This Folding Workbench Gave Me My Garage Back
Ever feel like your shop is slowly closing in on you? Like you’re building furniture inside a storage unit? Yeah… same.
That’s exactly why I built this super functional (and surprisingly space-saving) folding workbench — and it completely changed my workflow.
I’m walking through every step of the build in this video, but here’s the quick version with a few highlights, some sarcasm, and just enough photos to make you think, “Hey, maybe I could actually build this.”
First: The Tabletop Frame
I cut all four frame pieces a little long because I like having a bit of wiggle room. Like jeans after Thanksgiving.
Once I dialed in the miters, I glued and clamped everything together using 90° clamp squares. Because nothing says “pro-level build” like right angles.
To keep things sturdy, I recessed screws into the longer frame pieces and hid them with 3/8" dowels. Classy and strong — like a woodshop version of James Bond.
Mounting the Frame to the Top
Pocket hole screws go in from underneath, then I added a center support with recessed construction screws — hidden by more dowels because, again, classy.
Building the Folding Legs
Next up: legs. The lower sections get notched using the table saw and a bunch of passes. Just think of it like carving a turkey — if your turkey was made of pine.
After glue-ups and final length cuts, I added a pivot screw near the top of each leg. This is what allows the whole folding magic to happen.
Each leg bolts to the tabletop frame with — you guessed it — bolts, washers, and nuts. Not everything needs to be fancy.
The Supports That Make It Work
There’s an upper and a lower support piece for each pair of legs.
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The lower piece is slotted and attached with screws and glue.
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The upper piece acts as a stop, keeping the legs at exactly 90°.
Edge Banding and Wall Mounts
For a polished look, I added hardwood edge banding to the tabletop using glue, tape, and a flush trim bit. It’s a small touch that makes a huge difference.
Then I built wall mounts that let the whole bench fold up and out of the way when I need more space. Like when I want to swing a 2x4 like a lightsaber. Hypothetically.
Want to Build One?
This workbench turned my cramped garage into a real-deal workshop. It folds up cleanly and gives me so much room for activities.
And I made plans for it! They’re detailed, they have an in-depth instructional video, and they’re designed to make your life easier. You can grab the plans by CLICKING HERE.
Here is the finished workbench!
Final Thoughts
If you’re short on space but big on building, this folding workbench might just be your new best friend. (Don’t worry, your clamps will understand.)
Watch the full YouTube video here.
Be Kind & Be Awesome.
- Thomas Gojkovich
Thomas Custom Woodworks