Modular Workbench for Beginners
ฝัง
- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 28 ก.ย. 2024
- The ultimate modular workbench for beginners and people with a tight workshop. The two work benches latch together to create either a wider or longer surface. This build only uses one sheet of plywood and 2x4s. Plus, you can build another set to make even larger tables!
*Project Plans*
Modular Workbench Plans
www.bearmounta...
*Products Used*
Toggle Latch Clamps:
amzn.to/3Z7I091
4" Heavy Duty Casters:
amzn.to/3Mwd2RK
90 degree positional clamps:
amzn.to/3Tm5Ttd
Kreg Pocket-Hole Jig 310 (Budget Version):
amzn.to/3Pp2lCn
Kreg Pocket-Hole Jig 720 (This is the new design of the one I use most often):
amzn.to/3OActbD
100'' Straight Edge Saw guide:
amzn.to/3UhCOxz
DEWALT circular saw:
amzn.to/3MCtwsz
DEWALT impact driver & drill:
amzn.to/49SAvbc
DEWALT bit set:
amzn.to/3g7ddHT
Gorilla glue:
amzn.to/34ULnJK
6'' Clamps:
amzn.to/3IARLqM
12" Clamps:
amzn.to/38oDWMZ
*Filming Equipment*
www.bearmounta...
Disclosure: Links contain affiliates.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. When you buy through one of my links I will receive a commission. This is at no cost to you.
Thank you for supporting Bear Mountain Builds and allowing us to continue to bring you valuable content.
*Bear Mountain Build things*
Instagram: / bearmountainbuilds
Facebook: / bear-mountai. .
Bear Mountain Builds (Free Plans): www.bearmounta...
Patreon: patreon.com/BearMountainBuilds
I just made these as my first real wood project. I have to say you make it look so easy! Some things I’ve learned from this first project in case there are other complete newbies trying to make this:
A. Don’t use Phillips head screws with an impact driver. Seriously just don’t. I bought a full box and kept trying to make it work and it just ended up being a massive headache. Star-head screws all the way. I’m just going to throw out the box of phillips head screws purely out of spite at this point.
B. If you modify the design to extend the legs to install kick down casters like I did, you can also install leveling feet which honestly saved my butt because my frame was NOT square, my legs were not the same height, and my garage floor is not level. This allows me to set the height to be the same level as other things also like my table saw.
Sounds like you may have needed a larger pilot hole to begin with. And yes, get rid of Phillip head screws. T25s are your friend
Do you have the links to the leveling feet and the kick down casters you used ?
That ratchet strap trick was a great idea
And to adjust between ratchet clicks, run a stick through the webbing and give it half a twist.
Finished building this today with your plans, it’s awesome!! I also wanted to build the miter table you made but my girlfriend had a fantastic idea. We built a box for the saw and put it between the two tables connecting them together with a French cleat. I’d post a photo but I can’t in the comments. The saw could be removed and the two tables function just like you showed in your video. It’s so awesome!!
Great idea!
i had the same idea watching this video. Glad to hear it worked for you. Look forward to seeing the photo
@@moddymeadow I have photos but can’t seem to post them here 😞
@@davidelswick9320 I can’t post a picture or video in the comments so I’m not sure how to send it to you. Any ideas?
@@zachpetz6610 Start your own channel to post photos and videos! Clever idea she had with a lower bridge between the 2 tables for the miter saw, thanks internet.
I measure diagonals to square as you do. What I really like about this video is you explain how to straighten it out. I never thought of using a strap clamp. I previously used my entire body force to will the things square. Your way is a bit better. Lots of bits better really. Great tips all along the video. Thanks for the nice job.
I have a tight workshop and I was thinking of the same idea for workshop tables. I stumbled on your video and you have inspired me to make these tables. I want to take these tables to the next level and make then one with my talbe saw integrated in one and the other as a work table unit with bench dog holes. Thank you for the video.
I built this pair of solid workbenches with the plans you generously provided. I have a small workshop so they needed to meet multiple purposes. I added T-Track to both units. I also made the tops from 2 layers of 3/4” plywood. On one unit the upper layer is removable, revealing a hole cut through to accommodate the placement of a simple portable router table. I installed an on/off kill switch within reach so I can operate the router without reaching under the workbench. When not in use I can hang the router unit on the wall and reinstall the T-Track top. Works great.😊. I have pix! Thanks again. These benches have transformed my modest workshop
Sounds like a great build! I’d love to see the pics!
