A portable workbench is a must-have for anyone looking for a compact workspace solution. At times, you may not be comfortable or you may not have the required amount of space for a full-sized workbench. This is where a portable design comes to your rescue. Also, carrying a full-size workbench can be quite a pain and troublesome. On the other hand, a portable workbench is lightweight which makes it easier for you to travel around with. Portable workbenches are also called folding workbench or mobile workbench. A portable work table gives you just the right amount of space to work in with many additional features as well. Having a portable or folding work table gives you the freedom and flexibility to move it around as required.Now you won’t have to manoeuvre a large wooden table for you to work with. Simply invest in a portable workbench that will allow you to carry ok with your work with ease. The best part about having a foldable workbench is that you can easily fold it after use and store them even in limited spaces. This way you won’t have to compromise on the space factor. You can simply station it in your garage or even in the basement as it consumes very less area. Today, you can find a wide range of options and brands that are into manufacturing portable workbenches. Here is A Brief Introduction To Portable Workbench and ways to diy one.
What Should We Consider When Picking Up A Portable Workbench??
Just like any other product that we buy, we also need to look into some important factors that will help us to determine the best one for our needs. In this section, let us have a deeper look at the various factors that you need to consider before purchasing a portable workbench.?
- Surface Area & Height
The first thing that you should look for in an adjustable workbench is the surface area along with the height. A good surface area with height is mandatory as it will allow you to work on a variety of tasks with ease. Getting the best workbench will also give you the flexibility to use it for various kinds of work. Also, it is crucial that your workbench has a good height or look for an adjustable height bench that can be useful for your work.?
- Weight Bearing Capacity
You would not want your portable workstation to crumble down with excess weight. Hence, you must have a look at the maximum weight that your portable workbench can handle or withstand. If your work involves all lightweight stuff, then you won’t need a heavyweight bearing table. On the other hand, if you work a lot with heavy items, then it is best to go for a workbench on wheels.?
- Build Quality?
A good quality fold up workbench will be easily able to handle strong jerks or handle more weight. This is why you must get a portable workbench that has a good build quality as it gives you a longer shelf life. A work bench made of the best materials will definitely give you amazing results. Also, a good workstation will also be lightweight thus allowing you to transfer them easily. In other words, they will be portable as well.
How To Make A Folding Workbench Using The Most Common Materials From Home Stores?
Now, this is where it gets exciting. Are you the kind of person that loves to build stuff right at the comfort of your home? Then, we have brought to you a fun and exciting DIY workbench that you can try doing. So grab all of your good stuff and let’s get going.?
Simple Wood Workbench?
This one is a pretty easy and simple DIY project that can be done in under 2 hours with a small budget of between $50-$100.?
Materials & Tools Required:?
– Cordless Drill
– Circular Saw?
– Safety Glasses?
– Miter Saw?
– Tape Measure
– Straightedge?
– 3-in. drywall screws
– 1-5/8-in. drywall screws
– 4 x 8 x 1/2-in. plywood
– 2x4s
Step 1: Assemble the frames?
The first step requires you to assemble the workbench dimensions and put them according to the upper and lower shelf.?
Step 2: Attach the legs?
Then, you need to go ahead and fix the legs to the surface frame in positions.?
Step 3: Attach the lower frame?
Here, you can flip the workbench over and attach the lower frame. This will make it easier for you to attach and fix them in place. You can also use paint cans that will support the lower frame while attaching.?
Step 4: Attach the work surfaces?
The next step involves you to attach the work surface areas by screwing them in. Now you will have a proper table in place.?
Step 5: Make the top shelf frame?
Then, you need to assemble or build the top shelf frame. Also, add plywood to completely finish off with the layer.
Step 6: Attach the top shelf legs?
Turn the top shelf upside down and then go ahead to attach the top shelf legs. This is a two-layer workstation that will give you an ample amount of space to work with.?
Step 7: Assemble all of them together
Now, here is the step where you assemble the top shelves and the bottom shelves into one. Screw the parts well and secure them firmly. Here is your new DIY portable workbench all ready to rock. If you would like to work on it more, you can even consider painting it to your favourite colour. This is however, optional.?
You can also add additional features in the dry folding workbench like adding lights. You need lights while working on a workstation. Hence, get a 4-foot light and fix it to the bottom of the top shelf. This will give you a good light for you to work with. This is an easy and good starter DIY project that you can start experimenting with. Since we are using wood, you can be sure of the quality of the portable workbench. Do try it out and let us know your feedback on the same.?
Q&A
4.1 What kind of wood should I use for a workbench??
Two of the most dominant wood choices that rule are ash and pine. You could also consider choosing oak as well it is known to be quite sturdy and firm. Additionally, if you wish to look for cheaper or affordable options, then consider getting any plywood that is dry and heavy as well. It should not be too lightweight as you won’t be able to work with heavy stuff.?
4.2 What’s the optimal height for a workbench??
The optimal height for a workbench is 86cm-91cm which is 34″-36″. This height is the most commonly used one for foldable work tables. If you wish to go for a low height portable workbench, then consider 29″-30″ (74cm-76cm). On the other hand, if you need a worktable with a tall height, then go for 38″-39″ (97cm-99cm). However, at the end, you can choose a height that is most comfortable for you and your tasks.?
4.3 What’s a portable workbench used for??
The main use of a portable workbench is to hold other equipment while you are busy working on the table. You can use it to hold your workpieces together and even give support to the tasks or projects that you are building. A workstation gives you the right amount of space to freely perform your tasks. Though your work may be different, you can use a portable workbench in multiple ways. Put the bench to good use as it allows you with the flexibility with your work.?
4.4 What is the difference between a portable workbench and a portable worktable??
The only difference between the two is the size. While a portable workbench is smaller in size and is similar to a bench, a portable workable is much wider. While a bench gives you less space or area to work on, a portable workable offers you with an ample amount of space to with. This is the only main difference between a portable workbench and a portable worktable.?
Conclusion:?
In this article, we have looked into the details of portable workbenches. If you have been planning to buy one of these amazing beauties, then we would advise you to simply try this DIY portable workstation that will give you the freedom and space to work according to your needs. Create a dedicated space for your tasks, work and other DIY projects with this simple and easy portable workbench. We are sure that you can use the table in numerous ways and will also enable you to get your work done in a faster manner. Do try out the DIY portable workbench and let us know how it turned out for you. Also, do share this article with your friends, family and people who are on the lookout for an interesting DIY project.?
Varsha