09/18/2026
Haven’t been doing very many garage projects lately, but here’s an interesting one…
Over my lifetime thus far I’ve fabricated more than 35 different workbenches, both for myself and for garage clients. Maybe the number is closer to 50, IDK. Anyway, I’ve never built the same workbench twice, because there’s always a special application to make accommodations for.
This one is unique because:
1) It’s for a rental storage unit that houses a hotrod car, so the bench has to be auto workshop strong, but also adapted to accommodate multi function special storage needs, and (*sigh*)- stand alone without electricity.
2) This is the tallest workbench I’ve ever built, by a long shot. Traditionally I build the horizontal work surface height between 32” and 35” from the floor. This one is over 40”. Also I went really tall on the backside so to accommodate an overhead 15” deep shelf, and white pegboard backing for tools and such. Because of the excessive height, and width (90”W), I’ll be installing a center support column vertically- to both stiffen the pegboard, and also act as center support for the high shelf.
3) I long ago committed to under-cabinet style workbench lighting, which mounts under the traditional lower-positioned shelf assembly. About 15 years ago I started only building workbenches with white laminate 1/8” hardboard for the work surface, and when matched with a LED 4’W shoplight, yowza, the whole place lights up like a Griswold Christmas. But alas without electricity in the storage unit, I’m experimenting with a new to me battery-powered setup, so stay tuned. I’m hopeful to get a good result.
4) This is the first bench I’ve ever built where I’m not leaving room below the lower shelf for specialty storage like oil drain pans, sawhorses, etc. Since I know there are no such needs in the storage unit, I’m maximizing vertical shelf space. Also I’m adding a parts section down below and pre-configuring it different than ever before. Watch for updates. Although I’m on and off whether or not I stain the wood frame structure- depending on the shop color palette and setting, I decided to stain this one.
