Advice

What kind of plywood should I use for a workbench top?

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What kind of plywood should I use for a workbench top?

For most workbenches, the best plywood products to use are sanded softwood plywood, marine grade plywood, Appleply, Baltic Birch, MDF, or phenolic board. If you’re looking to build your workbench the most budget friendly possible, stick with softwood plywood, with either MDF or tempered hardboard for the top layer.

What makes a good workbench?

Look for appropriate, heavy duty, wedged or drawbored, through mortise and tenons. Where possible, joints ought to be draw bolted to pull them up should there be a possibility of them working loose. The timber used for a bench isn’t critical as long as it’s stiff and strong.

What should I make my workbench top out of?

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Almost any lumber or sheet good can be used to top a workbench. The main factors in choosing a bench top material are the function of the bench and the desired effect.

What do I need to build a workbench?

Materials

  1. 2-in x 8-in Lumber (Actual: 1-1/2-in x 7-1/4-in)
  2. 2-in x 4-in Lumber (Actual: 1-1/2-in x 3-1/2-in)
  3. 1 Sheet 1/2-in x 8-ft Plywood (Actual: 7/16-in x 48-in)
  4. 16 – 3/8-in x 4-in Carriage Bolts.
  5. 3-in Wood Screws.
  6. Wood Glue.

What is the best depth for a workbench?

The depth of your workbench should ideally be 24 inches. You can increase a couple of inches depending on whether or not your work involves larger than usual workpieces. Keep in mind that your arm needs to be able to cross the entire table width.

What is Roubo workbench?

The Split-Top Roubo Workbench is a modern twist on the classic Roubo design, inspired by Plate 11 of Andre Roubo’s L’Art du Menuisier. Whether you’re into hand tools, power tools, or both, this bench will serve all of your work-holding needs. This project is for the workbench only and does not include the cabinet.

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What should I put on my workbench top?

Most curing wipe-on oil finishes are appropriate for a workbench. Many are linseed oil or tung oil based. You could also use boiled linseed oil. Wipe on oils will give some protection without having a “film” appearance to make the surface slick (like a brushed applied varnish /polyurethane would).