How to Build an EASY DIY Mobile Workbench with Drawers!

Hey friends, let's build a mobile workbench with drawers and a flip open top!
This video was sponsored by MakeByMe. Check out MakeByMe and get started creating your next DIY project with it here: home.by.me/en/makebyme
I built this workbench to house a new CNC (eventually), but I really didn't want to put it on the top because that's valuable workspace. So I decided to design this bench with a large open shelf for the CNC, but I made the top "flip open-able" so that I can easily access the machine from all sides as needed.
Of course, the flip top may not be a feature you want, so you can certainly skip that extra step at the end and just make your top stationary.
Either way, this is a versatile workbench with 4 good sized drawers and open shelving for wood, tools, equipment, etc.
Check out the plans on MakeByMe here: home.by.me/en/guide/diy-plans...
Check out more project details and additional tips here: www.woodshopdiaries.com/easy-...
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Helpful resources for this project:
Understanding lumber sizing for beginners: www.woodshopdiaries.com/lumbe...
How to cut plywood sheets: www.woodshopdiaries.com/cut-d...
How to use a pocket hole jig: www.woodshopdiaries.com/how-t...
How to build a drawer box: www.woodshopdiaries.com/how-t...
How to install drawer slides and drawer boxes: www.woodshopdiaries.com/how-t...
How to install drawer fronts: www.woodshopdiaries.com/how-t...
Drawer Building Video Series: • Drawer Building Series
Tools & Materials:
*affiliate links below
Tools:
Circular Saw: homedepot.sjv.io/AooaYx
Cutting Guides (Kreg Rip Cut & Kreg Accu-Cut used here): amzn.to/3Y38tDQ & amzn.to/3HB8FEY
Miter Saw: homedepot.sjv.io/b3DkDx
Jig Saw: homedepot.sjv.io/Gjj912
Drill/Driver: homedepot.sjv.io/Aoo6Ya
Pocket Hole Jig: amzn.to/32eoPBY
Materials:
(7) 2x4x8 boards (add 2 more if you want the flip open top)
(2) 4×8 sheets ¾″ plywood: homedepot.sjv.io/9rR95
(1) 4×8 sheet ¼″ plywood
1 ¼″ wood screws
1 ¼″ pocket hole screws: amzn.to/3FKfikk
2 ½″ wood screws
2 ½″ pocket hole screws: amzn.to/2y9rJZZ
(4) pair 16″ ball bearing drawer slides: amzn.to/42tH3tf
(4) caster wheels: amzn.to/3XzV5II
Wood Glue
48″ piano hinge (optional for flip open top): amzn.to/46rG6Ex
(4) 3 ½″ door hinges (optional for flip open top): amzn.to/44mGySG
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction
00:37 Assemble Workbench Legs
01:46 Let's Talk About Design
03:04 Assemble Workbench Frame
04:43 Cut and Install Drawer Framing
06:46 Install Drawer Slides
07:23 Build and Install Drawer Boxes
09:07 Add Drawer Fronts
09:40 Install Bottom Shelf Panel
11:29 Add Top & Flip Supports
12:41 FINAL REVEAL

[@domwrap_]

Just wanted to say while I ignore/skip most ads and endorsements, I'm glad I caught a moment of MakeByMe on this video which was enough to tune me in for the whole segment as it is EXACTLY what I've been needing for planning my work. I don't have the time/patience/motivation to become a 3D modeler / CAD designer, but this tool is basically intuitive enough I designed my kid's bed in about an hour and I'm going to be using it so much from now on, including my new workbench which will incorporate some of your features here. This is fantastic, thanks for sharing.

[@alans1816]

This is my favorite type of project: a piece that perfectly meets your needs while being unobtainable elsewhere. It makes me ask myself what I want.

[@thefunkyt]

Out of all the diy portable/expandable work benches I've watched looking for the right one to build, I just found the best! Thanks!

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Ahh I love that. So glad you enjoyed it and THANK YOU. Happy building! 🙌

[@yahyefarahjama5925]

​@@WoodshopDiaries😊😊😊😅😊😅😅

[@rdb4996]

This one seems doable for a beginner!

