Designing and Building a Mini Workbench
ฝัง
- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 17 ต.ค. 2024
- A tabletop workbench is a superb way to bring smaller work close to your eyes, and often eliminates the back strain and fatigue that are caused by bending over a lower work table. This version is appropriate for a wide variety of smaller workshop tasks. I show the installation of a serious front vise, and demonstrate some custom accessories that simplify and expedite many common woodworking processes.
For the link to the Fine Woodworking video, see • Mini Workbench Makes D...
For the link to the Yost front vise shown in the video, see
amzn.to/2t6BwtP
For plans for this workbench, see my website:
psullivancarme...
I bought this for my friend for his birthday as we just moved into a new house and he finally has room for a workshop. The bench was very easy to set up th-cam.com/users/postUgkxyFZUPFEey-PuqsPMxqaykBhgA1LWxFHh They center support is a little difficult to snap in and out of place at first but at least then we know the bench is secure. It was a pleasant surprise when we saw it came with clamps. I apparently missed that in the description. My friend loves the versatility of the bench. Great starter bench for his workshop and easily transportable all over our property. I wish the bench was a little taller but the other features of the bench more than make up for that.
I must say, when u make a mini bench, u don't fool around. Very nice.
Super Idee, meiner Meinung nach gibt es keine bessere Lösung. Dieses Projekt hat auf jeden Fall einen Platz in meiner "Projekteliste" gefunden.
Although I'm getting better at working with the imperial system, it's greatly appreciated when people take the time to include metric in their projects. Thank you!
Great video. We were forcibly downsized due to the Camp Fire that destroyed our home in Paradise and this may be exactly what I need to do work around our apartment. You can’t keep a beginning wood worker down!
Sir, I really appreciate you putting this video up. I am a potter who is just getting into wood working, and I've been day dreaming about making this project all day! Thank you!
ThInk you Sir, I am a Navy guy stationed in Japan, in very small quarters, who just happens to love working with wood, needless to say this video helped recalibrate my compass in a major way. Thank you for saving me from making something way to big move back to the States.V\R, AM1(AW) Ludwig
My grandfather taught me everything I know, he is a master craftsman and I have an immense respect for him. Your video reminded me of him and I felt myself crack a smile as it stirred up happy memories I have with him. I miss him so much. He lives in another state and it's hard to find time like we had.
Your bench idea is awesome and I plan on making one myself. I also like that sweet little brass plane. Looks like a great heirloom piece. 😁👍
Superior workmanship and teaching. Thanks a million.
I am 6' 3" and have a one stall garage for a shop. I have remodeled my shop 12 time in thirteen times in that period. I fight for every inch of space I can get. I currently have a couple of vises but am limited in what I can do. A mini bench like yours is what I have been looking for. It will work perfectly on either my table saw or its outfeed. Thanks for sharing. I really appreciate it
That maple is stunning, one of my favorite woods. That's a pricey bench. 🙃 When I had access to my Father's wood collection in high school I turned a night stick out of maple and worked paste wax in on the lathe for hours. 40 years later it still looks brand new (except for a few dents...🤐)
Us 6 ft + - people have a hard time on standard height cabnet tops now short people do not like you shop , I work comfortably. Bravo on building to your height, love the video great job.
The workbench is brutal and magnificent.
Your work is done with much love.
A cordial greeting.
Your project is a great idea and an avoidance device to prevent safety issues. I (luckily) injured my back >25 years ago and as I was planning a model railroad layout I I discovered that having an elevated working surface it would be much easier on my back. I had a carpenter/friend build me an elevated work bench which has been a dream. I later built a rolling work cart with a lip around the edge, 36" x 60" x 43" tall to carry my working tools and now my train tools (toys) and this has made my hobby much more enjoyable. Thanks for sharing!
I appreciate how concise and thoughtful this video was with exceptional narration. You beautifully cover small details in an efficient manner and I'm so thankful that you stated the full names of the tools and finishing supplies you use.
Beautiful ,handy little bench for smaller projects like toymaking or box building etc.
I'm so glad I found this channel its helping me out no end thanks Patrick.
