Rethink Everything You Know About Workbenches

[@texasoldmantries]

I just finished making my bench today and it's a winner!!! Since I read all the discussion around the cross bracing I decided to plywood the entire back section. It won't move either way now. This is a great design!

[@bowlerhatman01]

Triangles are stronger than squares because the shape means that there is no possibility of pivoting at the corners. The only way for the angle at any corner of a triangle to change is by changing the length of any side. If you're building with rigid materials, that just can't happen without catastrophic failure. With any parallelogram, however, all sides can remain at the same length while also pivoting at each joint. When you whack a triangular brace on, you transform your parallelogram into two triangles.

[@ThomasCustomWoodworks]

Thank you!

[@joejoe-lb6bw]

And if you add more triangles (kind of) you would be using a truss. Good explanation of trusses by Paul Kassabian, "How Trusses Work! (Structures 5-1)".

[@DrJuan-ev8lu]

Even better than a diagonal cross brace is a full panel of thin plywood.

[@sergiomartinsdeoliveira2462]

😊😊😊😊😊😊😊

[@Knate1104]

bowlerhatman01 is spot on. Triangles only have one degree of freedom. That means force is distributed equally to the sides of the triangle and no matter how much more force you apply, the triangle won’t change or deform (unless one of the sides is compromised). The result: extreme stability. It’s amazing to see how triangles are used in everyday construction and the loads they’re capable of bearing.

[@davidaubin3449]

Fantastic work bench, I especially like you showing your mistakes and the fixes for them! Well done.

[@ThomasCustomWoodworks]

Thank you!

[@tomblanar2592]

Very nice concept for a compact work surface. One change I would make if I built one would be to position the hinges so that the table surface when closed does not have a gap. It would only require a modification to the clearance made with the router and the gap would be gone. Nice job!

[@ThomasCustomWoodworks]

Thank you!

[@kevinpunter7960]

I assumed the gap was for clamping :)

[@greenberetwoodworks6458]

You could use that gap purposely when clamping

[@tommanseau6277]

Diagonal bracing breaks up the force into separate components distributing the load. Lets say you're pushing horizontally across the work. WIthout the brace you can rack the bench because the force is still all horizontal. But the diagonal brace allows the force to be broken up and distributed between the horizontal, diagonal, and to a smaller extent, vertical directions. It's the same reason you see most bicycles are essentially 2 triangles or a lot of bridges are a series of triangles attached together.

[@ThomasCustomWoodworks]

Thank you so much for the information! That makes a lot of sense.

[@Henry-n7n8]

really good looking work bench, I really like how you solved each problem, I learned from those problems.

[@bwasman8409]

A workbench with a new slant and purpose...smaller size and fold away! Well done and thank you!

[@llobj001]

A cross brace will resist forces in both the X and Y plane. Really is that simple 👍🔥

[@ThomasCustomWoodworks]

Thanks!

[@Bonjour-World]

The one problem most people fail to address is leveling the workbench (i.e. most garage floors are not flat or level). Putting 3/8 diameter leveling legs in the bottom of the legs is one solution but that requires a one to get down on their knees every time the workbench is re-positioned. There has to be a better solution but I have yet to see it (other than keeping a box of shims to put under the legs).

[@lasersight70]

Those latches are also called "over center" latches, and you can find some with a structural load limit rating if you want to. Nice bench!

[@arainboldt]

@ThomasCustomWoodworks, thanks for the ideas! regarding the improved stability of the diagonal. It's due to the fact that the length of the hypotenuse is unique given the length of the sides and the degree of the opposite angle. Consequently, for any of these three to change, e.g. the degree of the opposite angle, the diagonal member (hypotenuse) must either lengthen or shorten. This can't happen without serious force. Conversely, in the case of a parallelogram or rectangle, the angles of the parallelogram/rectangle can change from near 0 to near 180 degrees while the lengths of the sides remain constant. Gotta love Euclid!

