Everyone needs storage space for tools, but building a workbench can be an intimidating prospect--and ready-made workbenches are often expensive. You can use inexpensive metal connectors to make a workbench (figure A) out of standard 2" by 4" lumber, and you won't need special tools or advanced skills. Some brands of connectors are sold with a blueprint for a basic workbench (and even a parts list) to make figuring out the dimensions even easier. You can adjust the measurements to suit your needs. A basic workbench needs four "legs" (vertical pieces) and eight cross-pieces (horizontal pieces). The length of the two front legs determines the height of the workbench. The two back legs can be made longer to accommodate a shelf, if desired. For adequate support, attach two rows of cross-pieces around the bench. Materials:
Measuring tape
2" x 4" lumber
Sheet of 1/2" or 3/4" plywood
Circular saw
Safety glasses
Drill, with Phillips driver bit
Metal connectors
- After determining your measurements, measure and mark 2" by 4" boards to the appropriate lengths for the workbench components (figure B). Wearing safety glasses, use a circular saw to cut the boards to size (figure C).
- Mark the leg pieces for the locations where the cross-pieces will be attached. Plan to attach one row of cross-pieces to each leg about 12" from the ground and another row flush with the top of the front legs.
Place a connector at the marked spot (figure D), clamp it into place, and secure with screws. You can drill pilot holes first or use self-tapping screws (figure E). - Insert the cross-pieces into the connectors, and screw them into place.
- Measure and cut a sheet of 1/2" or 3/4" plywood for the top of the workbench. Notch the back corners of the plywood to make room for the back legs of the bench (figure F). Attach the plywood to the top of the workbench frame with screws.
RESOURCES :
Metal connector kit
Simpson Strong-Tie Co. Inc.
Pleasanton, CA 94588-0789
Phone: 925-460-9912
Fax: 925-847-0694
Email: web@strongtie.com
Website: www.strongtie.com
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