I Built The Ultimate FIRST Workbench.

If you might benefit from therapy, be sure to check out BetterHelp.com...
Thanks to BetterHelp for sponsoring this video.
PLANS / MERCH / & MORE
www.frankswork...
**Links to Tools I Like**
Drill/driver - amzn.to/3sm5lJ9
Vise - amzn.to/463K70o
GRK structural screws - amzn.to/3SulIy8
Heavy duty double sided tape - amzn.to/47dKZRq
Crubber - amzn.to/4719KQW
Dark Tung oil - amzn.to/3SvFjOn
-- Marking and Measuring --
Pencils - amzn.to/3s593q6
Marking Knife - amzn.to/3sOl3Im
Benchtop Tape Measure - amzn.to/3Ytq6ya
Marking Gauge - amzn.to/3QyDgZ4
Combination Square - amzn.to/3iL4bxO
Machinist Square - amzn.to/3ONhu2a
-- Saws --
Crosscut Saw - amzn.to/43XygA4
Rip Saw - amzn.to/4426ClE
Backsaw - amzn.to/3655jqX
- amzn.to/3DPqA8l
-- Bench Planes --
WoodRiver Jack Plane (#5) - amzn.to/3PO9GeC
WoodRiver #6 - amzn.to/3Ytr65o
Block Plane - amzn.to/3oMLayx
Scrub Plane - ebay.us/62pAb9
-- Joinery Planes --
Router Plane - ebay.us/5GAmLm
Rabbet Plane - ebay.us/231UIU
Plow Plane - ebay.us/ZuNJZW
-- Chisels --
Bench Chisels - amzn.to/3YqbnEl
Mortise Chisel - amzn.to/3KBC8zM
-- Sharpening Stones and Equip --
Combination India Oil Stone - amzn.to/397qXfW
Arkansas Stone (black) - amzn.to/47tWLIf
Arkansas Stone (translucent) - amzn.to/43XYZwx
Strop - amzn.to/3YwrWyA
Diamond Stone Set - amzn.to/3sbPSLd
-- Striking Tools --
Woodworking Mallet - amzn.to/2Y2MFeV
Ball-Peen Hammer - amzn.to/3DRb4ck
Framing Hammer - amzn.to/44XeSEC
-- Shaping Tools --
Coping Saw - amzn.to/3pECvOh
Bow Saw - toolsforworkin...
Spokeshave - ebay.us/iW0Kre
-- Other Stuff I Like --
This Pencil Sharpener - amzn.to/3pB0cY1
Liquid Hide Glue - amzn.to/3a8tzut
Tried and True Varnish Oil - amzn.to/3TDkOMC
Square Awl - amzn.to/47nW431
Dividers - amzn.to/3KBEwXs
Cordless Drill and Driver - amzn.to/3KvLc9x
Brad Nailer - amzn.to/3KvLeOH
I earn a commission on qualifying purchases through any affiliate links. This comes at no cost to the consumer.

[@FranksWorkbench]

If you might benefit from therapy, be sure to check out BetterHelp.com/franksworkbench

[@neilsellars4648]

Finally someone who is building a “first/beginner” workbench without $1500+ in tools

[@tylerthegrimm]

Rex Krueger, wood working for humans series. Began over five years ago and teaches you exactly what you're talking about in your comment. A series meant for the true poors and absolute beginners.

[@michaellockyer4557]

@@tylerthegrimmas well as he makes it clear when something is frustratingly tedious and time consuming if you’re only doing things with only hand tools and when to just use the power tool if you have the option already (especially fairly cheap or common ones like a cordless drill or circular saw)

[@tylerthegrimm]

@@michaellockyer4557 yep. He's a good man

[@jbtallullah7009]

Love your approach. I think it will encourage budding woodworkers to not be over anxious about unimportant details on the first bench or projects.

