Are you excited to get into the world of woodworking, but don’t know where to start?
This beginner-friendly workbench is the perfect first project for anyone looking to get started. It’s simple, functional, and uses only basic tools and materials, making it accessible for even the newest DIYers. Let’s break down why this is the project for you and how you can get started today.
Free Plans and Resources Included
We’ve made it as easy as possible to get started. Here’s what you’ll find in our free plans:
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Video Tutorial: Follow along step-by-step to see how it’s built.
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Cut List and Shopping List: Know exactly what materials and measurements you’ll need before you start.
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Detailed Diagrams: Easy-to-follow diagrams walk you through every step of the process.
All of these resources are completely free and designed to help you succeed on your first build.
Why This Workbench Is Perfect for Beginners
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No Workbench Needed: You don’t even need a workbench to build this workbench! That’s what makes it such a great starter project. Build it on the ground or any flat surface.
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Simple Tools Required: All you need is a circular saw and a drill to complete this project. No fancy or expensive tools necessary!
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Budget-Friendly Materials: This workbench is built using standard 2x4 lumber, making it affordable and easy to source materials from any hardware store.
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Learn as You Build: This project is a great way to practice basic skills like measuring, cutting, and assembling. You’ll build confidence while creating something practical and durable.
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Compact Yet Sturdy: The design is compact enough to fit against a wall in your garage or workspace but sturdy enough to handle heavy-duty use. Optional caster wheels add mobility if you need to move it around.
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Customizable: Build one as a standalone workbench, or make two to use as sawhorses or group together for a larger workspace.
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Storage: The added lower shelf is perfect for tool storage, keeping your space organized and efficient.
Benefits of Building This Workbench
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Save Money: Instead of buying an expensive workbench, build your own for a fraction of the cost.
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Skill Development: This project will teach you foundational woodworking skills that you can apply to future builds.
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Future Projects: Once you’ve built this workbench, you’ll have a reliable surface to take on more complex projects.
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Functional and Versatile: Whether you’re working in a small garage or a spacious shop, this workbench is the ideal companion for any DIY enthusiast.
How I I Built this Workbench
Here's the step to build this workbench.
I cut all the boards using a circular saw. If you'd like to see the cutting process please watch the video tutorial.
Then I used self tapping screws to build two of the frame pieces, that make up the longer edge of the workbench.
Then I joined the two frame pieces together with shorter frame pieces, to make up the overall frame of the workbench.
Here is the bottom frame piece being attached with screws.
Then I added the bottom shelf slats in, starting in the center and working outward.
More slats added, and screwed from outside.
For the top, I used a piece of 3/4" plywood, precut to the 2 foot by 4 foot size.
I screwed it down to the frame.
I went back and cut two of the legs shorter and added caster wheels.
I then filled all the screw holes with wood filler and let it dry.
And sanded the entire project well with 120 grit sandpaper.
I used a paint and primer combo paint, painting the hardest to reach areas first, and working outward.
I added a handle on one end to make it easier to move around.
Video Tutorial - Watch the Video Tutorial for More Detail on Building this Workbench
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Preparation
- 5 - 2x4 @ 10 feet long (preferably yellow toned (not red toned))
- 1 - 3/4" plywood panel @ 24" x 48"
- 70 - 2-3/4" self tapping flat head wood screws
- 20 - 1-1/4" self tapping flat head wood screws
- 4 - 2x4 @ 29-1/4"
- 4 - 2x4 @ 45"
- 11 - 2x4 @ 21"
- 1 - 3/4" plywood
- panel @ 24" x 48"
Cut the longest pieces first to conserve lumber, then cut the next longest. Consider the saw blade kerf when cutting. Always clamp in two places on one end of the board, leaving one end free to prevent binding. Wear safety glasses.
Instructions
Step 1
Measure and mark the legs 12" up from the bottom. Use a speed square to transfer mark across. Clamp and attach legs to the 45" 2x4 boards, using 2-3/4" screws. Build two legs sets that are identical.
Step 2
Attach the 2x4s at 21" to the legs sets, to create the top frame, with two screws per joint.
Step 3
Repeat for the bottom frame.
Step 4
Find the center of the bottom shelf.
Find the center of a 21" 2x4 board.
Match centers and attach with 2-3/4" screws, two per joint.
Step 5
Center two more slats in the bottom shelf, on the openings. Attach with 2-3/4" screws.
Step 6
Center the remaining slats in the openings and attach with 2-3/4" screws.
Step 7
Place the plywood panel on top. Adjust the base so the plywood top matches the base on side edges. Screw down with 1-1/4" screws, every 12".
Step 8
One of the biggest reasons to build your own projects is the ability to customize for your specific needs.
Supplies: 2" swivel caster wheels, 1-1/4" screws
Measure the caster wheels to determine how much to cut off the legs of the workbench. Mark and cut the legs down on the workbench. Install the caster wheels.
Sand with a sanding block or random orbital sander, until all excess wood filler is removed.
Sand any sharp edges.
Vacuum off sanding residue.
Wipe clean with a damp, lint free cloth.