Thanks for showing me how to use a ratchet strap to square it up. It’s small details like this that really help us beginners.
Saw your channel for the very first time. I'm74 and just bought my first compound miter saw so have a lot to learn but am sure enjoying it. Thanks. Love and prayers sent your way.😘
As a retired guy just starting out with a new workshop build this is precisely what I need for my small shop. My shop is only 13x13 but the biggest problem is my small door coming into the shop, at 30" I want to be able to move the workbench through the doorway in case I ever need to do so. I just subscribed, as I was very impressed with this easy build. Well done young man ! Cheers...
Disclaimer have I literally zero experience with woodworking and building stuff. A few months ago I made my work table with basically just guessing on how I wanted it to be. It's functional but really not good. I have been watching a ton of work bench/table builds lately and this one is my absolute favorite. I am planning on building this while my wife is on holiday this month and super excited about it. I downloaded your plans and have been making a Lowes shopping list for what I need. Thank you so much for this.
Projects like this, presented by someone who clearly loves their craft, give budding diy woodworkers like myself a lot of confidence to tackle the more "scary" projects we'd like to try. in the middle of a complete redesign of my workspace in a long, rectangular stoarage shed right now and these modular benches are exactly what I need in my workspace. MUCH appreciated!
Thank you so much for providing the plans and video on this workbench! I have made it as per your plans as well as modifying it for a smaller workbench as well as stands for my saws. I've used the workbench together side by side both directions and also as an outfeed table for my table saw. Super versatile design!!!!
Love your channel. Thanks for the plans as well. It’s good to see people like you and Matthew Peach helping people.
I really appreciate how you make these projects look simple…. I am a beginner and just built a 4 tier shelf in my garage watching your video and following your plans… Once I get the garage cleaned up 😂😂 I am building this work bench. Please keep the tutorials coming. They Work!!
What a great video. I've watched several of these trying to figure out how to design my modular benches, but I think you added a few novel ideas on how to keep things looking clean and even. Thanks!
Finally!! Everyone says stuff like "measure the diagonals to make sure everything is square". This is the first time I've seem someone say what to do if they are not.
The latch clamps -- genius.
Right! That’s what sold me on these plans. Small space, but sometimes I need a big table to work on.
Excellent work! My mods when I build it: 1.) No pocket squares. Using 90 degree screw attachments instead. 2.) No second shelf. All corners will be reinforced by 3/4" plywood triangles. 3.) No rollers, attaching to wall. Thank you for posting the design and how-to! I'll post my version here when I finish it...starting in about 30 days.
This is totally what I need! I think the only change I might make is leveling casters for my uneven floor. I really like the simplicity and it’s totally doable with my skill set! Thanks! Joe
Built these from your plans last year, best thing ever! I actually added a removable miter station so it is a modular miter table as well. Very creative, cheap and very simple. Anyone planning to do this, don't go cheap on the wheels, you will just create more work for yourself in short order...take it from me. ;)
Great idea for the two separate tables that can clamp together. I'm setting up a tiny workshop in 10x16 shed and these will work great for that! Thank you for posting!
65-year old beginner here! Just retired and putting together my very first shop. I will be using your strap clamp idea to add versatility to my 17'x21' brand new shop. Thanks!
Wait, let me guess, this table is rock solid?
First, I want to say thank you for putting this video together. This is one of the very best confidence building videos I have come across in a very long time. I went through the video and plans and built the first unit out of my old workbench. then i purchased new studs and built another. I then applied the construction technique to a Mobile Miter Saw Station with folding wings and retractable wheels.
I’ve watched at least 50 workbench tutorial videos. Thank you for the free plans and not requiring $5k worth of tools. Subscribed
Love the ratchet strap trick! I will definitely be using that in the future
This channel should be called "ROCK SOLID BUILDS"
Love the modular concept. I am building a work bench, miter saw station and table saw bench that can be bolted together when needed and taken a part for storage. Excellent design!
I'm so grateful I came across your channel. The videos are full of the right information, and you have a natural way of communicating to keep us glued to our seats. Keep up the great work.
I had a blast building these benches. Now I have movable workbenches and lots of storage and work space.