[@williammaxwell1919]

When your starting, "Nobody" has told you that "you can't do that because...". So you're like, "Hell yeah! I can do that! No Problemo!". "Nobody" should STFU ~ if we haven't been told "you can't do that", the odds are, we "can do that". Science is littered with many "doing the undoable". Hmm, there must be a theorem on this.

[@TradingFeline]

One of the few vids where someone uses hand tools instead of an electric planer or jointer. Very refreshing.

[@FranksWorkbench]

Thanks man appreciate that

[@Cranky_Crone]

More refreshing for us than him! 😂

[@robertberger8642]

I like your simple design. Please eventually make a follow-up video with your thoughts on what was good and what you’d like improved.

[@FranksWorkbench]

You got it!

[@Ramplcro]

Cool. I used a cork for inside jaws, glued it with little bit of superglue. Cheap and it grips really good.

[@AsifMirzaSmiley]

Great video all round, loved the simple but effective bit where you only flattened the underside where the bearer boards were going. Genius!

[@FranksWorkbench]

:)

[@todd4654]

Awesome bench. Been contemplating a similar design and really appreciate the demo on how you did it. Mistakes and all. I’m new to wood working and really appreciate that you include the oops moments! need to get mine to be able to fold up the legs as I have limited space and winters here in canada require the car inside unless you enjoy sitting on frozen solid seats in the morning 🙂would love to see an example of how you would do that. Been a follower for some time now and really enjoy your content and style. Thanks for all you do and enjoy your warm weather!

[@Prowler9000]

I've seen a folding workbench which stores flat against the wall when folded. I think the plan was in an easy shop, but saw the original picture on pinterest? Iirc it may have even had casters on the wheels, but I can't remember whether that's the same table for certain.

[@gateCodeKC]

Awesome video! I love the fact that you used basic handtools and also didn't need a work bench to make a work bench unlike most youtube videos 😂

[@btimms4585]

I watched because of your clear and concise explanation of beginner techniques, and stayed due to your knowledge. I subscribed because of your support for mental health! Peace and love

[@briangilcrease7179]

This was great, I've been trying to research my first bench for a small space, have only a few tools and experience and so most videos put there have been overwhelming. Thanks for keeping it real

[@grkuntzmd]

Nice job on the bench. I did not know about the structural construction screws. I'm definitely going to try those for my next project. I have one of those front 10" vises (Eclipse, I think) and I love it.

[@FranksWorkbench]

Yes sir they are pretty solid!

[@johnford7847]

I think you're right about this bench being accessible even to beginners. And it looks quite sturdy. Paul Sellers has a good example of making a laminated benchtop from 2x's although his approach does use a handplane to joint the boards roughly. That might be a bit more than an inexperienced builder would want to try. Good video. Thank you for sharing.

[@FranksWorkbench]

Absolutely

[@petrsidlo7614]

this is pretty much how I built my first bench, but when gluing the top I glued 4 boards at a time and then glued the three existing panels, much less stressful. The second bench I made was actually largely influenced by the video you made around year or two ago, and I'm quite happy with that one. Keep the content coming.

[@FranksWorkbench]

Thanks man!

[@d3snuts]

Year ore to ago? What hi posted this video yesterday? 😂

[@petrsidlo7614]

The complicated bench he mentions in the first few seconds. He made that one some years back and then moved and built this one.@@d3snuts

[@akaimon3]

Type of videos love to see ….a back to the basics in lieu of of a garage filled to the brim with every imaginable Festiol tool, dust system that requires a 2nd mortgage. Something about the mind body connection of hand powered tools, the only sound is the hand tool on the wood…🙂

[@FranksWorkbench]

Thanks man!

[@michaelholmstrom7677]

This is perfect for me, I am a woodturner who needs a basic bench for prep/finishing. Sadly I will be using power tools to cut the material. Only addition I would make is putting casters on it. Thank you for posting this.

[@FranksWorkbench]

Great! Nothin wrong with some power tools my dude!