[@craiggoodwin9704]

Shara, once again you present us with a video about what appears to be a simple project but is full of useful content and ideas. I've already signed up for MakeByMe and I am looking forward to exploring that program. My temperature gauge I bought for $12 dollars says it's 105 degrees right now in my shop. So your video cheered me up quite a bit, especially the part where Bubby makes an entrance and later when Lucy and Bubby settle in to watch your labors. I think I'll avoid the heat for a while and piddle around with MakeByMe as I'm calmed by the soft purr of our air conditioner. I love that flip top lid. Great idea. Hmmmm..... Thanks for Sharing! 🙃🙂

[@anthonypalazzolo6181]

Nice work 👌 I've been looking for a wile to make a bench for my wife and I really like this design thank you for sharing 🌻

[@BigDave71]

Yay! No Festool bling. 💪🏾. And thanks a million for this tutorial. These look feasible for even the beginning woodworker. 👏🏾

[@tlanfer]

Really nice build. Very simple design, easy to adapt to whatever needs someone might have. I see so many options on how to adapt and build on your ideas. For example, doubling up on the top surface, so that you either have a double sheet workbench, or can fold it out for a double size surface. If you then build the whole thing only have the size (around 1x1m) you can get a large workbench on a very small footprint. You could even have integrate a table saw or router etc it. As long as you remember to lower the blade/bit, you can still fold it shut, but you have a large outfeed. Many many options. Cool!

[@SawdustmakerLori]

Great build and thanks for the info on the design software! I like your tip on placing the casters diagonally to avoid screwing into all end grain. I wouldn't have thought of that. It was nice to see you had so much help from Lucy and Bubby for this build. That Bubby seems to always want to be in the middle of everything you're doing. He is such a wonderful companion to keep you company while working in the shop.

[@andrej.babichev]

а что за программа? чтото я не понял

[@1narangero3]

I really like your channel I’m actually starting my woodworking business and I like how you explain the work process and using simple stuff for a diy person or a person who’s beginning at woodworking your awesome keep up the good work hopefully one day I will be there at your level!!

[@stevedockery3534]

That's a great simple work bench. Always like your ideas, work, and plans. Great job girl. Thanks 😊

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Thank you so much! I appreciate you watching and following along. Have a great weekend! 🙌

[@goddessofthestars]

I came here to say that I finished making this (with a fixed top) last weekend! It went well. I struggled with getting the bottom shelf to fit (even with 1 frame side removed) and due to some slightly warped lumber, my drawer openings werent completely square, but the drawers work great and the whole thing is incredibly sturdy and easy to move around! Cant wait to make my next projects on it! I'll probably make some modifications over time to increase tool/accessory storage, but the drawer space is amazing.

[@stevestormssr5492]

Best simple, versatile and useful design I've seen yet. One small change to consider. When you flip the top overto the extensions you have no support for the center of the top. Run a connecting piece between the arms to support it!

[@merlenepeters7174]

Ms. Ma'am, chef's kiss. ❤simple and functional👏🏽

[@KohlHosein]

The flip-open feature is amazing!

[@Bekim8310]

Beautiful project as always Shara! You are knocking it out of the park with these builds!

[@rdb4996]

The flip top is great! Just what I need in my tiny, tiny outdoor space. I won't be doing drawers on the bottom, but will add a tool space below the top.

[@johnkelley9877]

The bench looks really good and with the four drawers you have a lot of storage. Thanks for sharing this and the MakeByMe program.

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Thank you! I didn’t add drawers into my old workbench and it’s something I feel like I could definitely have used for small parts to keep things better organized. So this time, drawers were a must have! Thanks so much for watching! I hope you have a great weekend!

