How to Build a Work Bench
How to Build a Work Bench
Work benches are normally made of timber. The type of timber used varies, depending on the purpose of the work bench. Generally untreated timber is used to make work benches that are used for in-house purpose. But in case of outdoor activities, you need to resort to treated timber.
Once the type of timber has been selected, the next step would be to decide on the size that you would like your work bench to be. Depending on the size of the bench required, depends on the type of timber has to be purchased. Work benches mainly consist of the top portion, the frame and the bracing.
While starting off, one has a choice of either building from the bottom or from the top. Let.s start off from the bottom. Initially, you need to get the dimensions of work bench. Based on the height requirements, the frame will need to be made. The frame comprises of the legs and bracing. From the timber, four legs of equal size and height have to be cut and smoothened. Once the four legs are ready, they will need to be joined together using the connecting timber blocks. This will give you a rectangular shape with four legs, one at each corner. Ensure that the connecting bars are of equal size. If not, the distance between the legs will not be proper. The legs have to be properly nailed, and the size of the holes drilled must be proper for the nails to fit in.
Once the legs are fixed, you need to add support to them. The support can be given using bracing. Bracing is a rectangular piece of timber that connects the bottom of one leg facing the front to the top of the other. Similarly another bracing needs to be done for the other two legs, facing the backside. The sides are left free without bracing. You should be very careful while fixing the bracing; the reason behind this is they are just a thin piece of timber and if you apply more pressure while nailing them, there is a good chance that you will break them.
Now that the bottom part is ready, the last step would be to fix the top portion of the work bench. The top portion will be a bit bigger in dimension, when compared to the distance between the legs. This would give a better look and finish for the work bench. Once the top is ready, you will need to drill holes for the nails. For this, the top is just placed on top of the legs and points are marked on the left and right side of the top plank. Once the points have been marked, the plank needs to be carefully removed and the holes should be drilled slightly larger than the nail. The reason is some parts of the nail will be buried inside the portion of the leg for grip. After drilling, the top portion is ready to be placed on the legs and nailed.
The work bench is now ready. To add more beauty to it, you can smooth its edges and sun mica (a type of sheet) to provide shine.