[@hellomate639]

Heh! I did glue "mortise and tenon" framing on my first bench! I think I'm going to upgrade mine. I need to flatten my top, put on a tail vise. It's been sitting a while now so the wood has warped to its permanent position, though it didn't really warp much. Maybe I'll add a nicer hardwood to make the top, because right now it's just 2 inch thick 2x12 fir, English bench style. Then I can take out the screws since it's all glued together, add a finish, drill my final dog holes. That would add some nice mass and flatness. I could add a trough as well. Yeah I'm gonna upgrade, this'll be fun.

[@FranksWorkbench]

Always fun to work on a bench!

[@SomeJustice19k]

I've been watching workbench videos on KZbin for weeks now and was feeling overwhelmed by it. This video totally alleviated that and I thank you for that. Relatively easy to build, constrcution lumber, no need for power tools besides a drill and it looks nice and functional. I can't wait for tomorow so I can get started on this project.

[@jimmylovesbikes]

Every second of this video was awesome, to me anyways, because my workbench 15years ago was surprisingly similar to yours! Except you're smarter LOL and I've learned some tricks that really would have helped. Inspired to do it again with better experience and knowledge!

[@FranksWorkbench]

A bench is always a fun build!

[@csehszlovakze]

Thank you for this! I'm on limited funds just before going into carpentry (training and all), so this vid is really helpful.

[@FranksWorkbench]

Awesome good luck!

[@SA-bx9cp]

Yep the best video I have seen so far (and seen a fair few on this topic), thanks from the UK

[@aga5979]

the narration and the methodology are superb in a most efficient and elegant way.

[@cpzmelbs]

Im glad i stumbled on this video. Searching for similarly made bench videos usually yields the opposite result. Where theres at least some tool, product, or joinery method that isnt friendly to a new person wanting to make a half decent first bench thats strong and stable

[@FranksWorkbench]

Glad it was helpful!

[@skippylippy547]

Loved this video! Thank you Frank. Lots of great ideas.

[@FranksWorkbench]

Thank you!

[@davidonwp]

It's a joy to watch your videos and thoughts. Amazing work!

[@FranksWorkbench]

Thank you very much!

[@cerberus2881]

I have that same scrub plane and it may be my favorite plane!

[@pathardage1880]

I just kinda keep coming back to this one. Thanks. Hope to need to build one in the next month or so.

[@FranksWorkbench]

Awesome glad to hear it

[@aaronwarner2762]

Sweet job man! Totally functional! bet you built the whole thing for less than one of those fancy wooden double screw end vises! Steel toed sandals... gotta get me some of that! Peace.

[@MCsCreations]

Really beautiful work, Frank! Fantastic looking workbench!!! 😃 Stay safe there with your family! 🖖😊

[@FranksWorkbench]

Thanks, you too!

[@Justin-tw6lx]

Been looking for a work bench to make and this one is by far the most beginner friendly. Looking forward to following along again as I build my first one!

[@louisd95714]

This is definitely the best and most refreshing videos I've seen made for beginners. Thank you for such a well made video!

[@awantamta]

Brilliant simple design

[@FranksWorkbench]

Thanks a lot!

[@hairpuppet]

Great honest instructions on simple, but effective workbench. Thanks for making quality content!

[@yosemitebandit]

I would love to see how you maintain your planes and other tools, great videos!

[@FranksWorkbench]

Thanks!

[@a9ball1]

Just found your channel and I really like the way you narrated this. Definitely a big thumbs up 👍. BTW, using a handsaw my straight cuts would give you a heart attack from laughing. I swear I can cut a straight line that turns out to be a S curve.

[@onedudeonehammer]

Great work, thanks for sharing!

[@williammaxwell1919]

You can get steelcap flip-flops/ jandals /sandles. You can also get fur-lined Crocs. Fur-lined Crocs with steel caps? Apparently not. 😢

[@FranksWorkbench]

😆

[@AlanTorres-gp9gi]

I'm in the process of gluing up the bench top. So far I have only done one section that is four boards wide. Should I repeat this until I have four 4-board wide sections and then glue the four sections together? Or should I add more boards to to my initial 4-board wide section? I'm thinking the latter as I think I'll be better able to squeeze individual boards together with fewer gaps.

