ᐅ Workshop setup / workbench

Created on: 19 Dec 2019 09:03
D
denz.
D
denz.
19 Dec 2019 09:03
Good morning,

I am finally planning to set up my workshop properly. For that, I first need a large workbench. I have just under 3 meters (about 2.9 meters (9.5 feet)) available, since otherwise a double power outlet would be partially blocked.

I have already found a few manufacturers like Kreher, Krüpper, Rau, Stier... but some are quite expensive, and of course, I have no experience regarding their quality.

For example, a Stier 2500 x 600 x 860 mm (98 x 24 x 34 inches) series workbench with two cabinets, each 700 mm (28 inches) wide, costs around 1200 euros.

What kind of workbench do you have in your workshop?
Dr Hix19 Dec 2019 09:40
At the moment, an old desk is still serving its purpose, but in the medium term, I plan to build one myself. It will be custom-made, relatively affordable, and a good first project. There was someone here who had solved this quite nicely using OSB boards.

Basically, you should first think about what you actually want to do in your workshop. I don’t need 16 drawers with an 80 kg (176 lb) load capacity each if I’m only storing woodworking tools and materials. For a car mechanic with lots of wrenches, drawers would of course be more suitable—but probably better placed in the garage rather than the basement, so a rolling tool cabinet instead of a workbench.
D
denz.
19 Dec 2019 09:49
Yes, I have also noticed the OSB panels cracking. However, I didn’t find that very appealing. For me, the garage and workshop are basically one room, only half separated by a wall. I still need to figure out how many drawers I need and their sizes.

At this point, I’m mainly looking for a general direction— which manufacturers offer workbenches and accessories, and which ones are good quality for hobby use.

I haven’t done much woodworking so far, but that could change. For now, I’m focused on “standard tools.” My equipment is mostly power tools, a soldering iron, and things related to house construction.
S
Scout
19 Dec 2019 09:52
I simply took the base cabinets from the old kitchen and placed them in the utility room next to the washing machine, which I was able to install underneath easily. I put an old countertop on top (or a painted OSB board) and that works well. I have plenty of drawers and sometimes a larger interior space in the cabinet.

If you don’t have an old kitchen: with IKEA’s METOD system, you can easily create something yourself in 20cm (8 inches) increments. Or check classified ads.

You can also integrate electrical outlets into the countertop.
F
fragg
19 Dec 2019 10:26
There is a YouTuber named Wranglerstar. Besides being a cool guy, he also builds his own workbench. Take a look at it. He bolts and glues the boards together, then planes and sands them. Much cheaper than buying one, and practically indestructible. The “table legs” for it are available on Amazon.

Alternatively, you can check out the Bosch (green) 1-2-do forum, where tradespeople showcase their projects. One woman built a workbench using heavy-duty shelving from Toom as a base, topped with a kitchen countertop.

They also introduce this French cleat system there—adjustable wall panels for modular tool mounting. Pretty awesome stuff…

Used kitchens for self-disassembly can often be found on eBay Classifieds for around 100–200€. You just need strong arms and a trailer.
A
angoletti1
19 Dec 2019 13:53
Stier is quite acceptable in quality for hobby use and, with a 15 or sometimes even 20% discount, also good in terms of price.
However, it’s not a top-of-the-line brand, and that should be kept in mind.
I have a few items from them myself, where the highest quality is not crucial, and as I said, with a 20% discount at that price, I can’t complain.

OSB for a workbench is maybe not ideal; it’s better to use a thick hardwood board or plywood, though neither comes cheap.