[@ThomasCustomWoodworks]

Thanks so much for watching and for the thoughtful comment! I just got a little smarter.

[@oakfat5178]

That was a joy to watch. Your design is very well thought out.

[@fotoeikenburg]

Now this dubbeling those large clamps to fit the large tabletop board, that is fantastic! I should have known before… so weird I didn’t think of it for my former project, making large 7 feet sliding doors. I managed, however this would have made my day for sure! Thanks man. You’re a craftsman. Like!

[@gguilliams14]

useing a diagonal brace is esetially the same as putting a full covered back panel on a bench/cabinet. By stretching it corner to corner it basically covers the same amount of area than a full back panel.

[@pablor3138]

I have a shop in the city but sometimes i go to my cabin and do some work there, this is perfect.

[@michaelnovak9766]

With your notched out bottom 2 ×4 ...I suggest you screw two slightly larger metal plates to the ends of this removal rail so your foldable ends can't spread apart. Fitting small right angle wooden guusets/right angles.. is also a good way to make your table frame stronger or other projects without having to put in larger diagonal braces. Although the one in your design is at the back so only becomes a pest if you want to add removable shelf's to this design. Nice and compact. I used brass luggage latch hinges once in a over head storage compartment I built in a van . They are easy and work well. Nice compact design. 🙂🙏

[@heut4384]

It's not really for a heavier stuff in this working bench, but it's definitely a good space table for my wife's craft projects. 😊

[@LoriLuker1]

Thank you so much for sharing. Hubby and I have been trying to figure out a plan and here you are. Being AMAZING! Thank you!

[@ThomasCustomWoodworks]

You’re welcome and thank you so much for the kind words!

[@walidbeainy9043]

Can you tell me the thickness and width of the boards you used. thanks in advance@@ThomasCustomWoodworks

[@mikemiceli8574]

I didn't realize that I really need one of these until I saw your video. Thanks for sharing!

[@ThomasCustomWoodworks]

You’re welcome!

[@indigos290]

Horizontal cross members in a frame don't handle the shear forces well. The horizontal member will help the compression based shear forces from collapsing in and also will prevent the tension based shear forces from collapsing out. Triangles are the strongest known shapes.

[@ThomasCustomWoodworks]

Awesome thanks!

[@mheermance]

Came here for this comment. Thanks.

[@xplaur]

Awesome! I\m thinking of a piece of plywood instead of that diagonal.

[@AG-cg7lk]

Very nice design. I love space saving solutions like this.

[@stuartkorte1642]

Very nice. I slight modification would be to make the fixed table top 12” deep and add a thin backstop. Folded up, the bench could be used as a mini bench or a shelf. Either way, nice bench.

[@tonyg8471]

You will find architects use triangles in bridge and building construction. Structural rigidity and strength through geometry. Cool workbench!

[@toolooselowtrek7523]

I really appreciate your attention to safety!

[@ThomasCustomWoodworks]

Thank you!

[@garagengio]

Grüß dich Thomas, I really love the build and I was planning a very similar design to yours in my head for some weeks now. I will definitely build one like these but add a little bit Garagen Gio style. Hope I'll be able to do a video myself and get your opinion on my ideas. You did a great job. I do not only love the build but the calm video editing is quite refreshing and different to the other channels I follow. I'm glad I found you! Viele Grüße from Germany wünscht der Garagen Gio

[@ThomasCustomWoodworks]

Thank you so much for the kind words and feedback. I’m excited to watch your video when it comes out!

[@garagengio]

Hi Thomas, now you have been working with your bench some time. Do you think it will be necessary for stability to do some diagonales at the side pieces an not only in the back piece? I don't want to use the stretcher underneath the bench because i would like to use the space for storage. In the end I think anyway it will be trial and error. But would love to hear your opinion.@@ThomasCustomWoodworks

[@KevinPeffley]

Super. So well thought out and for every issue you had, you were able to find a solution. Very impressive.

