the input and suggestion.

claydowling

Fri, 05/16/2014 - 14:52

There are some workbench projects around here that could work for you. Just change them to match your specific stature needs. In addition to the height you'd probably also want to reduce the width, because if you can't reach the back of the bench you'll be unhappy when a tool rolls back there.