Building a Workbench

Whether you are looking for a work area that you can use to rebuild that engine, or you are more interested in scrap booking, one step thing that you can do to ensure it truly is your space is to make your own work bench. Building a work bench isn't all that difficult as long as you follow these directions.

1. Think about your needs. When building a workbench of your own, the very first thing that you will need to do is sit down and think about your needs. Stop and think about what you plan on using the workbench for, and make notes as you do this. For example, are you going to actually be using it as a wood working area, maybe it will be a platform for some computer work, or anything else you can imagine.
2. Create a design. No matter what you want to use the workbench for, you will need to come up with a design that will help you implement it to the fullest. You really don't need to be a graphic artist to create a design that will work for you, but it does help to draw out what you want. This will give you a visual representation that you can use to as a blue print for your building efforts. As you draw out your plan, don't forget to include the general dimensions as well. This will allow you to know how much material that you need, and allow you to create a budget for the project.
3. Get the materials you will need. Take your blue print to your favorite home improvement store, and begin talking to one of the sales associates and you will get some great help on getting the materials you need. For example, if you are wanting to make your workbench out of wood, this clerk can tell you which kinds of woods that they have in stock, and which ones will be the best for your particular needs. Furthermore, these stores can often "precut" the materials to the rough dimensions that you require, leaving the detail work to you at home.
4. Begin building. Take the materials you have received, and the blueprint that you made home. When there you will be able to begin building your workbench. Take your time as you do this work, and do not rush the project. Just remember that a mistake can potentially be one that costs you a bunch of money that you really don't want to spend. A simple rule of thumb is to measure twice, and cut once. Only make your cuts (if you are making any) when you are absolutely certain of where you want to cut.
5. Sand, finish, and paint. When you have everything assembled, you still aren't finished. Basically what you need to do now is to sand the exposed surfaces (as well as any drawers that you have made as well). This will allow a smooth surface to work with. Paint, or prime and seal the woodwork as you wish. When you are finished all you need to do is clean up any remaining detritus, installing the workbench in your work area, and store the remaining items as necessary.

Keep in mind that these instructions are purposefully general so that you can personalize the final product as much as you can. All you really need to do is use your imagination, and you will simply love the final result. Best of all, the final result is one that you will be able to say is truly your own.