Introduction: DIY Rolling Workbench

By DIY Huntress
About: Hi, I’m Sam! Full time psychologist and woodworker! I build things and publish plans. Check out my website and YouTube channel for more project ideas!

I was in desperate need for a sturdy, custom workbench for my new lathe, but needed something that could roll out of the way when not in use since my shop is so small! So, I made this DIY Rolling Workbench for under $50 in lumber!

For printable plans, check out my website: https://diyhuntress.com/diy-rolling-workbench/

Supplies

Tools:

  • Miter Saw
  • Drill/Driver
  • Table Saw (Optional)
  • Planer (Optional)
  • Pocket Hole Jig
  • Sander & Sandpaper
  • Wood Clamps
  • Tape Measure
  • Speed Square
  • Safety Goggles
  • Dust Mask

Materials*:

  • (14) 2 x 4 x 8′ Board
  • (4) Casters & Hardware (I used Drop Down Casters)
  • 2 ½” Pocket Hole Screws
  • Wood Glue

Cut List*:

  • (5) Top Shelf Pieces @ 55 ½”
  • (3) Long Bottom Shelf Pieces @ 55 ½”
  • (2) Short Bottom Shelf Pieces @ 52 ½”
  • (4) Long Supports @ 52 ½”
  • (4) Legs @ 27”
  • (4) Short Supports @ 10 ½”
  • (4) Brace Supports @ 14 ½”

* All materials and measurements are for my specific build. Make sure to double check the measurements & materials you need before starting your own build!

Step 1: Cut Your Longest Pieces First

Start by cutting your 55 ½” top shelf pieces and long bottom shelf pieces (I chose to run my pieces through the table saw and planer after this step to help with glue-up. This is totally optional!).

Step 2: Glue Your Panels

Once your long shelf pieces have been cut, it’s time to assemble them. I chose to glue mine up using clamps and glue. However, these can also be assembled using pocket hole joinery from the underside.

Step 3: Cut the Rest of Your Pieces

While the glue-up dries, use your leftover 2 x 4 boards to cut the remaining pieces for your stand (if you are planing and squaring the boards with the table saw, make sure to double check all measurements before cutting these pieces to their final sizes).

Step 4: Drill Pocket Holes

Drill pocket holes in the ends of every piece except for your leg and shelf pieces. Also make sure to drill holes along one side of each support piece as well (you will drill the top and bottom shelf into these support pieces later).

Step 5: Assemble the Sides

Once your frame pieces are ready, begin assembling the two smaller workbench sides using pocket holes and wood glue.

Step 6: Attach the Long Supports

Next, attach the two sides with the long front and support pieces using the same joinery.

Step 7: Add Bracing

Once your frame has been assembled, add your support braces in between each of the front and back pieces (didn’t have a photo of this step, so here is a drawing).

Step 8: Attach the Shelving

Next, flip your stand over and attach the top and long bottom shelf pieces using the pocket holes you drilled in your frame pieces.

Once the longer shelf pieces/panels have been added, attach the short shelf pieces the same way.

Step 9: Attach the Wheels

Last step is to attach your casters! I chose drop-down ones so my lathe stand can sit solidly against the floor when turning.

Step 10: Add Your Tools!

This part is the most fun - add your tools to your shop and enjoy your new workbench!