Multifunction or dedicated bench

**addyau** · 20th December 2021, 11:23 PM

Hi All,

I'm about to (eventually) start a build of my first workbench. Today, my primary use are power tools and assembly, however I'd like to get more into hand tools.
I've designed a bench that has a table saw built into it (DeWalt contractor's saw) and can also add a router in the future (1.9m long with the TS). I like Rob Cosman's workbench with stacking 4x 18mm MDF sheets for the top for mass and solid feel.
But now, I'm rethinking it all.
The space in my workshop is limited (single car garage with built in shelves) so the max I could get away with in terms of overall length is 2m.

My question is:
Will this workbench (built out of pine and recycled Jarrah (i've got a lot of it in the workshop) with MDF top) be sturdy enough for hand planing, chiseling, sawing etc, or am I better of building a dedicated workbench (1.5m long) and then put the table saw on a separate small cabinet and use the workbench as the outfeed?
The benefit of the designed bench is that it has plenty of storage space underneath, and can take the router without taking up any additional space.

Thanks all, Addy

Below are some photos of my planned layout of the workshop, my designed workbench without the top shown and with the top shown.
Workshop.jpg

Without top.jpg

With top.jpg

**orraloon** · 21st December 2021, 04:43 PM

Having the saw in a stand of its own would be the best option. Clearing the workbench every time you want to cut something will drive you nuts. If I was setting up a saw in a single garage then I would go for something like this.
The Ultimate Mobile Table Saw Station with Storage & Outfeed - YouTube
You could always hinge another wing on the side for a router. Just have a bench as a bench. And yes that Cosman bench or something similar will be fine for hand tool work.
Regards
John

**addyau** · 21st December 2021, 04:53 PM

Originally Posted by orraloon

Having the saw in a stand of its own would be the best option. Clearing the workbench every time you want to cut something will drive you nuts. If I was setting up a saw in a single garage then I would go for something like this.
The Ultimate Mobile Table Saw Station with Storage & Outfeed - YouTube
You could always hinge another wing on the side for a router.
Regards
John

Oh that is perfect. I guess I'll just have to deal with 1.5m long bench if I ever have longer stock than that.

Thanks again!

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**Bucky** · 21st December 2021, 07:14 PM

I have just built the Cosman bench. Used 3x25mm MDF great for hand tool woodworking. Only need one full size sheet. 1500 mm in length 50mm wide. Easy 2 day build.

**Midnight Man** · 24th December 2021, 04:43 PM

I notice your drill press is between the Toolbox and something else (apologies, cannot read the label).

This might be a bit painful if you have a large piece to drill into? Perhaps consider putting the drill next to the door, and the toolbox toward where the drill was. At least in this way, you have more open and free access to the drill?

**addyau** · 25th December 2021, 03:09 AM

Originally Posted by Midnight Man

I notice your drill press is between the Toolbox and something else (apologies, cannot read the label).

This might be a bit painful if you have a large piece to drill into? Perhaps consider putting the drill next to the door, and the toolbox toward where the drill was. At least in this way, you have more open and free access to the drill?

Thanks for the suggestion. The idea is that it will all be on wheels with the toolbox wheeled into the garage (access through that door).
But now thinking about it, I might swap it as per your suggestion so I don't have to wheel it out to use it. Thanks again!

Addy

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