This is a pretty solid little workbench. While once you figure out how it comes together, it is physically Easy to assemble th-cam.com/users/postUgkxyFZUPFEey-PuqsPMxqaykBhgA1LWxFHh by yourself. But the diagrams explaining the steps are really pretty bad. I could not get the handle pins in all the way despite multiple attempts, so I just used a screw I had on hand for the 2nd handle. I could not get the first pin in further or pull it back out. You are supposed to hammer it in, but I had no leverage and the handle is plastic and I did not want to risk breaking it. I will get a lot of use out of the bench because of the convenient size and height. It does fold up nicely for storage. They even explain how to fold it so you don't get pinched...that is important!
Holy crap I wanna do this! Not even sure how useful they'd be for me but this designs shines with promise. A pair of these might be my first work bench! Thank you!
This is a great way to build a sturdy shop table, thanks for providing the plans and keep up the good work!!
Keep making these builds for tall people. My back thanks you!
Don’t worry, I will. I’ve lived too long in a world designed for someone that’s 5’9” to not want to treat myself to a more vertical experience
@@BearMountainBuilds I’d love to see a large L-shaped desk build if you ever feel up to it.
@@nantztopher1279 actually, that is on my list to do. I’m thinking I’ll make one by this fall
Great vid. One question though; I noticed the wheels don’t stay within the frame when they do a 360 swivel. This would cause the wheels to interfere with each other when connecting 2 workbenches and move them around. I do understand that wheels traveling in same direction rotate the same way mostly. But just not all the time.
Just renovated my basement and I now have a utility workshop area in the unfinished part. I'm going to be using these plans for this type of table. Thank you!
Hi from South Africa. I absolutely loved these workbenches. Going to try it next week.Given that you reach an international audience, have you considered putting the metric equivalent somewhere on the screen?
I, for one would really appreciate it. The latch idea is phenomenal. Don't know why no-one thought of it before.
Thank you so much. Looking forward to your other videos.
I didn't even know that I needed modular workbenches, but you have shown me the light! Great video with easy to follow steps for rank amateurs such as I!!
after looking at several different options, this is the one for me! love it that I can make it longer/bigger and move around easily.
Ratchet strap to bring into square, brilliant. Learn something new every day. Thanks
This is excellent. A lot of the time I look at stuff and go "Yeah, no way could I do that". But this I can do. and will do. I really love this idea. Thanks.
Built one of these for my son's wood lathe. I didn't use a square to check the angles for a good 90 but everything was super square and solid when put together. Great project and I plan to check out more of your plans soon.
Thank for the great video tutorial, I have just bought the plans, they are truly awesome with the color coding etc. Can't wait to start putting these together in my tiny 10x12 shed
Thank you for the great (free) plans and video. Having the pieces color coordinated made it so much easier to follow along with the video. This is one of the few projects that actually came out like it was supposed to. ! I am also 6'2, so it is nice to have something my height without having to figure out the adjustments. I appreciate you also suggesting the different pocket hole jigs and explaining those. That is a wonderful tool and made it so much easier and less likely for the wood to split. As a beginner, trying to get into this as a hobby, I appreciate all the extra tidbits and explanations!
Thanks for the awesome videos and the great plans. I had a few of those Toiggle Latch Clamps left so I added a small cut off 2x4 on the inside top rail about the midway point so I now have 3re! THREE configurations: L Shape, 8 foot long, and 4x4 square! All are rock solid!
This is exactly what I needed, but my brain couldn’t come up with it in my own. Best part is that each module could be narrow enough to roll trough a doorway. For those of us without indoor work space who have to take our tools and mess outside
Thanks you for this 🤘🏽
I honestly don't think I've learnt so much from one video before. I think this will be my next project.
Just got the free plans for this build, and it was much more than I could have ever hoped for. Thanks! I've got two butcher block tops I bought from Grizzly in Springfield, that I've had around for 10 years. They match your dimensions perfectly! Thanks again!
I have just finished building the first workbench. Such a brilliant idea. With your video and your free plans, it has turned out exceptionally well. Thank-you so much for your inspirational videos. Iust going to get the bits for the second one.
This is EXACTLY what I am hoping to build this week or next! Only, I have a supply of 4x4's I may use for the legs.
Thank you, now I'm off to watch the video!
Your work is second to none may God continue to bless you and your family. Bottom line
Oh I have been wanting to replace my fixed 8 foot workbench with something like this for a very long time. Thank you so much for the plan so I don’t have to figure it out myself!