[@Raphael-pt7rx]

6:17 cause it ensures the diagonal length. if the diagonal cant change, the whole square cant move/wiggle

[@khayes9702]

That’s an awesome table. I know nothing about woodworking but I am definitely going to try to build this or the other table you build to hang on the wall!

[@ThomasCustomWoodworks]

Awesome! I believe in you.

[@peterdement]

Consider adding a whell near the table top. Then you may tilt the bench vertically and store it vertically taking up less than half of the wall space needed to store it horizontally..

[@ThomasCustomWoodworks]

👍

[@guyh.4553]

Okay you turkey! How dare you make something useful and practical! So mad at you that I just had to subscribe! 😂😂😂 Very much like this. I have always worked out of a small workshop or no shop. Plus I've moved too many times that ive needed practical work spaces that have to be movable. Thank you for this!

[@ThomasCustomWoodworks]

Haha you’re very welcome! You definitely win the award for best comment.

[@humansnotai4912]

Great design, build and presentation. Namaste x

[@dougphillips5686]

You need a way to attach your notched support to the back side of the bench, otherwise that piece of wood will get lost or forgotten. Maybe attach with toggle latch.

[@JPToto]

Nicely done, Thomas! 100% on the parting words, too 👍🏻

[@ThomasCustomWoodworks]

Thank you!

[@robbo9566]

Yep, drop leaf table on wheels! A useful workshop application especially where space is at a premium. Just need an idea for a compact vice now

[@ThomasCustomWoodworks]

Absolutely. Yes I may try to include one on my next workbench.

[@anyname38]

It's only a workbench, but as an apprentice joiner, I was taught to align the wood grain of the dowels with the main piece. Helps them blend in better.

[@skaylingop9673]

Yes, to my understanding, in woodworking, dowels are typically aligned with the grain to ensure strength and stability. Some people may also prefer a more “seamless” look. However, placing dowels perpendicular to the grain can indeed be used as a design feature to create visual contrast or highlight specific elements of a piece. This technique can draw attention to the craftsmanship and add aesthetic value, though it's important to consider the structural implications since cross-graining can potentially weaken the joint due to differing expansion and contraction rates of the wood fibers. If the primary concern is aesthetics and the structural demands are minimal, using dowels perpendicularly can be a creative choice worth considering.

[@williammaxwell1919]

Simple but good solution to limited shop space. Next time, make a template for routering recesses for the hinges and only route to the thickness of the hinge.

[@ThomasCustomWoodworks]

Thanks! I needed to route the height of the hinge joint which was 1/2”.

[@seriously195]

Too funny: when you said "remember when...", you sounded just like Andy Rooney (60 Minutes commentator). Probably well before your time. Nicely done and I will be making one this summer/

[@olieboer]

Hi. Nice build. Is there a specific reason why you didn't recess the hinge pins so that the tabletop in the horizontal position would close the seam between the back side and the table top? Also, if you had placed the diagonal bracing between the back legs in stead of behind them, you would have saved another 2 inches or so of floor space. If you make it nice and tight, the construction itself helps even more with rigidity, although the added benefit would only help against one direction of racking. Making a recess around the back and glueing in a sheet of hardboard or ply would be the best option imho

[@scoop-pm7lk]

geeze ! I just use 2 saw horses and a piece of pywood for my bench ... that ones nice

[@ThomasCustomWoodworks]

Thanks!

[@clarksardido2567]

I've been looking for a folding workbench design for some time, and I think I found it. Thank you for sharing. Your subscriber from the Philippines 👏

[@ThomasCustomWoodworks]

Awesome! I’m glad I could help.

[@yeders]

Looks awesome. Can you update your plans bundle with these plans? Also, I'd buy your plans in an instant if you gave a metric version.

[@ThomasCustomWoodworks]

Yes I am planning on updating my complete shop plans bundle with this plan. Great feedback!

[@martint710]

Great Video... you're the Mr. Rogers of Woodworking...

[@peterdement]

Consider letting in the diagonal brace to further reduce the over all table width..

