Build a foldaway workbench

When closed, this bench tucks into a wall-mounted unit and, when open, it provides a 1200 x 900mm worktop. There is access to tools from shelves on both sides and a double-sided pegboard door. To set it up, just pull the legs from the recesses under the top and secure with four steel braces and threaded knobs. Then release the bolt latch and lower the bench.

 

When the unit and bench are complete, mount a bolt latch to the centre face frame piece. (Ensure it fits down through the front apron at least 25mm.) Mount the latch so that when raised, the bolt sits about 2mm above the lower edge of the lower face frame. Drill pilot holes and screw it into place. Drill another hole in
the front apron of the worktop to mate with the bolt on the latch. Hold the worktop closed and
unbolt the latch. Lower the worktop onto the floor and then drill a 12mm hole for the bolt. Finish with two coats of polyurethane. When the finish is dry, install the shelves.

 

Cut the 19mm plywood according to the Cutting List. Use a straightedge guide or table saw to cut pieces to width, then a large square as a guide to cut them to length. tIP A speed square helps make 90o crosscuts.

 

Glue and nail side pieces to the top and bottom with 50mm bullet head nails every 150mm. Glue and nail the front hanger strip to the bottom and sides. Recess the hanger strip 3mm to make room for hinges. Fix back (D) in position every 150mm.

 

Start by centring the middle partition. Glue and nail it to the top, bottom and through the back. Then glue and nail the fixed horizontal shelves into place. Skew- nail the second (E2). Fix face frame pieces (F and G) in place.

 

Cut a strip of pegboard to use as a drill guide for making the 5mm diameter, 12mm deep shelf pin holes, Use a stop on the bit to prevent it from punching through the opposite side. Finish the holes 175mm from the top and bottom.