THE first project

[Kaleb Lindley]

I am looking to build a workbench or something small as a first project and recommendations on small pieces or something to just take up a little of my free time. I am looking for bench ideas post some pictures of your first workbenches to give me ideas on little nooks and crannies to have on/ in my first table/ bench! Thank you for your input! Stay classy fellow WWers!

[Daniel O'Neill]

Welcome to the creek. Lots of good info here!
If I ever can I am drooling to build this LVL Workbench (http://www.popularwoodworking.com/woodworking-blogs/editors-blog/lvl-workbench-plans-free) It looks great and is an interesting use. Plus I think the LVL would look cool layered up like they have it.

[Ole Anderson]

Sorry mine was just made out of left over 3" laminated roof decking. Super sturdy though. Hey, welcome to the Creek by the way! Building stuff for your shop like a workbench or router table is a great way to get started, where small goofs are no big deal, as opposed to, say, a dining room table.

[Rick Potter]

Used $10 solid core door from Habitat ReStore, some 2/4's and build a quick workbench. Then, make a basic benchtop router table for a few bucks. Use them both for a while, till you know how you would like to modify them, then build nice ones.

[Andrew Pitonyak]

Welcome to SMC..... This post amused me, glad I was not drinking when I read it.


I am looking to build a workbench or something small as a first project

OK, so the amusing thing was...... "yeah, thinking about building a workbench" (you know, something potentially major and really complicated) .... or ..... "something small"..... "for a first project".

I ended up purchasing a bench from woodcraft and I like it very much.
http://www.woodcraft.com/product/158461/sjobergs-scandi-plus-1425-with-sm03-storage-cabinet.aspx


So, if you really are looking to build a bench, can you clarify size and how involved do you want it? Are you thinking something really simple? This can be as simple as using construction lumber; think 2x4 and 4x4 material for legs and apron bolted together. Then, slapping some plywood (or similar) on top. For example, see this: http://www.startwoodworking.com/sites/default/files/free-workbench-plan.pdf That particular plan uses a sheet of MDF that has been cut in half and then glued and screwed together (I think). This makes it very easy to build. The MDF is not super durable, but, it will probably be pretty flat (as things go).

The family handyman also has some "easy" suggestions:
http://www.familyhandyman.com/workshop/workbench/how-to-build-a-workbench-super-simple-50-bench/view-all

Note that you can also purchase a laminated Maple top in a few different sizes
http://www.woodcraft.com/product/145685/24-x-60-laminated-maple-bench-top-70-lbs.aspx

Christopher Swartz has spent much time on this, here is an article (and a video you can purchase).
http://www.popularwoodworking.com/projects/175_workbench (article)
http://www.shopwoodworking.com/build-a-sturdy-workbench-group (video you can buy for $15).

Oh, and he has a book: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0051Q8CW6

If you want to build a fancy workbench, then you can purchase some really nice vice hardware (for example from Benchcrafted or Lee Valley).

If you are looking to build something smaller, I really LOVE my Moxon vice. Admittedly, I purchased mine from Benchcrafted, but it was pricey.

You can build one cheaper, especially if you sacrifice a bit on the hardware: http://www.wkfinetools.com/contrib/wMyers/moxonVise/moxonVise-01.asp

http://www.popularwoodworking.com/woodworking-blogs/chris-schwarz-blog/questions-moxon-vise

Really, google around a bit. These are great! You can find something similar.

https://www.toolsforworkingwood.com/store/item/MS-MOX.XX/Moxon_Vise__and_Hardware_Kits_-_MK2


Or, you can start even smaller by building a very small box, say to hold toothpicks :D

[Ole Anderson]

It sounds like the OP is looking for a first project rather than a quick workbench so he can get on with a "real" project. Frankly some of my most rewarding projects were things I built for the shop, particularly my router table and my DC system. As for my first "real" project after getting my TS (beyond fairly simple bookshelves) was this computer hutch. Still my most complicated to date.

[Brian Tymchak]

I built a slightly modified version of Bob Lang's 21st Century workbench featured in Popular Woodworking. I had previously built some shop and garage cabinets, etc, from plywood and laminate. But, as far as milling rough lumber as needed (I used 8/4 Ash) that was a real milestone for me, forcing me to learn techniques, use all the power tools (jointer, planer, TS) and some hand tools for some of the joinery. Even had to learn some sharpening skills to keep the chisels effective. I think it's a great project to learn a bunch of woodworking skills. Good luck with yours Kaleb!

[Art Mann]

I would feel better about making a recommendation if I knew what tools you will have available for this project. That has a big impact on what you can and can't do. The second question I have is whether you are going to use it for hand tool work or if you are going to primarily use it in a power shop. I mostly use power tools and don't need as sophisticated a bench as the "neanderthals". I'm guessing you are like me because this is the power tools forum.