I don´t work with wood but this video came up as I looked for ideas for a modeling work station and I found it delightful. It´s easy to see how much of an expert you are at your work. Beautiful!
Finally! A woodworking video that doesn't keep blasting power tool noise into my ears through my headphones. Excellent decision!
I am amazed every day the time folks put in to making videos to share their knowledge gained over many years - and at no cost to us hobbyists. Great video, also like the mini router table design. Will be making both in time. Thanks!
@Hymat Vgytab You took the time to pull out the thesaurus for those nice, big words, yet you still used "@" and "u".
@Hymat Vgytab I'm just pointing out that writing the type of comment that would be posted on /r/iamverysmart doesn't mean a thing if you can't take the time to write "you" instead of "u".
Absolutely right. I appreciate Patrick very much.
@Hymat Vgytab Oh, you're back.
I mean, if you wanted to shorten your response why would you use words like "equitly", "expounded", and "assessment"?
Said it yourself, this isn't a business or college letter, it's the youtube comment section.
Well said, LionMan. You tube has become an invaluable asset for people to learn things they don't know much about. I echo your thanks.
it's like you know exactly where i'm at .. i'm just starting woodworking .. i bought a couple of hand tools and bought boards of wood to build my workbench .. but because i got low on funds i can't buy any more wood but i still need something to work off of.. so my design is going to be 90 cm high and i'm 187 cm tall about 6'2" so i guess i'm going to deal with the exact same problem .. so this is perfect!! i can just use the table as an assembly surface and a mini work bench to do everything else !!
thank you for your time and effort to show this for us !
Patrick, you videos are a huge amazing discovery to me!
Keep filming💪🏻🔥🔥🔥
Patrick Sullivan, your videos are the BEST! Straight forward, clear enough for the beginner, me, and great topics! Love them!!!
I built my bench based on Paul Seller's recommendations and it's nice and high. My back hurts just looking at yours.
Love you mini workbench Patrick. Thanks for sharing.
What great description and analysis you provided
As always, your projects are well thought out, and your narrative is 100% accurate. Splines and biscuits, dowels, do NOT make a joint any stronger. 40 years ago, we tested this in my carpentry apprenticeship class. EVERY TIME, the wood breaks first. Dados, rabbits, box joints, etc., are for alignment, and MORE GLUING SURFACE.
Because I have built-in cabinets in my garage, my bench needs to fit under them (35"). My back has been aching enough that working in the garage has been less over time. I don't know why I did not think of a mini-bench, as I use a "mini-router" table & a few other work jig/tools on my bench top. Thanks for getting my head in the game again.
Jste moc šikovný a toto je pro mě veliká inspirace, neboť trpím na bolesti zad. Moc se mi Vaše video líbilo. Děkuji a ať se Vám daří.
Excellent presentation of a good looking tool. Much appreciate your discussion on how the workbench was designed and your experience / lessons learned in using it.
I loved the beginning of this video with your illustration of why our backs hurt. Then you went on to make a really good mini bench build. Congrats.
I really appreciate your focus on small tools that can be used in a small shop using modern materials. Keep it up, I'll keep watching. There isn't enough stuff like this on TH-cam. I know it's allot of extra work to create these videos, so thanks for sharing.
Finally!! Someone who agrees with the fact that kitchen counters are just too damn low for a lot of men. We cook too, damn it!
Currently fitting out a workshop that'll be used by a group of seniors whose heights range from 5' to 6'4". This idea settles a LOT of arguments and gives me a great idea for a series of projects for the guys to work on :)
Thanks Patrick!
Incredibly well narrated and to the point. I have been pondering many of the same issues that you brought up, so this is a great help.Thank you
I just found this video. I’m starting a hand tools elective at my middle school. I’ve been thinking of ways to attach a small bench top to the lab benches (countertop style) without drilling holes. No overhang for clamping on the counters. The mouse pad idea is great. Of course, I’ll be using plywood, mdf and 2x stock to make about 20 of these. Thanks for the ideas.
At 6'4", I wish I could do the same for the kitchen sink!!! Awesome project.
nice job. good on you for not only designing it how you wanted, but also telling us about changes you would make if doing it again.