[@user-xm1cq6es9b]

Thank You for being a real Woodworking Human😘

[@inspiringbuilds]

Mobile with storage is the way to go. The flip top is a nice touch too. Lol I have a half dozen benches and will be doing a mobile one with lots of drawers soon. Can’t beat rolling it out in the driveway and then using a leaf blower for clean up. 👍

[@timothycreasy2161]

Drawers in a work bench is always nice,.. extra storage. Flip top for extra space, and does not take more room when not in use is a great idea. Thanks for sharing Ms. Shara

[@allisonwoods6161]

Great project. Love the simplicity and functionality, great work😊

[@lovejones7545]

Bubby is too cool for school! He's always their to lend a helping paw😂. Really awesome Mobile work bench! Adding those caster wheels was a great idea for sure, and the flip top just doubled your work space area.🤙🏾💯

[@cineaste1969]

Great build. I don’t normally watch this kind of video but since I plan on building a work bench soon I watched this one. I was impressed. I will be referencing this video when I build mine. Thank you for doing this video. Great job! 👍🏼

[@DMAG-3200]

Good morning Shara, very nice design. Can't wait to see what you do with the cnc. Glad to see all the help showed up today 😀. Have a great day!

[@WoodshopDiaries]

The help was helpful this build 🤣 I’m glad they hung out with me while I was working. Thanks so much for watching and I hope you have a great weekend! 🙌

[@stacyjacobs9823]

How am I just now seeing this...wow! so perfect!

[@CombrinkPierre]

That Flip Top is a brilliant idea. I'm definitely building one of these. Thanks for the software tip.

[@obrapro]

Drawers and flip top works for me. Great idea

[@pteddie6965]

Shara, the bench looks great. I like the 'flip top' effect and I was impressed by the casters. Thanks for the video.

[@tree_carcass_mangler]

Interesting approach for a mobil workbench. Thanks for sharing - thumbs up!

[@b3arwithm3]

I like the flip top. I used the collapsible aluminum shelf brackets to increase the work surface, but they are pretty weak. Your mechanism is way better.

[@laurco]

Love how practical, clear, and concise your videos are! Shara, suggest letting the miter saw stop spinning before you lift it from the workpiece. Eliminates the risk of it catching the cutoff and propelling it.

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Thanks so much for watching! I’m glad you enjoy the videos 😊

[@APlantster]

Love the big orange kitty.

[@rgrubicon2314]

Thank you so much for the detailed directions on makebyme super helpful. Never made a workbench before or drawers for that matter. It turned out great and learned so much in the process. Thanks again!

[@mcalicci]

That was awesome. I love your creations!

[@senjos4805]

This workbench looks great Shara. And the middle shelf under construction is a clever idea. First the CNC machine haves a straight and stable surface to sit on. Because if the CNC machine can vibrate, the results show some of this vibrations on the finished product and you have more to sand later. And second the CNC machine is up higher and you can store all the hold downs, cutting bits and other CHN stuf in them. As always, a well planed and built project. Looking forward to the first CNC project. You are great, thank you for sharing this!! 🥰

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Thanks so much! I didn’t want to “waste” valuable working space with a CNC so this allows me to use the top for other things, but still store the CNC out of the way. I can’t wait to get it assembled and learn how to use it. Thanks so much for watching and I hope you have a great weekend!

[@geogonzalez7126]

This was FABULOUS! Thank you!

[@MCsCreations]

Brilliant, Shara! Fantastic work! 😃 Stay safe there with your family! 🖖😊

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Thank you! I appreciate you watching and hope you have a wonderful weekend!

[@WillysPerformanceCycleCtr]

Nice workbench Shara! I like the project software that you introduced with this build. It looks very useful. The folding bench top is a great idea. Bubby sure was interested! Lol…. Lucy, in her refined way, just supervised! Keep on building! Have a great weekend!

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Thank you! I always appreciate you watching and following along! Bubby and Lucy make working in the shop tons more fun. I’m always appreciative of their company haha. I hope you have a wonderful weekend and thanks again for watching!

[@rkerby6375]

Shara, great design and build project! I have a Portable Workbench in my garage shop, but not,any drawers, which I liked in your Workbench. Well done, Shara!

[@jeffhesse8415]

Very handy workbench! I need about 5 of these for my auto repair shop ( my daily grind, woodworking is my hobby😊). Thanks for the info on MakeByMe. That looks like a good "tool" to have. I'll keep that in mind incase you don't already have a plan for something I need to build 😊. As always, have a great weekend!

