92+ Workbench With Built-In Lockable Drawers

mikesworkbench.wordpress.com

Opening: Building Your Own Secure Workbench Tired of your tools going missing or simply want a more organized workspace? This guide will walk you through building a sturdy 92-inch workbench with lockable drawers, providing both ample work surface and secure storage. This project requires intermediate woodworking skills and access to tools like a table saw, miter saw, drill, and router. Be sure to wear safety glasses and hearing protection throughout the process.

Step 1: Gathering Materials and Tools Before you start, make sure you have all the necessary materials and tools on hand. This will save you time and frustration later on. Here's a comprehensive list:

• Lumber: Plywood (3/4" thick) for the workbench top, drawers, and drawer faces. Consider using hardwood plywood for extra durability. Pine or similar softwood for the frame and drawer boxes.
• Hardware: Wood screws (various lengths), drawer slides (full-extension recommended), lockable drawer pulls, wood glue, sandpaper (various grits), paint or stain, polyurethane or other protective finish.
• Tools: Table saw, miter saw, drill, impact driver, router (optional), measuring tape, square, clamps, safety glasses, hearing protection.

Carefully calculate the amount of lumber you need based on the dimensions provided in the subsequent steps. It's always wise to buy slightly extra in case of mistakes.

Step 2: Building the Workbench Frame The frame provides the structural support for your workbench. Accurately cutting and assembling the frame is crucial for a stable and level work surface.

Cut the frame pieces according to the following approximate dimensions (adjust as needed for your specific needs):

Legs: 4 pieces of lumber, cut to 34 inches (height).

Side Rails: 2 pieces of lumber, cut to 90.5 inches (length).

Front and Back Rails: 2 pieces of lumber, cut to 22.5 inches (length).

Center Support Rail (optional, for extra strength): 1 piece of lumber, cut to 90.5 inches (length).

Assemble the frame using wood glue and screws. Ensure all corners are square.

If using a center support rail, attach it to the underside of the frame, running lengthwise.

Reinforce the corners with additional lumber pieces, if desired, for added stability.

Step 3: Creating the Workbench Top The workbench top should be durable and provide a smooth, even surface.

Cut the plywood for the workbench top to 92 inches in length and 24 inches in width.

If desired, you can laminate two sheets of plywood together for a thicker, more robust top. Use wood glue and clamps to bond the sheets.

Attach the workbench top to the frame using screws from the underside. Ensure the top is securely fastened to all frame members.

Optional: Round over the edges of the workbench top with a router for a more comfortable work surface.

Step 4: Constructing the Drawers The drawers provide storage for your tools and materials. Accurate measurements are critical for smooth-sliding drawers.

Measure the interior dimensions of the workbench frame to determine the maximum size of the drawer boxes.

Cut the drawer box pieces from plywood or solid wood. Typically, drawer boxes consist of two sides, a front, and a back.

Assemble the drawer boxes using wood glue and screws or nails. Ensure the drawers are square.

Cut the drawer faces from plywood or solid wood. These should be slightly larger than the drawer box openings.

Attach the drawer slides to the drawer boxes and the inside of the workbench frame. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper installation.

Step 5: Installing Drawer Faces and Locks This step involves attaching the drawer faces to the drawer boxes and installing the lockable drawer pulls.

Attach the drawer faces to the drawer boxes using screws. Ensure the faces are aligned properly with the drawer box openings.

Install the lockable drawer pulls on the drawer faces according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Test the drawers to ensure they slide smoothly and lock securely. Make any necessary adjustments.

Step 6: Finishing and Final Touches Protecting your workbench with a durable finish will prolong its life and make it easier to clean.

Sand the entire workbench to smooth out any rough edges or imperfections.

Apply a paint or stain of your choice to the workbench. Let it dry completely.

Apply several coats of polyurethane or other protective finish to the workbench, allowing each coat to dry before applying the next.

Install any additional features, such as a vise or pegboard, as desired.

Conclusion: Your Secure Workbench is Complete! Congratulations! You've successfully built a 92-inch workbench with lockable drawers. You now have a dedicated workspace that's both functional and secure. Enjoy your new workbench and happy crafting!

The Last Of Us

mikesworkbench.wordpress.com

Related Posts by Categories