[@VertexCarver]

Really helpful. I'll steal that cross-brace design! ^^ I do have a question though. Why do people either have their vise offset like yours or flush to the bench face?

[@FranksWorkbench]

Personal preference my other vise on the other bench is flush to the face but really it isn't because the crubber or leather on the bench face offsets it anyways

[@matthew4878]

Nice. I also only flattened where the bearers go on the underside of my Paul Sellers style workbench. I haven't seen anyone else mention doing that. But it's much easier.

[@FranksWorkbench]

Right on

[@matthew4878]

@@FranksWorkbench didn't realize I had so many typos. That's what I get for trying to leave a comment first thing in the morning. Fixed now.

[@matthewmarting3623]

You can tell a lot about a person by how they build a workbench (without already having a workbench). I remember how I struggled when I made my first.

[@jgo5707]

But what a blast it was to build the first bench without a bench. I didn't have saw horses, but I had two 1.5ft tall wooden boxes that were makeshift, awful sawhorse stand-ins

[@jons2447]

Hello, Mr. Frank; Thank you for this as I'm about to build a workbench. I think your sawhorse brace is a great idea, it has a lot of applications. How long is this bench? (Didn't see dimensions, sorry if I missed it.) I checked your site & recommendations but I didn't see the tung oil. What do you recommend? I have a few tools but I'll have to get a couple of saws. I want an extra iron for my plane, a camber & smoothing iron makes 1 plane into 2. I really appreciate hand tool woodworking & you seem to be pretty good. Are you going to offer discounts for the season? Have a GREAT day, Neighbor! PS How many structural screws did you use? Those look like really good screws.

[@FranksWorkbench]

Thanks man it's 6ft. I'd suggest longer if you have the space. The tung oil is realmilk paint brand, there is a link in the description if you feel like hooking me up with an affiliate commission 😉. Depends on the screw length, the longest ones 4" used 24, shorter ones into the top used 12, the ones into the face vise were more narrow and only used 2

[@mak4374]

Nice! I wonder if it would be just as strong if I used 2x6's for the legs, then after putting the cross beams on top and bottom, use other 2x6 to sandwich them. It will be easier to cut 2x6 instead of 4x4 on a miter saw, I just wonder if It will be just as strong.

[@FranksWorkbench]

Probably even better that 4x4, that plan should work great

[@WalterMelons]

Great idea just flattening the bottom where the base attaches.

[@FranksWorkbench]

Yes sir, especially with 2x4

[@AereForst]

What a workout! Good work

[@jcoul1sc]

Vice will be ductile iron, invented by Record in Sheffield, UK , interestingly its a very similar design & color to the old Records, now Irwin Record. Happy to be corrected

[@FranksWorkbench]

Thanks for the info!

[@TUZO383]

So good as usual Frank

[@jayfreeman6900]

Where can we find the plans to the bench? For build list & such.

[@johnbarryheath8962]

Most beginner videos require the watcher to have $50,000 worth of equipment in order to do a weekend bench project. Thanks for this de-stressing tutorial using some basic hand tools and non-squared wood to help true beginners to begin without fear. That's where most DIY people need to start: Easy to assemble trestle table and basic hand tools to learn some skills, then do a weekend bench project to learn further skills, then upgrade tools learn some further skills, and then maybe 6 moths to a year into doing some DIY, to then build a beloved shop-bench. It's a journey that no one starts with perfect skill or tools. Thanks again.

[@richardjabaley]

Hey Frank, I love your approach, simplicity and design. Do your plans contain the corrected revisions things you said you'd do differently. Such as gluing up the laminate top in sections, then joining rather than one slab?

[@sams5963]

Are their plans or a video for your saw horses?

