By no means am I a professional woodworker or even that great of a novice, but I truly enjoy anything DIY, from rocks to electronics, and anything in between. So, with that being said, about four months ago I had an idea! I needed a good, DIY multi-purpose workbench for tinkering around with various types of projects; not necessarily just woodworking. So, I dipped into my elaborate pile of reclaimed wood pallets and more and went to work. I wanted to build a DIY Multi-Purpose Workbench, and I wanted to add some handy features for flexibility.
The DIY Multi-Purpose Workbench Frame, Using Various Joinery Styles:
First, I started the build with a 4 x 4 x 8′ posts. I had to decide how to join the legs and supports of the frame, and this inspired me. I decided to try something different. I built the frame with various joints using a Japanese straight saw. I began by connecting the two ends with a lap joint and the rest with some wood joints I don’t even think exist.
A DIY Multi-Purpose Workbench Means Thinking Creatively!
Once I got the initial frame built, it was time to make it a true multi-purpose workbench! I mounted a super-thick 12″x 14″ block to one end for pounding, sweating, carving, drilling, or anything you needed a good solid surface for. By doing this, it naturally threw off the height from the rest of the table. That ended up being good because having that offset is used for other applications.
After the rest of the top of the workbench was finished, I still had a 12 x 14″ square in the top right corner of the bench. This gave me a unique idea, and I put a 12 x 14″ plastic bin in the hole and mounted it. It’s perfect for water experiments or catching metal/wood waste, for mixing products or holding hardware. I just thought it was a nifty addition.
I installed a DIY bench clamp that I made from bearings, threaded rod, and a handle. I added on a metal bar underneath the workbench top for wire spools. I mounted an old office chair arm to lean against for freestyle work. (I use this a quite a bit). I’ve also added hooks to hold various tools, such as a circular saw and a bench brush.
More Ideas for Long-Term Use:
For now, that’s all the bells I have added – but I am starting to work on the whistles. I would like to add casters for portability and a vacuum pump of some type of dust control/fume ventilation. Long-term, I might add an overhead winch.
So there it is for my crazy, on-going project that really is a work in process. I hope you like my DIY Multi-Purpose Workbench, and it inspires you to think outside of the box! If anyone would like me to post back with updates in a couple of months, just let me know.
Thanks!
The lever is for ripping pallets apart . This is a good looking one too . The longer the handle the less effort is required .
And yes, updates, want to see where this goes,tumbler & dremmel attachments or vacuum. ..whatever
way way cool. Like your style & imagination!
Looks nice, but I can’t work out what the handle is for.