How to build a workbench

A first workbench is usually a 2x4 frame with a flat top and a shelf underneath. It has to be stiff enough not to rack when you plane or saw on it, and the top has to stay flat under load. Set your sizes below and the engine checks it.

Check your size first

Free, instant and no account. The engine checks it the way a structural engineer would, and says so plainly when it won't hold up.

What goes wrong on a workbench

Racking under work: Sawing and planing push the bench sideways. A frame without stretchers or a lower shelf tied in wobbles, and the check looks for what keeps it rigid.
Top deflection: A long top over a wide span flexes when you lean on the middle. The check works out how far it moves for your length and stock.
Working height: Too low hurts your back and too high makes planing hard. The plan builds to the height you give it, so measure from the floor to your wrist with your arms hanging.

The build, start to finish

Cut the 2x4 legs and rails from the cut list.
Build the two end frames.
Join the end frames with the long rails, then add the lower shelf supports.
Fix the top and the lower shelf.
Check it's flat and doesn't rock, then put it to work.

The full plan has the exact cut list, a shopping list, a 3D view you can stand in your room, and step-by-step assembly for your sizes.

Other builds

Setting up your bench…

Build guides · Workbench