69+ Workbench With Built-In Lockable Drawers

woodgears.ca

Introduction: Your Dream Workbench Awaits! Ready to elevate your workshop with a sturdy, spacious, and secure workbench? This guide will walk you through building a 69+ inch workbench featuring lockable drawers. It's a project that requires some woodworking skill and patience, but the result is a professional-grade workspace you'll use for years to come. Let's get started!

Materials and Tools: Gathering Your Arsenal Before you begin, ensure you have all the necessary materials and tools. This will streamline the building process and minimize interruptions. Here's a comprehensive list:

• Wood:
• (1) 4x8 sheet of ¾" plywood (for the top, shelves, and drawer boxes)
• (1) 4x8 sheet of ½" plywood (for drawer bottoms)
• (8) 2x4 studs (for the frame and legs)
• (Various) lengths of 1x2 lumber (for drawer face framing and edge banding, optional)
• Hardware:
• Wood screws (1 ¼", 2 ½", 3")
• Wood glue
• Drawer slides (full extension, rated for appropriate weight)
• Locking drawer slides (for security)
• Drawer pulls
• Locking mechanism (for lockable drawers)
• Sandpaper (various grits: 80, 120, 220)
• Wood finish (polyurethane, varnish, or your preferred sealant)
• Tools:
• Circular saw or table saw
• Miter saw (optional, but recommended)
• Drill/driver
• Pocket hole jig (Kreg Jig recommended)
• Sander
• Clamps
• Measuring tape
• Pencil
• Safety glasses
• Hearing protection

Step 1: Building the Frame The frame provides the structural foundation for your workbench. Accuracy is crucial here to ensure stability.

• Cut four 2x4s to the desired height of your workbench (typically 34-36 inches). These will be your legs.
• Cut two 2x4s to 69+ inches (or your desired length). These will be the front and back rails.
• Cut two 2x4s to the desired depth of your workbench minus 3 inches (to account for the 2x4 thickness on each side). These will be the side rails.
• Assemble the frame using wood screws and glue. Use pocket holes for added strength. Ensure the frame is square.
• Add additional 2x4 supports between the legs for added stability, especially at the bottom.

Step 2: Creating the Workbench Top The top provides the working surface and should be durable and flat.

• Cut the ¾" plywood to the desired length and depth of your workbench. Consider a slight overhang beyond the frame.
• (Optional) Glue and screw a second layer of ¾" plywood to the bottom of the top for increased thickness and rigidity.
• Attach the workbench top to the frame using wood screws from underneath. Ensure the top is securely fastened.
• (Optional) Edge band the top with 1x2 lumber for a more finished look and to protect the edges. Glue and nail the edge banding in place.

Step 3: Constructing the Drawer Boxes Precise measurements are essential for smooth-gliding drawers.

• Determine the number and size of your drawers. Plan their layout carefully to maximize storage and ensure they fit within the frame.
• Cut the ¾" plywood for the drawer sides, fronts, and backs according to your planned dimensions.
• Cut the ½" plywood for the drawer bottoms.
• Assemble the drawer boxes using wood glue and screws or a nail gun. Ensure they are square.
• Attach the drawer bottoms using glue and screws or nails.

Step 4: Installing the Drawer Slides Properly aligned drawer slides are crucial for smooth drawer operation.

• Install the drawer slides onto the inside of the workbench frame, ensuring they are level and properly spaced. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for your specific drawer slides.
• Install the mating drawer slides onto the drawer boxes.
• Carefully slide the drawer boxes into the frame to test the fit and operation of the drawer slides. Make any necessary adjustments.

Step 5: Creating the Drawer Faces The drawer faces add the finishing touch and aesthetic appeal.

• Cut the drawer faces from ¾" plywood, ensuring they slightly overlap the drawer boxes.
• (Optional) Frame the drawer faces with 1x2 lumber for a more decorative look.
• Attach the drawer faces to the drawer boxes using screws from the inside. Ensure they are aligned properly.
• Install the drawer pulls onto the drawer faces.

Step 6: Implementing the Locking Mechanism This is where you secure your valuable tools and equipment.

• Install the locking drawer slides onto the drawers that you want to be lockable. Be sure that the key that unlocks these drawer slides are in a safe spot, incase of lost keys.
• Install your chosen locking mechanism. This will vary depending on the type of lock you choose. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. Common options include keyed locks or combination locks.
• Test the locking mechanism to ensure it functions properly.

Step 7: Finishing Touches and Final Assembly The final steps involve sanding, finishing, and adding any additional features.

• Sand the entire workbench thoroughly, starting with 80-grit sandpaper and progressing to finer grits (120, 220).
• Apply your chosen wood finish (polyurethane, varnish, or other sealant) according to the manufacturer's instructions. Apply multiple coats for durability.
• Add any additional features you desire, such as shelves, pegboards, or electrical outlets.

Conclusion: Enjoy Your New Workbench! Congratulations! You've successfully built a sturdy, spacious, and secure workbench with lockable drawers. This workbench will provide you with a dedicated workspace for your projects for years to come. Take pride in your creation and enjoy the benefits of a well-organized and secure workshop.

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