workbench layout

[tuip]

I looked through the archives but couldn't quite find an answer and hope to tap into some wisdom. I'm planning to build a decent sized workbench and wonder what the best layout/shape would be. I have an opening in my shop on the backwall that is about 12 or so ft wide. I could do a wall to wall there but I'm concerned that the placement of the drill and vice might just not work out close to a wall. Would an L shaped (8x4 ft) be better and leave the open area on the side of the wall for a cabinet that is shallower than the bench?

 

[bob15]

What do you plan on doing in it? Woodworking or steel/welding or engine building, etc? What else do you have besides a drill and vise? Bench grinder, chop saw, parts cleaner, toolboxes, etc?

 

[matt_i]

As I get older I recognize the greater potential for a workbench where you can walk around all 4 sides, well...at least 3. I think it helps keep them cleaner since stuff can't get "pushed to the back" and one is forced to organize and put away as new projects come to the bench. I have always built the traditional versions against the walls but having setup a temporary table in a new workspace where I can walk around, its my favorite one so far.

 

[dffay]

That idea of a peninsula is good. It affords placement for a bolted vise on an end corner and clamping sides available for project hold down from at least two directions.

 

[Bread tie]

Mine sits out side now it's a 4/4 welding table with a vice I just got it I paid a lot for it but I like it.

 

[Always_Thinkin]

I know you are asking about one workbench. However, I used a single 8 ft long stand alone workbench that sat against the back wall of my garage for years. I no longer live there and have since bought a new house. I now have a workbench that is free standing and i can pull away from the wall and also have a fold up island workbench. This is a great setup. It is very handy. Since the island workbench folds up, I can store it in the corner of my garage when i don't need it. Another idea as far as having a second workbench would be to have a murphy style and in this case it can be made so you can adjust the height. I have some pictures of my setup and of a murphy style bench that i originally had planned to build until i went the fold up island bench.

 

[Steevo]

I like a bench against a wall (or a corner) for basic workbench stuff, and drill presses in the open where they aren't limited by walls, and a welding bench needs to be deeper and more mobile than any other bench.

There is no one single bench that works for it all.