[@ThomasCustomWoodworks]

Great idea!

[@randytellez2451]

I just might try that build after the holidays. Thank you

[@ThomasCustomWoodworks]

You’re welcome!

[@PotatoSmashes]

diagonal support works better because triangles are the most sturdiest shape known to man. horizontal or vertical beams are taking all the weight directly whereas diagonally, its more evenly distributed.

[@robertharris1748]

Nice folding table, and I love the idea since I definitely have space issues. BUT (sorry!) without any vises, I'd argue it's not really a "workbench". Particularly not without some sort of way to fix boards down (for planing etc.)

[@stuartkorte1642]

Dog holes and clamps? There’s always the clamp on vise. One of my work benches doesn’t have vise, it’s on a heavy pedestal

[@gregmize01]

Well this work bench is certainly KIND of AWESOME! Great job!

[@ThomasCustomWoodworks]

Haha thank you!

[@edwardgrossman295]

A angle 📐 brace over a vertical brace is better because a angle brace counter acts Compression and tension it’s a vector sum of algebraic properties; a vertical brace translates or transfers load down. This is the Basis Engineering 101 definition 👍

[@johnford7847]

Nice build and nice design. I think a lot of people would find this useful. Thank you for sharing.

[@ThomasCustomWoodworks]

Thank you!

[@seant346]

"i didnt feel like it" perfect

[@pathardage1880]

Good idea. I'll have to think about this one for my shop. Thank you.

[@ThomasCustomWoodworks]

You’re welcome!

[@kdawg925]

Nice work! Also if they remake Ferris Bueller’s day off, you should try out for the Economics Teacher spot.

[@remmingtonsteele2562]

That bench is pure awesome Thanks for sharing !

[@ThomasCustomWoodworks]

You’re welcome!

[@ednowliniii]

“I didn’t feel like it”. LOL, love it.

[@ThomasCustomWoodworks]

Thanks!

[@edmc755]

Love your built, but when it is folded , does it not tip over to the front very easy ??? The bench when folded is not very wide , so it could tip forward very easy ?????

[@Bloozestringer]

Looks like it'd make a great table, but probably moves all over if you're trying to clamp something down and use a hand plane or other hand tools that require some leverage.

[@ThomasCustomWoodworks]

It works well. Thanks for watching!

[@MyGrowthRings]

This is great, and oh so close to an idea I’ve been working on. Well done. Scott

[@ThomasCustomWoodworks]

Thank you!

[@michaelhyland9216]

It looks like you could build two and them connect them to make a larger table if you needed more area.

[@ThomasCustomWoodworks]

Great idea!

[@jablot5054]

Good idea with the clamps

[@lunatik9696]

Cool workbench. A horizontal brace still allows the corners to bend/ sway as it only supports in 1 axis. The cross support works better as it prevents the corners from swaying in 2 axis. One could use trigonometry and determine the vector and moment forces. The result is corner pushing forces are balanced by forces pulling from the other corner. I didn't see the background music credited. Is it your original music? I barely heard it, but liked it.

[@ThomasCustomWoodworks]

Thank you!

[@dolphinsleap]

I especially like and appreciate the honesty of your statements. "why did I do this way? because I felt like it!" hehehe

[@ThomasCustomWoodworks]

Haha I’m glad!

[@improveyourwoodwork11]

The best way to join one piece of timber to another, as required for joining the legs to the rails of the frame, is with mortise and tenon joints. End of story!

[@dancoleman8467]

I love this. I want to build one similar. Great idea. Just what I need!!

[@ThomasCustomWoodworks]

Thank you!

[@ReneeNme]

An even sturdier support system than just a single angled brace is an X pattern.

[@sarinhighwind]

Im over here with a 4'x8'. Limited space sucks. Like when your huge workbench turns into a storage shelf.

[@ThomasCustomWoodworks]

Yeah everything with a flat surface is a storage shelf at one time or another.

[@nehennings]

The Step Brothers reference - chef’s kiss

[@ThomasCustomWoodworks]

Thank you!

