The $100 Workbench

[barnhart]

I am a professional woodworker so my needs are different but I would prioritize a solid wood top such as the link directly above illustrates and enough rigidity built in to the joints so it can be used as a stand alone bench allowing you to work around it if need be. If mortise and tennon is out of reach, consider half lap joinery, it will pay back many times over in rigidity.

[Robert]

I do have a circular saw, but no sawhorses, which makes cutting a challenge. So I guess I need a build a couple of them too.

Harbor Frieght has folding sawhorses for $10-$13 each. They work well. I use some often. Can't build some cheaper unless you have scrap wood.

[JohnH]

I do have a circular saw, but no sawhorses, which makes cutting a challenge. So I guess I need a build a couple of them too.

Harbor Frieght has folding sawhorses for $10-$13 each. They work well. I use some often. Can't build some cheaper unless you have scrap wood.

Not a bad idea - just put down 5 or 6 2x4s on them. As a bonus, if you need an extra 2x4, you can just grab one.

[seinetsodumm]

Construction lumber makes a fine bench. Look up Rex Krueger's YT channel for plans and ideas.

I agree, I made my own bench from fir 2x4s close to 15 years ago. It is still rock solid. I followed Paul Sellers. His original video series was filmed in his backyard working off of sawhorses to make his bench. I think this series is an updated version and made in a workshop, but still with the beginner in mind.

I am a professional woodworker so my needs are different but I would prioritize a solid wood top such as the link directly above illustrates and enough rigidity built in to the joints so it can be used as a stand alone bench allowing you to work around it if need be. If mortise and tennon is out of reach, consider half lap joinery, it will pay back many times over in rigidity.

I agree with the mortise and tenon. I cut mine with a hand saw, mallet and chisel. I'm not a professional, but woodworking extremely therapeutic to me. What type of woodworking do you do?

[barnhart]

I build furniture and cabinetry for interior decorators.

I agree Paul Sellers is a wonderful resource.

You don't need a lot tools to do fine work, a mere 200 years ago a traveling furniture maker could carry his kit on his back. As long as you are willing to sweat as much and learn as much as he, you can produce similar work.

[Signtist]

I agree Paul Sellers is a wonderful resource.

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