I made a regular floor standing mini bench which is so handy for moving around and especially for outside work. Your bench standing mini bench is something I never considered, but the idea is great and will be next on my list of shop builds. Thanks for including the design adjustments and not just cutting them from the video, it’s those kind of tips that are really helpful for a novice like me. A big thank you from the UK.
As someone who is 6'2 this is a great idea. So simple yet so well executed. I shall get to work on something like this straight away!!!
A well presented video. Lots of good information and safety hints. I work mostly, with metal and I really enjoy watching woodworking videos. Cheers, mate.
This is the best idea I've seen in awhile - perfect for those details you are always bending over to eyeball closely. And you can take it anywhere for mini projects to boot.
Patrick: Your woodworking expertise and generosity in supplying plans at no cost is remarkable.Thank you so very much!
Clear sound and crystal clear HD video - and the mini workbench is an excellent design.
i agree, it will giv people insperation. lignator jack., u.k.
WOW , very nice build . I'm just retired and wanted a bit of a challenge , so I decided returning to woodworking . i had started years ago but other things were more important . Anyway I recently made a small bench to putter on and made it at belly button height , as did you , I see . LOL Thank you for some really good tips .
Hey Patrick, new subscriber, just wanted to say it's so refreshing to have an experienced wood worker here on TH-cam that actually knows his craft. Thank you Sir for your clarity in audio, video and explanations on your designs and builds and your attention to detail. Not to mention offering your designs without charging a fee for them, that's unheard of these days. I WILL be watching and waiting for new videos that you might be putting out in the future. In the meantime I'll be catching up on your past videos.☺ Take care and God Bless!!!
This is a good idea. I think I read about certain craftspeople using tall workbenches for this reason.
karya anda sangat bagus sekali.. tidak pernah terpikir dan terbayangkan sebelumnya bahwa ini bisa dibuat.. saya kagum dengan anda.. selamat berkarya.. salam hangat dari indonesia..
Excellent video. Interesting project, well narrated and very high production values.
I’m only 5’9” - I used to be 5’11” but one of my doctors told me that, with age, comes gravity. So people get shorter after a certain point in their life and their foot size gets bigger - all due to gravity. So I measured my self and I have shrunk 2” and my shoe size increased by 1 to 1.5 sizes. I would also like to blame gravity for my increasing waist line but, apparently, that has other causes.
I made my auxiliary bench a few years ago and, in form, it’s much like yours. I used European beech because of its stability and set boards on edge, glueing them together cup up, cup down - again for stability. I included some dog holes which are very useful. My vice is a little different in that the front face is the same dimensions as the main bench and I use that main bench as my back face. That’s fine but I installed 2 separate vice screws with a plain bore in that front face of the vice. No problem when screwing in because the front face does pull in; but, when widening the vice gap, the screws some put but the front face remains. For years, I have said that I must install hex nuts in that front face so it automatically goes in and comes out. I might actually fit insert thread fixings instead ( not those with the prongs that you hammer in but the ones where you drill a larger hole and use an Allen key to screw then in; I know what I a, thinking even if my words don’t help) . This video is a kick in the brains to get this job done
Hey Patrick, Great video. I am 6' 10" tall. I have a big old European bench that I built a riser for. I took 2x12 lumber and built a heavy as hell platform that the bench sits on and in(there is a two inch lip around the platform). It doesn't budge, and raises the bench up about 9". That helps so much. Similar idea, but just done on the bottom, instead of the top. Raises the whole bench instead of a smaller surface. Of course I still have a problem with the table saw and other areas of my shop. My back is not great. I have to limit my time now, or my back just reacts very badly. Age... Thanks for a great video.
I'm 6'1" and I have three work benches in my shop that are all 42" tall. Everyone thinks it looks silly but it made way more sense to me when I built them. My first workbench was about 36 in tall and I hated it unless I'm working on something large I do have a shorter fold-out table just in case I need to work on something taller but it almost never gets used. If you are building workbenches for yourself, I would always try to make those work benches come to a place on your chest is if you were sitting down comfortably at a table to work on something. The concept of the stand-up desk is what inspired me to make the work services in my shop much taller than the standard workbench.