[@michellebascombe6265]

Hi Thomas, what would happen if I didn't recess the hinges? How would that affect the dimensions of the table folding up?

[@RayCollins-dv4ts]

Inspiring design with a good execution.

[@davivify]

A triangle is one of the most stable structures known to man. So by adding a diagonal you are, in effect, creating a pair of triangles, which will strongly resist racking.

[@carlosmacmartin4205]

"Everybody has the ability to be creative." That's a fact!

[@rodsquad911]

You’re a good man Charlie Brown

[@ThomasCustomWoodworks]

Thank you!

[@bigrobbo75]

awesome effort, Hello from Auckland , New Zealand

[@ThomasCustomWoodworks]

Thank you and hello!

[@SeaFanStudio]

Nice workbench! I agree that this one uses less valuable wall space than the first.

[@ThomasCustomWoodworks]

Thank you!

[@garagengio]

Finally the waiting has come to an end ❤

[@ThomasCustomWoodworks]

Indeed!

[@nutsmcflurry3737]

Was the folding top issue because of routing the hinges in too deep? Normally they are let in to the thickness of the metal.

[@timpenner7858]

the thing about rethinking the workbench, i see a sturdy folding table. you even keep saying tabletop and not benchtop. benches are large wood-holding jigs. you should add a few features for doing it.

[@indianafanatic]

I bought the plans for this bench and had a question: By trimming off the rounded edges of the 2x4 lumber, effectively making them 3" in width, what considerations do I need to make in altering the cut list? Off the top of my head, I can see that the long additional leg pieces will need to be an inch longer (pg 20), but can you think of anything else I need to address? I appreciate your paving the road for us making this workbench and can't wait to see how I do with it. Thank you.

[@ThomasCustomWoodworks]

I cut off 1/8” on each side making each 2x4 piece 3 1/4” wide. I cannot think of anything you will need to address as the plans are catered to 3 1/4” wide boards but I would just use referential measurements when cutting each piece to make sure they fit. Any other questions please email me at [e-mail] as I may miss some comments.

[@pohkeee]

Triangles are the most stable…thus geodesic domes and all manner of trusses…

[@ThomasCustomWoodworks]

Thanks!

[@WoodworkingTop535]

Watching this video, I learn many new things, it's very fun, thanks

[@ClarkeLSmith]

Hi Thomas, thanks for sharing this video and nice work! I have 2 questions: 1) would one be able to double the table's capacity by making the same fold down but on BOTH sides... and use either one or both sides depending on the total table space one needs 2) If you had used SOSS type hinges, would you have been able to eliminate the gap seen between the 2 table surfaces?

[@ThomasCustomWoodworks]

Thank you! 1. Possibly, but it would be too big for my space and it would be roughly double the size folded up making it not quite as space efficient. 2. I have not heard of those until now but I just looked them up and depending on the weight capacity it could be a great way to eliminate the gap. Let me know if you try it!

[@tims.2832]

“I had to do it with the jigsaw on the other side” caught me off guard, very funny 😄

[@pauloconnor2]

Great video thanks for sharing. Is there a way to mount a vice to this bench?

[@qhadj5387]

I didn't understand how the latch got in the way. Then I see you routing on its side which I don't get how it helps. Thanks

[@dkaustin98]

I am disabled vet with deteriorating spinal disease. I built a folding workbench with a lift off top and I built my table saw stand so I could use it as an outfeed table. Unfortunately I have to move the wife's car out of the garage to set up my shop. Yet, I have had another spell with my back from a fall with a shop stool. I find the top is now too heavy for me to lift on my own without back pain. I do believe this build will suit my needs.

[@PaulTiseo]

Try using gas struts for some assitive help.

[@dkaustin98]

@@PaulTiseo I have an unused pair that I can use for this project.

[@ThomasCustomWoodworks]

I’m glad this workbench will help.

