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I’ve wanted a workbench for a while but setting time aside to build one has been challenging. I’m starting to do more woodworking projects, and using a workbench has become a necessity. My initial plan was to build a 72″ x 36″ workbench, but I quickly dialed back on the size when I saw how big the MDF top was as it was being cut at my local lumber yard.

I ended up building a 68″ x 32″ workbench, although the frame was 66″ x 30″. Having a bigger bench top compared to the frame was intentional because I wanted a 2” edge on two sides of the bench for easy clamping.

Continue below for the cut list and tools I used.

DIY Workbench Supply List

Materials	Tools
10 – 2 x 3 x 8” (Framing lumber)	Power drill (including drill bits)
2 – 4 x 8 sheets of ¾” thick MDF	Kreg Jig K4 Master system
12 – 2.5” flat Philips wood screw	Brad nailer (or a good ole hammer)
28 – 2 ¼ pocket hole screws	Miter saw
2” Pneumatic nails or finishing nails

Cut list

Part	Cuts	Quantity	Description
Top frame	66”	2	2×3 Framing lumber
	27”	3	2×3 Framing lumber
Legs	35 ¼	4	2×3 Framing lumber
Leg support	24”	3	2×3 Framing lumber
	58 ¼	2	2×3 Framing lumber
Workbench top	68” x 32”	1	¾ MDF
Shelf	63 ¼ x 24”	1	¾ MDF

Build a simple DIY Workbench in 6 easy steps!

Step 1: Cut 2 x 3s according to the cut list

Step 2: Use a Kreg Jig system to drill pocket holes into all the 2 x 3 cuts, except the legs

Step 3: Build the top frame of the workbench.

Step 4: Attach the legs using wood screws. It’s helpful to use a clamp to hold corners together and pre-drill for this step.

Step 5: Attach leg supports (also serves at the bottom shelf frame) 

Step 6: Install MDF top and shelf and secure them with brad nails. The shelves were installed at 9″ from the bottom of each leg.

What about casters?

I initially bought a 4” caster to install on the legs of this workbench, but upon further research, I plan to purchase the Rockler casters instead, since they allow for better stability, in addition to added mobility. 

Here is the outcome of the workbench build. What do you think?

• I used 2 ½ pocket holes and 2 ½ pocket hole screws because the joined 2x3s and they were 1.5” thick. Read your Kreg Jig instructions and choose the appropriate settings based on the thickness of your lumber boards
• Have your MDF boards cut at the lumber yard. I had to adjust the width of my MDF top at home using my table saw, and it was a struggle because it is so heavy!
• Feel free to customize your bench!

DIY Workbench Tips and Tricks:

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