[@bigjoe8922]

Thanks Frank great job and thanks for making a video for wood workers not for tool collectors

[@ponyboyc]

I'm in the process of building a new workbench and the base is definitely where I'm struggling strength is a must because I have to move it every time I use it

[@ecko1882]

Don't stop and might I be so bold as to request a speed up of your videos drops, I need more. Love your content, you'll be rubbing shoulders with stumpy nubs and wood whisperer in no time. 🤜

[@giuseppeschetter6955]

What kind of wood are you using? It looks amazing man

[@Soldierofchrist84]

You could also have used a ratchet and strap method also, like the lasso.

[@enochpage1333]

How stable is this bench? Seems like it would rack. Does it?

[@peterbarlow8912]

When they cut a 4x4 out of one quadrant of a log it shrinks to a diamond shape. That’s why traditional post and beam Timbers are cut from the center. As they shrink the sides become convex but they stay fairly square.

[@Soldierofchrist84]

They were thinking ahead for a garden project. Sweeping up the chips in a bin to save for the garden later, smart kids.

[@rickhayhoe]

Hah! Frank, you gotta be past seventy to say 8:00 PM is midnight.

[@TreesAreNeat567]

Great design. I plan to buy the plan and build it when I move soon. You are a braver man than I wearing Birks in the shop or at least have better health insurance.

[@philiprogers8620]

Thanks for the videos Frank, I’m enjoying the content. I’m in a very similar stage of life and situation, so the tips (and jokes) are very relevant. One of the biggest obstacles to my woodworking lately is the lack of desire to work after 9pm. Ha! Any idea how the Yost and Eclipse vices compare? Seem similar, not sure which one to buy…

[@FranksWorkbench]

I hear you man! I'm not sure between the two, as long as it squeezes tight, no problems!!

[@pathardage1880]

Nice build. Thanks.

[@Prowler9000]

Is "crubber" a rubber-like material made from cork?

[@taylorboyd3308]

I’m curious. Why are you downsizing your work space, and tool collection?

[@JayceBroda]

Thanks, but someone please explain how not putting the square side out of the leg would twist the frame? How does that work?

[@jjcale2288]

Just beautiful!

[@onedudeonehammer]

Great job Frank!!

[@2neonKiks]

Do you dilute your tung oil with solvent? How many coats?

[@FranksWorkbench]

I don't dilute it, did one heavy coat and let it soak in.

[@DraganIlich-r1s]

Thank you Sir.🎉

[@morrisonsusan]

Frank, at 2:37 in the background, you have a light-color wooden plane with a dark bottom. It looks new; can you tell me about it? Was it built by you or another woodworker? I need a wooden jointer (I'm a 73 yo woman and can not handle a #7 or #8 metal hand plane). Thanks.

[@FranksWorkbench]

Hi Susan, that is a rabbet plane made by ECE.. they make longer jointer planes too. I haven't used one, but based on the tools I have used from then I'm sure it's extremely high quality.

[@doomedwit1010]

Loved the vid.

[@wallycheladyn1190]

Instead of rope, ratchet straps are pretty useful.

[@ashleyhall5686]

Sweet vid! Whatcha got against government work 🤣🤣 PS I like your Texan rope lasso

[@FranksWorkbench]

Meant it as a high compliment ;)

[@Soldierofchrist84]

Why did you choose to use a hand saw vs skill saw?

[@jimrosson6702]

Great job

[@GeeDeeBird]

Maybe you should add a saw set and triangle file to your minimal tool set!

[@FranksWorkbench]

Yep that's gonna be needed too!

[@hockeyman26789]

I put about 3/4th amount of glue and spread even with less boards across for longer time and they still WOULDN'T stick... (5 clamps + title bond3 ultimate wood glue)

[@FranksWorkbench]

The glue went bad?

[@thomaswearne1023]

Hey Frank! What cross cut saw do you recommend?

