Australian Woodsmith

Workbench Sidekick

When I built my workbench, one of the main goals was to have a surface large enough to handle most projects. It wasn’t difficult to achieve that. However, bench space shrinks quickly once you factor in the tools, plans and other supplies you need close to hand while working. And wouldn’t it be nice to have extra space for assembly, too? Answering all these points leads to the origin of this project.

Now I realise that a cart in the workshop isn’t a groundbreaking development. What makes this one unique is how its size and features play into the role of a workbench companion. You know, that trusted sidekick every hero has.

The primary feature is the extra acreage supplied by the top. And there are two options: a workbench-like solid wood surface or a more basic rimmed top (lower inset). A pull-out tray supplies another surface for when workshop time is in full speed.

Putting the space below the top to use makes practical sense. So three drawers and an enclosed compartment organise and divide the area for versatile storage.

As for the look, designer Dillon Baker took inspiration from a Shaker dry sink. Of course, the Shakers knew a thing or two about organisation. So I think they would approve. Simple

You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.

More from Australian Woodsmith

Australian Woodsmith6 min read
To Clean or Not To Clean?
Reversing turning work to better deal with the recesses or spigots/tenons used initially to hold the piece poses more than a few questions. Do you need to? How would you do it? And what’s the safest method? The answers will vary depending on your abi
Australian Woodsmith3 min read
Rebuilding a Stanley No 52
The Stanley tool company built both the No 51 chute plane and the No 52 chute board from 1909 until 1943. That makes any Stanley No 51 or 52 at least 80 years old. The plane itself has No 51 cast into its body. The plane is designed to fit into a chu
Australian Woodsmith1 min read
Australian Woodsmith
PUBLISHER Ian Brooks EDITOR Chris Clark TECHNICAL EDITOR Mark Jones DESIGNER Julitta Overdijk SUBSCRIPTION MANAGER Julie Hughes INTERNATIONAL EDITOR Bryan Nelson EDITORIAL STAFF Vincent Ancona, Robert Kemp, Phil Huber, Wyatt Meyers, EXECUTIVE ART DIR

Related