Just got our new garage built. And this work bench is perfect for me, easy to follow instructions. Thank you. 🤘
Excellent Beginner Woodworking Bench Project. I started like this in 2008 👍
Yup. This is the one. I sat through many videos and your design fits all the criteria! Excellent video.
Another fantastic build! I think modular is the way to go.....Now, if you could fold the legs and store along side your garage wall, that would be outstanding!
These plans are free? Says 3$
I cant even buy them, the payment system claims my card details are incorrect.
Same here
Same here, messaged to see if they can make them free or use Paypal!
I was able to get it to work. Changed my browser from Chrome to Edge, made sure the cache was cleared and everything went through.
worked on my mobile in the end, all good
Great idea linking them together like that. I think I will use these as my jointer and planer stations until I need them for a long assembly once in a while
Just wanted to say thanks for sharing your knowledge for us just starting out.
Just made these for my garage that doesn’t have much space. Thanks for the plans and the detailed video!
It's a very simple and practical work table. That's a great idea!
Thanks I’m super happy with how it turned out!!
@@BearMountainBuilds I will continue to learn your good ideas! thank you.
Appreciate the simple but sturdy design since I’m a beginner.
Ok I finished this build and have a couple comments/corrections. First off, thanks for the free plans that go with the video. They were helpful and, even though they had some mistakes or missing info, the video helped to clear up those issues.
Now, the instructions say to use 1/4” x 1 5/8” lag screws but the video says 5/16” x 1 1/2” lag screws. Use 5/16”. Also, get washers to go with them.
The 2 1/2” pocket screws work great for the joints with only 2x4s but they went through the 3/4” plywood tops so go with 2” unless you like that torture chamber look.
The latches that connect the benches together don’t come with any screws so make sure you either have the right size or buy them for the project.
Last recommendation is to mount your wheels a little further in from the long edge so the wheels don’t interfere with each other as much with the benches connected.
Thanks again to this channel. It was a fun build.
As a 67 yr old beginner, I am gathering info to build my own workshop on my property. Nothing elaborate but someplace where I can build the things in my head. Thanks so much for sharing this valuable multifunctional workbench!😊
You are my hero. This is perfect for my workshop in my gun reloading room. I like the look of the planed boards. Not familiar with planning and wish you would go into more detail on how you did that. I'm building this for sure!
I've watched a dozen or so videos on workbenches and just watched yours. I have to start in my garage until I get my workshop built. This is perfect!! It is also relatively budget friendly. I am so impressed Bear Mountain man! Can't wait to get started.
Ya know, everyone is always saying to check for square by measuring corner to corner but never explain how to fix it if it isn't. I'm still fairly new to the game so thank you for showing how you fixed it!!
Great video. It's refreshing to see that some folks know how to transfer weight from the top of the bench to the floor instead of to screws holding the horizontal supports to the legs. Can't wait for the storage drawer build sequel. ;-)
LOVED the idea of latching the tables together! great and simple design. i will build it soon! just starting doing basic wood working and prefer using pocket holes whenever feasible. i am just now putting up plywood walls in my 24x24 garage, which i see you’ve done in yours….looking forward to watching more of your videos. thank you
I really like this design. Definitely gonna build it for my "shop". Glad I found your channel
I like how you simulate real shopping for the FREE plans 🙃. Thanks for the video and plans!
Best I’ve got. It’s the only way I could make it work on my website
I have to say, I downloaded your workplans and I am very impressed. Most work plans are sloppy leaving a lot of gaps or holes you have to fill in yourself. These are GREAT!
Followed the plans and made the benches. I want to make a “rock solid”reference but I bet that’s gettin old. Thank you sir-this was great. I’m now subscribed and ready to learn more!
Using 2x4 to make 4x4 + lap joints ... +1 bravo man... tons of videos use planers or 2-3 saws to make different joins or cuts. Thank you! Subscribed!
Excellent video! I like how you talked about certain nuances that most beginners wouldn't know, like the types of screws, and how you showed using the budget friendly pocket hole jig.
I've been searching for the best bench to make and I'm absolutely making these benches! Thanks so much for the free plans
Hey hey, finally had the "tableflip moment" of sick and tired of not having enough inside and outside solid stations (breaking down ballets, sledge hammer outside, heavy old inside table) and done moving half my workshop in and out to do it. Grabbed your vid and bout to make a fleet of these bad boys
I built a smaller version for my DeWalt table saw. Rock solid and handsome.
i just finished building these, took about 4 hours. they were very straight forward in their assembly
I made these benches and they turned out awesomly!