[@FranksWorkbench]

My preference is ~10 points per inch and 20-24" long for good general purpose crosscut saw. There's one linked in the description if you want to buy new or any vintage saw should do too

[@LordPadriac]

I wish I could but I cannot continue watching the video of someone purporting to teach good and safe workshop habits to beginners who wears sandals in the workshop like it's safe or appropriate.

[@chickenman7252]

What happened to your old one? It looked beast

[@carlogle6207]

Nice, Franky!!

[@FranksWorkbench]

Thanks buddy!

[@WoodworkAppalachia]

I thought you wern't supposed to put a finish on workbenches because it can skuff the work, is this different because it's an oil?

[@FranksWorkbench]

Oil finish works great but I probably wouldn't use a slick, film type finish like polyurethane, lacquer, or shellac

[@WoodworkAppalachia]

ok, thanks!👍 @@FranksWorkbench

[@haithamalhajqasem8347]

Very beautiful You are a smart man I wish you all the love and success Bro ❤🇵🇸🇵🇸🇵🇸🇵🇸

[@FranksWorkbench]

Thank you!

[@damienmorales6577]

About how much would this cost in lumber ?

[@AlanTorres-gp9gi]

I just bought the lumber in california at a Home Depot. Total with screws was $150

[@dpmeyer4867]

nice work

[@spambox1894]

Very nice.

[@DetroitSicilian]

Appreciate the video.

[@danny302]

You need to do a video just on how you did that rope trick!!!! Please!!!! lol

[@FranksWorkbench]

Haha 😆

[@marcbarash6045]

Thanks Frank

[@FranksWorkbench]

You bet!

[@DerberAlter]

awesome video!

[@FranksWorkbench]

Thanks man

[@dan__________________]

I think the truck is to not use 2x4s. Use 2x10's or 2x12's so that you can cut out the pith.

[@giorgiochiappini1931]

You definetly should exlplain the rope trick in another video, maybe a short, simply what knot is that and how it works.

[@cameronleonard2451]

I could be wrong, but it seems to be a truckers hitch, with a slip knot as the "lock knot." It's super simple to tie and really strong. You can just look up the trucker's hitch if you want details for its use. I'll describe tying it. Tie an ordinary noose near your anchor point. Pass the loose end of the rope, which should be the majority of the rope's length, around or through your object. Finally, tie a knot - typically an overhand - to finish off the truckers' hitch. As I said- he finished his with a slip knot to make it easier to undo. Get a rope in front of you and follow those instructions, and you'll remember it for years - it's extremely intuitive after tying one or two.

[@peanutbutter2456]

btw, better help is known for selling out people to the state.

[@CaseyTheDuderino]

His little "while wood working i thought about mental health. You should try betterhelp" 2 minutes in was a little rough. We get it, you have sponsors! But you don't have to pretend it's something it isn't.

[@garynelles]

How is this bench “fast” to build? By my calculations it took 74 days for you to build it (your last video was August 28). 😂😂😂. Just kidding bud! Good video. I enjoyed watching as always. Thanks for the video!

[@FranksWorkbench]

Good night hard to believe it was that long ago!

[@jacklife7165]

Why didnt you flush the face of the inside jaw of the vice with the face of the bench?

[@FranksWorkbench]

Could have, but didn't think it would add much for the effort

[@mnight207]

I'm 38....I'm in bed but 1030 latest. Up at 4am

[@MrTHEBRITINWA]

Open toe work shoes !!!!!!

[@HerveMendell]

There are now these called circular saws. They are really fast and efficient. Just in case you didn't know.

[@johnbarryheath8962]

Most people just starting off with DIY most probably don't have circular saws that's why he didn't show his one off?

[@jcoul1sc]

Think PDF is the best workbench top as its flat

[@FranksWorkbench]

Seriously considering doing a few sheets of ply or mdf for the top to make it even more approachable, I just hate the stuff...

[@jcoul1sc]

@@FranksWorkbench @10minuteworkshop on here has black MDF and swears by the moisture resistant stuff

[@jcoul1sc]

Also cheapest