[@dkaustin98]

@@ThomasCustomWoodworks The trick will be modifying or converting what I built into this style. It is doable.

[@chanlac2012]

Can I ask where do you get the brackets to attach the wheels to the table legs (minute 7:09)? And what are they called? Thanks

[@ThomasCustomWoodworks]

I got them from Amazon and they are called retractable casters. It all came together (brackets and wheels).

[@williamdoyle649]

This is a great design! Well thought out

[@ThomasCustomWoodworks]

Thank you!

[@jjjrican3544]

Great build keep up the good work 🤘😎

[@bcase5328]

You call it a work bench. I see potential for it as an apartment or tiny house table, (or as a heavier camping table).

[@ThomasCustomWoodworks]

Multiple possibilities. Thanks for pointing that out.

[@Richard-id-000]

good idea .. good job

[@ThomasCustomWoodworks]

Thank you!

[@globyois]

Love it! Great job! Yeah, how can I get the video and plans?

[@ThomasCustomWoodworks]

Thanks! Click the link in the description or go to www.thomascustomwoodworks.com.

[@sc2352]

In answer to your question: Triangulation is that strongest shape as distributes/transfers all applied forces across and to the opposing side of any structure. The means that any applied force actually resists the applied force itself with an equal and opposite resistive force. People often don't realise that a solid end panel is so strong is only because it is actually two triangles stuck together (cut a square panel in half and you have two triangles). There is a reason that the pyramids are giant triangles! No other shape could withstand millions of tonnes of granite without collapsing upon itself or sinking into the sand

[@gm2407]

Where do you keep the stretcher when not in use?

[@b3arwithm3]

That's a very clever design. I would add another toggle latch on the back legs, to lock it when it is in its closed form. I am wondering how it can be modified so that I can roll it around while closed. I have even less space 😢

[@ThomasCustomWoodworks]

Thank you! I’m not sure how to modify this to role around while closed but that doesn’t mean it can’t be done.

[@BigTuna762]

What are those hinges on the wings of your mitre saw station called? Those look like a perfect solution for what Im trying to do!

[@ThomasCustomWoodworks]

They are 16” folding brackets and the brand I used was Yumore from Amazon. They have worked well.

[@BigTuna762]

@@ThomasCustomWoodworks awesome! Thanks so much!

[@myspacenrg]

wondering if you could sub a piano hinge in place of the door hinges to tighten the gap between the dropleaf section. or if it would still persist the issue of the dropleaf not sitting 90 degrees down prior to your notching, after the fact. great job. exactly what im looking to replicate, give or take, the size.

[@ThomasCustomWoodworks]

Thanks! I just would worry that the piano hinge wouldn’t quite be strong enough.

[@myspacenrg]

@@ThomasCustomWoodworks fair point/concern

[@KevinTyson-s9n]

Great workbench thanks!! Will you be making a bundle available for this bench and the 2 for 1 tool cart?

[@ThomasCustomWoodworks]

I definitely can! Send me an email and I’ll work it out for you: [e-mail]

[@yeders]

Curious, why have you opted for a bought aluminium table saw sled vs making your own? Have you done the 5 cut square test to see how accurate and square the aluminium sled is? Really keen to know, as my old sled doesn't fit my new table saw

[@ThomasCustomWoodworks]

I had some scrap plywood so it was cheaper and it’s really accurate as I did the 5 cut method (with instruction from the Wood Whisperer).

[@alexsafonov7270]

nice table. I love it 👍🏽

[@ThomasCustomWoodworks]

Thank you!

[@4b0d3]

I never really understood the point of the fold up work benches. where do you store all your wood? If you make a large bench 8' long, you can store so much wood under it You can build off sections for different types and different sides. Just get wheels rated for 350+ lb each and you're set. you can wheel it around the room. I get that it saves room, but where is your other stuff being stored? and I'd argue that a large strong wheeled bench is a better option that incorporate many other space wasting pieces.

[@richpalmisano1740]

Roll away outfeed is a good appl8cation for those without a lot of space