A compact 2x4 workbench is 47 1/2 in wide, 22 in deep and 34 in high. It uses 2x4 legs and frame, a 2x6 top and a 1x6 lower shelf, about 8 boards in total, and takes 4 to 6 hours for a first build.
A workbench built from 2x4s is the classic first big project: the lumber is cheap, you can buy it anywhere, and the frame is strong. Here is a complete materials and cut list for a compact bench, with the numbers worked out in inches and millimeters. It comes from our Compact Workbench plan (PS-10).
Finished size
47½ × 22 × 34 in (1207 x 559 x 864 mm). About 4–6 hours for a first build, and 8 boards to buy. It is made from construction pine or fir 2x4, 2x6 and 1x6. Those sizes are actual lumber sizes: a 2x4 is 1 1/2 in x 3 1/2 in.
Cut list
| Part | Name | Qty | Board | Length | In mm |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A | Leg | 4 | 2x4 | 32 1/2" | 826 mm |
| B | Long apron | 2 | 2x4 | 44 1/2" | 1130 mm |
| C | End apron | 2 | 2x4 | 16" | 406 mm |
| D | Long rail | 2 | 2x4 | 44 1/2" | 1130 mm |
| E | End rail | 2 | 2x4 | 16" | 406 mm |
| F | Center brace | 1 | 2x4 | 16" | 406 mm |
| G | Top board | 4 | 2x6 | 47 1/2" | 1207 mm |
| H | Shelf board | 5 | 1x6 | 19" | 483 mm |
The legs are 32 1/2 in so that, with the 1 1/2 in top, the bench is 34 in high. Add about 1/8 in per cut for the saw kerf when you lay the cuts out on your boards; see how to read a cut list.
Hardware and tools
Hardware
- Wood screws, 3 in x 52
- Wood screws, 2-1/2 in x 24
- Wood screws #8 x 1-5/8 in x 10
- Wood glue (optional)
Tools
- Miter saw, circular saw or hand saw
- Drill/driver with a pilot-hole and countersink bit
- Tape measure, speed square and pencil
- Clamps (two or more)
- 80 and 120 grit sandpaper
How it goes together
- Cut all the parts
- Build the two end frames
- Join the frames
- Fit the center brace
- Add the lower shelf
- Add the top
- Finish
Build the two end frames first, join them with the long pieces, and check the frame is square by comparing the diagonals before you drive the final screws (see how to check if a project is square). Predrill every screw so the 2x4s do not split.
Tips for a sturdy bench
- Pick straight boards. Sight along each 2x4 at the store and leave the twisted ones.
- Let the lumber acclimate for a day or two in your garage before you cut, so it does not move after you build.
- Use the right screws. The longer 3 in screws go into the frame, and the shorter ones fix the shelf boards.
- Check the height for you. See standard workbench dimensions to adjust the leg length.
Get the full plan
The plan adds the shopping list by board length, a cutting diagram, dimensioned drawings, an exploded view, a 3D view of every step and the exact diagonals to measure. See the Compact Workbench plan page. Our plans are modeled and checked in 3D and have not yet been built and tested, so dry-fit before you drive screws.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it take to build a 2x4 workbench?
Our compact plan needs about 8 boards and an estimated 4–6 hours for a first build.
How long should the legs of a 2x4 workbench be?
In our plan the legs are 32 1/2 inches, which with a 1 1/2 inch top makes a 34 inch high bench. Adjust the leg length to your height.
What screws do I use for a 2x4 workbench?
Our plan uses 3 inch screws for the frame and shorter screws for the shelf boards, with every hole predrilled.
How do I keep a workbench from wobbling?
Brace the frame with rails, check it is square by comparing the diagonals, and set it on a flat floor.
The full workbench plan
Plan PS-10 has the shopping list by board length, a cutting diagram, a 3D view of every step and the Square Checks.
See the plan