+1 for the ergonomics content. -- People seem to always completely ignore usability and ergonomics in their DIY projects...
I really like the care and attention you pay to every detail of the build - and end up with jigs/tools that are just as beautiful as the items they help construct. Also - thanks for sharing measurements in both imperial and metric which saves us Europeans from having to do a mental conversion! A great video.
Thank for sharing this video. My bench is suddenly also my home office as I teach remotely due the virus. I am starting to feel it in my back. Your simple design would work well as a mini bench and a standing desk to place my laptop. Tomorrow, I know what I can do with all this newfound free time.
Your videos make me happy. They remind me of my dad teaching me, and I hope my children will also have memories of me like this.
Mr. Sullivan--your videos are amazing. Thank you so much!
it's great for someone who has limited space, thank you.
Real craftsman. My lots of respect to you sir!
Excelente video y muy completo, gracias por compartir los planos. Saludos desde argentina 🇦🇷
Informative and well presented with "methods" and "markups". Beautiful and inspirational to give it a try! Sublime
Nice planing/dovetailing bench. I happened to build a mini-bench last month from 8/4 hard maple with a Moxon face vise, using twin screws from Germany. Mine has holes for bench dogs and holdfasts. I attached 3/4 ash boards beneath the bench top to facilitate overall thickness for holdfasts. The legs are attached to the top with sliding dovetails. I like the bench so much I may build another.
I always learned something, even as simple as repurposing mousepads...pleased that you showed your process, including your "shoulda, couldas". Especially since the legs are removable, why not go back and recess the inner jaw of the vise?
WOW!! A reality of to my question, and an event I have toying with. Many thanks, sir!
Its a nice piece i need one of this working bench or table it was skillfully done by a master like you. Thanks for the design and knowledge.
I have made several workbenches and I always install the vise proud of the front edge, as you have shown here, and not recessed. The huge advantage in doing this is it enables you to grip any work piece in your right hand while you turn the vise with your left. I use a 3/4" pad on the back jaw face so the gap between the back face of the work piece and the front edge of the bench top is wide enough to fit my hand in so I don't squish it when I tighten the jaws. Also, I am 6'1" and make all my benches 40" tall. This is easy on the back, especially during carving.
Found your channel today... Love watching your videos. Your Skill is obvious and the Videos themselves are done in an well received teaching style... Thanks.
Thanks Mr. Patrick... I´l make one for me... I need it even though I´m not tall ...Greetings from Medellin, Colombia!!!!
You know a video is good when you lose track of time and just watch it from start to finish. I think natural born teachers make the best videos. Thanks for the many useful tips.
I'm pleased you came up on my recommended videos, this is a great idea and surely beneficial for your back health as you say.
Thanks for including metric! I'd say your work bench is a master peace.
I'm a beginner woodworker. I have been watching a lot of DIY videos, This is one of the best videos I have seen so far that demonstrates simple techniques and tips. I really like all the jigs you have made to work with your vice. Looking forward to seeing your other videos
Hi Patrick. I just want to say how nice your video's are. I watch a lot of "how to" video's on TH-cam, and yours are by far the best I have watched. Product endorsements are short but informative, and your audio is clear and concise, with a very professional approach. Well done! I look forward to viewing more, thanks.
Great video. I’m building a mini workbench for work but using some of the concepts from Paul Sellers workbench build. I have restored a heavy duty metal utility cart and building a 23”X20” workbench to fit in the pan. My next step is to bolt it to the cart. Thanks again.
Your idea is so practical I'm surprised I haven't seen it until now.
Thank you. Its funny how things work out. I decided to teach/practice dovetails over the last few days. Woke up today feeling like a mule kicked me between the shoulder blades. Sat down with youtube and a coffee and there was your video.
Now I need to figure out what vice to use. A normal vice wouldn't allow a drawer face or side to pass through it
Hi Patrick ... absolutely love your mini bench. Well conceived and executed ... it came out beautiful. I'm now living in a retirement community and wanted something along these lines to clamp to my SS Prep Table in my kitchen, your design has inspired me to build one similar but but personalized to my hobby set.
Very well done and thank you for the inspiration. I look forward to more of your projects.
