TIP: LEARN TO WORK WITH MDF

MDF (medium density fibreboard) is a great material for making a workbench. It’s dense, durable, and very flat. MDF does present a few challenges, though. First, the sheets are big and heavy. You may want to have the hardware supplier cross-cut the sheet into two pieces – making the cut at about 1 500 mm from one end – to make it easier to haul home. Or, for a small fee, you can have them cut the parts from the sheet at the sizes needed. When you cut MDF, it produces a lot of fine dust, so be sure to wear a dust mask when making cuts so you don’t breathe it in.

STEP 9: ASSEMBLE THE TOP

Spread glue on the underside of the top, and then glue it to the sub-top keeping one edge and one end flush, as shown. Clamp the parts together while the glue sets, or drive a few 32 mm screws in from the underside instead of using clamps.

STEP 10: ADD THE TRACK

Once the glue is set on the bench-top assembly, install the Kreg Clamp Trak Kit to the sub-top following the manufacturer’s instructions.

MDF (MEDIUM DENSITY FIBREBOARD) IS A GREAT MATERIAL FOR MAKING A WORKBENCH. IT’S DENSE, DURABLE, AND VERY FLAT.

STEP 11: INSTALL THE TOP AND SHELF, THEN FINISH

Install the bench top assembly by first positioning it, and then checking for equal overhangs at the front and back, and on each end, as shown. Then attach the top assembly using 32 mm coarse-thread Kreg Pocket-Hole Screws. Install the bottom shelf so it fits flush with the outer edges of the bottom rails and the side rails. Then you can apply a protective finish.