How to Build a Garage Workbench

If you want to create projects at home, you need your own workspace. One of the best places to build is often the garage. Unfortunately, buying a garage workbench can be an expensive investment.

Luckily, you can make your own workbench and save money in the process. Plus, if you want to do more DIY projects at home, building a garage workbench is a great place to start.

With some simple materials, you can build your own workbench in just a few hours. But, if you don’t know where to start, don’t worry! We will cover everything you need to know to get started.

In this post, we will discuss how to choose the perfect tabletop and what to use for a frame. We will also look at other projects for inspiration in addition to step-by-step instructions for building a garage workbench. Most of these projects incorporate Kee Klamp fittings and pipe into the base, which helps reduce the overall cost of the project.

DIY Garage Workbench Ideas

garage workbench 0 4

Ben from Fairfax, Virginia created this wall-mounted garage workbench using a butcher block table top, galvanized pipe, and Swivel Flange fittings. This smaller workbench is the perfect option if you don’t have a ton of space to work with. Since it is wall-mounted, it clears up space on the floor and utilizes otherwise unused wall space.

garage workbench 0

Unlike the previous project, Cliff from Muskegon, Michigan wanted to create a large workbench. Cliff needed a heavy-duty workbench that could support a lot of weight. He consulted our projects team, and together, they created this impressive garage workspace. Cliff said, “bottom line...I enjoyed the project thoroughly. Now I have a bodacious industrial-strength bench that anyone would be proud to own. It is 16 feet by 30 inches and could hold an airplane engine.”

garage workbench 0 1

Zach from Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania built this garage workbench using a dark-stained wood tabletop. He decided to spray paint the pipe black to give the piece a sleek look. When you are designing your own workbench, remember to be creative. To build a similar project, you will need Flange fittings, Single Socket Tee fittings, 90° Side Outlet Tee fittings, and pipe.

garage workbench 0 2

This modern garage workbench was created for a repair shop in Virginia Beach, Virginia. The designers used a stainless steel tabletop for this project. Flange fittings, Single Socket Tee fittings, and 90° Side Outlet Tee fittings are also used in the design. After finishing the project, the designer was happy he choose Kee Klamp fittings and galvanized pipe for the base. He said, “the stuff's strong and sturdy, no worries about it buckling or falling apart."

garage workbench 0 3

Paul from Hull, Massachusetts created this rolling garage workbench with a wood tabletop, Kee Klamp fittings, and galvanized pipe. Paul wanted a workbench that he could easily move around his garage as needed. Paul added locking casters to the base of the workbench so it could be mobile.

What to Consider Before Building a Garage Workbench

Now that you’ve seen some workbench projects, it’s time to think about your own project. Before designing your project, here are some things to consider:

  • Height- One of the most important things to think about is how tall your workbench should be. There is no one perfect size, but the general rule of thumb is to build a workbench 34” tall to match a table saw height. Some designers prefer to make their benches a different height depending on the projects they plan on creating.
  • Materials- What materials do you want to use for your project? Consider if you want a wood or stainless steel tabletop.
  • Time- How long do you want to spend designing and building your workbench? If you don’t have a ton of time to devote to this project, using Kee Klamp fittings and pipe can help you save time.
  • Expense- Think about your budget for this project. Building your own workbench instead of buying one will help you save money. But, certain materials are more expensive than others. Decide how much you want to spend before getting started.

Garage Workbench Tabletop Options

There are two main tabletop options for garage workbenches: wood and stainless steel.

Before picking your tabletop, think about the projects you will be building on this workbench. Do you need a lightweight or heavy-duty tabletop? Will your projects involve hammering and sawing or scraping and sanding?

Ultimately, the choice is up to you. Wood, specifically raw wood or reclaimed wood, is a cost-effective tabletop. Maple is one of the best woods to use for this type of project. You can add a laminate or sealant to a wood tabletop to help make it more durable.

Stainless steel tabletops can be more expensive but are often a good choice for heavy-duty projects. These tabletops also add a sleek look to the workbench.

Garage Workbench Frame Options

In addition to tabletops, you should also think about the frame you want to use for your project. A few options to consider are:

  • Kee Klamp fittings and pipe- By using Kee Klamp fittings and pipe, you can design any frame you want. These fittings can be easily adjusted if needed. This is a great way to keep your design affordable.
  • Frame Kits- If you want to make the project even simpler, consider purchasing a frame kit. These kits include everything you need to assemble your workbench frame.
  • Wood- Wooden boards can also be used to create the base of your workbench. Get creative with your design and add shelves under the tabletop. You can stain the wood depending on the aesthetic you are looking for.

How to Build a Garage Workbench

Now that you know more about garage workbenches, it is time to build your own!

Step 1: Select Your Materials

Start by gathering the materials you need to get started. Decide what type of tabletop and frame you are going to use.

Also, think about the height and measure your base to match. Once you have your supplies you can get started on the assembly.

Step 2: Build Your Base

After gathering your supplies, it is time to assemble the frame. Using Kee Klamp fittings and galvanized pipe makes for a simple construction process. Build the legs and horizontal support for the base.

Complete the base by preparing the tabletop attachments. Gather the hardware you need to attach your chosen tabletop to the newly constructed frame. Once your base is sturdy, move on to step 3.

Step 3: Attach the Tabletop

From here, attach the tabletop to the base of your workbench. Depending on the tabletop you choose, construction processes will vary. Essentially, use the appropriate hardware to firmly attach the tabletop to the base.

Step 4: Customize as Desired

After the basic construction process is complete, decide if you want to add any customizations. Include a shelf under the tabletop. Or, paint or stain the bench if you want. Allow yourself to get creative with your project.

Once you are finished, enjoy your newly completed garage workbench!

Build Your Own Garage Workbench Today!

Ready to get started on your own project? Sure, it seems overwhelming at first, but we are here to help! We offer free design assistance to answer any questions you have about your project. When you finish your garage workbench, please send us a picture of your project. We would love to see the workbench you create!

Our Team is Here to Help

Simplified Building Team

Our experts will help you select the items you need to create your project.

Shopping Cart

Show Pricing

Option available in footer.