I used the lap joint approach to build a mobile table saw stand. It worked out great! Now I want to build a miter saw station that is modular between three pieces so I can use long or wide configurations with my table saw stand and/or future miter saw station. The latches you used are brilliant idea! I have a small shop so need to build smart! Thanks for the ideas!
I’ll go a step further… this video is rock solid! At least this 72 year newbie woodworker thinks so🤗
Finally just started building this after 6 months of reorganizing and french cleat building. The video and pdf are awesome. This is coming together nicely. I have had a planer in the box since Christmas and broke it out to take your advice on the 2x4's. Amazing results
Thank you for the plans
Thank you very much for the great video and free plans. I am going to build this soon. I ordered all the necessary items from Amazon with the links you provided. You are very generous to provide everything free. May God Bless you.
I am intrigued by the three benches you designed and built: Mobile Dual Benches, Mitre Saw Bench and your large, combo workspace/table saw table. I need to build one of the three for starters. I'm just building out from a CNC and some hand tools to more than I expected. I have a mitre saw and a circular saw but not table saw yet. I think I will take a plunge into some Kreg suggestions you demonstrated and proved their effectiveness. Thanks for the ideas. I have posted a couple other times on a few of your videos which are well produced.
First of all I would like to say thank you for the free plans ☺️. You have made it look super easy, I'm hoping that I can do you proud with my beginners try. Thanks again
this is exactly what i was looking for. i have about 9' of space between my tool box and wall and was thinking about how i can put a workstation there and still save room in the rest of my garage. this is perfect. downloaded the plans and subscribed! thanks again!
This is the setup I have for my sewing/assembling/cutting table. But made of 3 cabinets. More like Ikea's Kallax but I made 2 other versions/partitions to the Kallax.
Can assemble and this assemble fast and easy.
*Very Space Saving* 😁😆
I am just starting out and this seems to be perfect for what I need. Seems simple and sturdy. Thank you
Great plans and video, thank you. We just got messed up on the screws being too long for the top and shelf, but we adjusted by not screwing them in all the way. Nice to have these great workbenches for our garage!
I'm pretty new to pocket holes, and something you did screwed me up and left me confused until I figured it out: For the pocket holes to attach top and bottom, you cannot use the Kreg screw-size guide for securing 3/4" inch material. That guide will tell you to use a 1-14" screws, which will barely even reach through the 2x4. I re-watched your video and see that you used 2" screws for that, which is what I ended up doing by trial and error. In fact, the 2" are almost too long, but I ground 1/8" off and they worked fine. Could have adjusted depth of pocket hole to compensate - will do that in the future. Would have been worth mentioning for us newbies. I've built two different benches now using your concept, and it is so quick and easy - thanks.
Yeah this is nicely done. Loads are bearing on the wood and not screws. Kudos.
Think I saw fix this build that do the same with magnets. Pretty sweet. Nice build well done.
Clever! Building a new house, need new garage workbench plus feed bench. Voila! Now know how to have both in a small'ish space. Thank you!
Hi - I’ve just finished making my two work benches based on your spec. Loved the project and they have turned out really well. Thank you for your post and great instructions. I downloaded the plans and found them very useful. Chris from the UK.
these look simple and super useful!
I especially like that you showed what to do when something isn't exactly square. Every video shows how to check for square and reminds you to check it, but no one ever shows what to do when it isn't square (which happens often for me haha)
thanks!
when you mentioned it could be used the long way like a miter station, an idea popped in my head that it might be cool if there was an easy way to put in some kind of insert between them that's lower than the top so the miter saw can sit on that lower portion and the work bench tops would be level with the bed of the miter saw....maybe a small 2x4 frame with a plywood top that drops into some dowel holes on the bottoms of the work benches to hold it all square?
First video I've ever seen where something was out of square and it was explained how to correct that !
This is brilliant!! Thanks so much for this very informative building and plans.
Great video - easy to follow and each step was clearly communicated including the "why".
I really like this build. I think I'm going to build a couple. I'll modify it somewhat so that I can put my jobsite table saw in one of them (essentially building a recess for it to sit in). That way I can add the second bench to the left or the right or lengthwise depending on what I'm cutting.
You've inspired me.
I currently under took this project. The plans from your website are the bomb. Making it so easy and lays out all the wood cuts for the best use of the wood. Can't wait to have these to use for my next project.