Cheers, dave
Great clip. You have that 'I'm experienced' look and feel to your work and appearance. I felt like I just watched a Master Craftsman. Thankyou.
Great idea! And I do like how detailed you description is - both video and spoken word.
Wow, beautiful design. I wish I would have seen this video before Christmas as my wife makes dollhouses and this would be perfect for her! Again, great and simple design! Thanks!
Very nice and very useful small bench. I use an auxiliary bench that's not as tall because I made my current bench to a height that's 2 to 2.5 inches less than the height of my elbow with arm bent. I arrived at this after observing that every good hand tool craftsman I've seen has his/her arm parallel with the bench top when hand planing (for good reason), and that the taller ones -- e.g. Chris Schwarz -- are practically in a sprinter's crouch... Clyde
amazing idea! beautiful explanation! Useful for so many everyday aplication. wonderfully acomplished! thank you so much!
Mr. Sullivan this a great build, tnx for sharing it with the world!! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻🛠👍🏻👌🏻👊🏻
hi patrick thank you for doing this video
like yourself i do find working on a bench to be painful i have had spinal operations so i know longer have the muscles in my back to hold myself as i work
so iv asked and looked up what is the right height to work on a bench with out pain
so untill this video iv bin told to stand infront of your bench and if your bench top is the same height of your wrist thats the right height and its not and just doing placing timber on the bench to find the height that works for you works and i will be making a small bench and take on the improvements of the legs and vice so again thank you so so much
I love all of your videos. Always useful content but better than that you always fully explain what you're doing, how you're doing it, and why. Your videos are perfect for someone like me who learns things from visual and hands on techniques.
Great idea and beautifully made Patrick
As usual Patrick another fine woodworking job with a very detailed video i personally wound up with a Traumatic Brain Injury a few years ago that caused some paralysis in my limbs in order for me to. Get things done with only. One working hand ive come up with using all types of clamps and holding mechanisms. I use temporarily ironically i found out the same thing about mouse pads as you brought up. I buy many of them at a store called five and Below or wherever i can find inexpensive ones to cut up ! My son and son-in-law are both computer guys that work in the trade that requires them to go on many conventions as well and they grab as many free ones as they can because they know i dont care what the design is or who its promoting
Nice work! I have also used a mouse pad for grip: I cut it to size for use on my push blocks. It has lasted for years.
What a neat Little work bench! Might build one for my Kitchen, less the vice of course
Thank you for fully explaining why one would need a mini workbench. I’ve seen many makers building them and making them ever so fancy, but no one explained what purpose it served! Makes a lot of sense. I especially appreciate your sharing your thought process.
Great. You should absolutely make more videos on wood shop tools ....
Gracias amigo por el aporte de diseños, lo felicito, también me suscribí gracias.Luis de Peru
👍👍👍👍👍👍
Very nice.
Beautiful work.
In french now : très très beau travail, bien pensé et réalisé de
A à Z.
Je vais tenter de le faire pour moi même.
Excellent. Thanks for taking the time to show us your mini. A lot of good ideas here.
Beautiful. Practical. Admirable. Thanks.
Thank you for sharing! I'm planning my new mini workbench based on your ideas soon! Cheers!
This mini workbench is beautiful, simple, and solves the aching back problem (if one has an aching back...and if you don’t now, just wait until years are added!)
I have been considering a mini bench for a while now, I make a LOT of very small parts out of plastic for contract / personal prototyping electronics, I do not need a full blown workbench, I don't need a billion options for shaping a chair leg, I need something stout I can plop down on one of my two work tables out in the 1 car and get stuff done
The sparseness of this design with its heft and utility is something I would consider vs what I have seen
Muchas gracias por ideas tan simples y trabajos practicos
I have the " table top " for it, its a cut away from some miserably done job. Basically its three 2x4's glued up together. In order to start the next level of woodworking i really need to stop struggling with my metal vice.
Your proposition appealed to me and it is a time to buy proper woodworking vice .
Really smart looking mini bench. As you mention, you could probably build it a little thinner and out of a little lighter wood to save some heft but I dig the big slab of maple. Nice work man, I may have to build myself something similar.