[@oblomovbruce9979]

Thank you for the simple instructions and the link to the software. Glad you included a representative of the inventors of the internet - can never have too much cat.

[@SarahS1214]

That’s exactly what I need to make! Thank you for the detailed instructions…I really needed them too!

[@justsomedude7800]

Wow! Best workbench idea out there!

[@mellymel1100]

I've never seen this style. Good design!

[@papipropepeji]

Thanks for posting this, its awesome!! Excellent and easy to build design!

[@Lutzboater]

A very cool idea on increasing access to your CNC while still having an upper work surface. Well done !!

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Thank you! I can’t wait to put this project to good use! 🙌 have a great weekend!

[@luckiedesigns]

This is really nice you did a great job explaining the process and the reasons. Great job.

[@jeffb2592]

Wow! Great job!

[@someone.people]

You are my idol.. I always thought I wanted to give up on my interest in the field of furniture making and upholstery. But when I see your KZbin it gives me the motivation to continue my interest. thank you❤

[@JoseHernandez-gl9ef]

Great job, you make it seem easy. Thanks for sharing

[@stephanstocker3717]

Great job, nice shop, simple organized..

[@ekhoromeo]

Freaking outstanding build Shara!... Im surveying build designs for my work bench. I love yours!

[@nancynewlin]

Super and superb idea, and well-created, too. 🎉

[@babytramp1]

I found your blog and KZbin channel yesterday, so I followed you. You have wonderful and useful projects. Go ahead, hardworking girl!

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Thank you so much for following along! I hope you continue to enjoy the projects and workshop shenanigans haha 😊 have a great weekend!

[@rodpotts2666]

great idea and project.

[@ronc127]

Some magnates for those braces for the top would work great for keeping them in place. Great project Thanks for sharing.

[@lorpas6934]

Ottima idea Shara, complimenti! 😃

[@mikec2810]

Really nice design! Came out great!

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Thank you! I’m excited to put it to good use!

[@oldguy1030]

Very nice build. And very practical!

[@aliens1990990]

that was massively impressive !

[@linuxjcajca7806]

Great job, congrats.

[@georgevprochazka5316]

I haven't seen nice 2x4 's like this in a store for ages!

[@billybucaroo]

A very simple but thorough video cabinet build. So many videos leave out the small steps that leave you guessing about the build at some point. Nice touch with your pets... Will be following your channel...

[@brewster3987]

A classic Shara build with plywood, 2x's, and pocket hole joinery? Yes please! This is very practical and the basic idea is adaptable to many potential uses. I love your idea for having the fliptop capability just for good access to the lower shelf, but as you touched on, as long as you have something fairly bulky (like a CNC) on the bottom shelf, you could indeed use the top in the open position (with a little strategic reinforcement) without worrying about tipping. As a fluent speaker of "canine," allow me to translate at 5:15 ... "Mom, when are you gonna air condition this place?"🥵😆

[@WoodshopDiaries]

It’s definitely a classic 🤣 I’m glad you enjoy my “style” of basic build! This could be used in so many ways. I want to build a couple of these to replace my old workbench too 🙈 maybe one day haha. And I believe you are right. Lucy would vote for AC BUT if she knew that would mean the doors have to be closed while we work, I think she might have second thoughts 🤣 she has her own personal fan and gets frequent snack breaks inside 😉

[@joangrant5248]

Hi Shara, I am glad to see you are still thriving. I am finally ready to have a go at making your 2 drawer filing cabinet. I may try to make it 3 drawer. I finally found out how to get the information on your plans. I can now have a go at doing this at a local community workshop where they tools etc. Best regards, Joan (London, England).

[@VictorJTCruz]

Amazing!!

[@victormatamoros8302]

Saludos desde Costa Rica pura vida bendiciones exelente trabajo y las medidas 😊

[@greywolf1]

Great job! Just learned something new.

[@lesliebrooks5684]

Your instructions are clear, your video work is very good and I love the pet cameo's. Thanks for this information - first this table, then onto the walk-in closet. Fingers crossed it looks as good as yours.

