How to Build a Workbench for the Garage

A workbench you actually use needs three things: rock solid, the right height, and big enough but not too big. Here's the build I've made a dozen times.

Standard workbench height is 34–36" — about wrist-height when standing relaxed. For a mainly-hand-tool bench, go slightly lower (32"). For assembly work, go higher (38"). Pick one based on your most common use; you won't comfortably switch.

Build the base from 4x4 posts (legs) and 2x6 rails (stretchers and aprons). Mortise and tenon joinery is traditional and rock solid, but bolted lap joints with 3/8" carriage bolts are nearly as strong and much faster. Make the base 2-3" smaller in both dimensions than the top to give your knees room.

For the top, glue two layers of 3/4" MDF together for a 1-1/2" thick, dead-flat surface. Cap the front edge with hardwood (oak or maple) so the MDF edge doesn't take impacts. Total cost for a 2'x6' bench: about $200 in lumber.

Add a tool well at the back if you want — a recessed strip 4" wide and 1" deep that catches the small tools that always migrate to the front edge. Anchor the bench to the wall on at least one end so it doesn't walk during heavy planing or hammering.