[@weldonf4081]

Great job, I am impressed. Your building skills and video presentation skills are very professional.

[@Joshua.zero29]

4:48 😂😂❤ 6:47 I really thought you were going to try bottom mount slides here. But maybe I've just been watching too much Bourbon Moth lately. 😊 12:28 This is so epic! Not too complicated and functionality is top notch! 10/10 Shara, you keep finding ways to out do yourself. 😁

[@ryantownsend2720]

I never check out the sponsors for any video, but Make by Me is actually a really cool product! Super easy to use and perfect for people like me designing pretty basic stuff. Always love your designs!

[@ChrisHornberger]

Checking out those sponsors' links helps keep the makers sponsored; always check them out, even if that means clicking and leaving immediately. It matters.

[@elained9591]

I didn’t know that, thanks! I too like Make by Me! I’m giving it a go. Thanks again!

[@markforrestsm]

I joined and am disappointed.. Took forever to load and very slow response time.. Perhaps because I'm in South Africa and not the States - not sure. I did like the fact that I could change measurements from "inches" to metric - that's a very cool feature. Will try it again and hopefully not experience the "lag" - I do think it would be a cool tool to have in my arsenal.

[@wickedwinnie]

Love it! My garage is a disaster so I definitely need to build this!

[@WoodshopDiaries]

My shop is almost always a disaster. I clean it up and it stays that way for approximately 5 minutes before it’s a wreck again 🤣 it’s a never ending cycle

[@raulnavarrete8776]

very well and useful design exactly what I was looking for

[@kannablade3186]

This is exactly what I was looking for! Tysm!!!

[@beadingdancer]

You are great!Woodwork has always been intimidating for me. This was also fuel by woodwork being for boys when i was growing up. But I need the cute things you make!!!😍😍😍

[@rubinrowles9634]

Wow! Really nice!

[@frankstoverpurebloodsaltya6441]

Nice build shara

[@severus21]

You are simply awesome.

[@mianzel]

Great job! You gave me a good idea with the folding top, since I have small space at my shop, I will add some wings to the side of my workbench to make it bigger when working with 4x8s but only when I need it. Thanks!

[@WoodshopDiaries]

You could totally double up the top. Attach the bottom one and add the top one with the piano hinge to fold the top over to double the size. If I didn’t add this specifically for access to the inside, I would have loved to do the “double size”idea.

[@mianzel]

@@WoodshopDiaries Thanks! Love your work!

[@mr.kongable]

Just found your channel, thanks for sharing this. My students will be building one of these for our shop this fall.

[@STeter76]

Looks amazing

[@pacificprospector]

Nice! I think I may purchase a pocket-hole drill. These are great ideas. Thanks for posting this.

[@rickpouley2857]

Perfect work bench for a CnC machine! You must be going to get a really nice CnC..

[@thelouiebrand]

You are a bad ass. Dreamy to say the least! Keep kicking ass, I am a new fan.

[@kevonmcfarlane3238]

Well done

[@user-cj9mu5vw5j]

Thank you👍

[@zocalo1990]

Nice work!!

[@myronbedner989]

Great Job on the work bench 👏 👍

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Thanks so much! Have a great weekend!

[@teresaholland4790]

Super cool idea 👍

[@chuckm.5032]

Great Job!

[@ShopTherapy623]

the flip top is bad ass! Nice work

[@lenabrusilovski3297]

THANK YOU for the makebyme reference

[@CrazyCat229]

Watching this was worth it for the kittah! Kittahs rule!

[@markgreer6585]

Shara. Both your designs and presentations are fantastic! Suggestion / request... I'm hoping for your take on basic, "farm style" DINING ARM CHAIRS. 🙏 Thanks so much!

[@whydotheathensrage]

nice work !

[@jimmytinkers]

Love this!

[@saenzX001]

Cat in the zone of work... TIPICAL hehehe. Greeting from Mexico, nice work

[@charliehenderson38]

Great build….👍

[@jimrosson6702]

Great video