🛠Charlie DIYte Amazon Tool Store amzn.to/3fcLnY4 - all my tried, tested and much loved DIY tools. Help support me by Buying me a Coffee ☕ bit.ly/3xuQ3zb and unlock a host of benefits - thanks so much 🙏.
Made a small 3'x5' (900mm x 1500mm) bench with this design. Big enough for most of my jobs, strong enough for all my jobs, cheap enough to make me smile (even with today's eye-popping lumber prices).
I need to thank you Charlie . We moved house 2 months ago and every thing was shoved into the garage The garden was just grass so the son in law got a turf cutter and got rid of it, we were left with clay soil and when it rained it was just a quagmire the rain would not soak away, so we thought we would have a good bit of decking and shingle. Well I could not move in the garage to do any work as I don't have a bench yet, and no room for one then I thought of you and your portable bench so I made one and just used a old piece of kitchen top for the work surface 4 ft long it is heavy enough not to move and now it is all done. It was a life saving idea so thanks again Charlie.
Watched this video before Christmas. Added these sawhorses to my Christmas present wish list. Received. I haven't done what is done in this video yet, but I've used them several times over the past week in building new garage shelves. 2x3's slot right in to the notches snugly, and with chipboard screwed to them, or 2400 2x3's used with 2 sheets of chipboard screwed on end to end, this has provided a great worktop and assembly bench. Once finished my work, easily and quickly dismantled, and the sawhorses take up very little space in the garage. Thanks Charlie. Already one of the most beneficial items in my garage workshop, and I see so much more that they are going to benefit with overtime, both inside and outside!! Simple, but superbly effective.
I don't know how many videos I've looked at saying yeah that looks descent, I'll make that one! But this... THIS..... this is the one! Simple, portable and above all this novice can make it with the tools I have! Nice one Charlie!
Cheers mate. Yes it's been a game changer. Don't know what I'd do without it. Good luck with the build. You won't regret it. Also, check out the other videos in the series as it makes it much easier to transport if you cut it in half.
Charlie, you are a star, just what I needed! I have been looking to buy saw horses that are light weight and could convert to a site table, and before I clicked ‘buy’ I thought let me see if someone has done this on RUclips and voila! there you were, with your ever amazing ideas, through explanations that leaves one well and truly informed. Thank you Charlie
You're very welcome - thanks for taking the time to pen that!! Yes I honestly don't know what I'd do without my work table now and I don't know whether you've chanced upon the playlist, but I've done a few upgrades to this bench now, including this one ruclips.net/video/PTN3EmLiYdg/видео.html Thanks again!
Charlie DIYte Thanks Charlie, for some reason I had watched the ‘halving’ of the table before this one; very helpful. Got the pair of horses per your description on sale for £15 less! I’ve also got long heavy duty strap hinges ( not quite as bold as you are to customise that hinge) let me give it a try. Kind regards
Splendid video. I have those same sawhorses and have used them with 2x4 studs and plywood to make a temporary workbench many times. I noted the same "rocking" you mentioned but it never occurred to me to lower the point of side-to-side force and thereby reducing the leverage the top-heavy bench has on the structure. Brilliant. My needs are lighter, so I am going to use one-half-inch plywood, just to save some weight. I am making mine today and after that is done I am going to spend time watching other videos you have posted. Thanks again.
Thanks Paul. I couldn't manage without it. There are a few other videos in the series, if you're interested. It was a big lump to lug around so I hinged it and also drilled an MDT top into it. 👍🏻
I'm 6'3" so I substituted the 2x4s with 2x6s, located the top of the notches at the center of the boards which raised my work top 3 inches and it's just as sturdy.
Yey! Thanks Marc. I've got a couple of upgrades to it so stay tuned but can't recommend this bench highly enough. I don't know what I'd do without it now!!
I own one of these saw horses and today I finished making this exact thing. Many thanks for your video series on this. Mine will most likely stay in the garage all the time so it's unlikely I'll do any of the further steps but I'm very grateful to have workbench after all these years.
I really like your videos. You explain things nicely. I'm VERY new to woodworking so your videos come in really handy. Sometimes I'm not 100% sure why something gets done, but then you explain why and who and when so nicely. Thank you. Keep up the good work. You are making a difference in people's lives
Aw, Verna, what a lovely comment - massive thanks for that! You're very welcome. I guess I've always got really annoyed by those instructions you get with things you've bought that are just rubbish, and you wonder why as it's so easy to explain to people clearly what they need to do, so that's why RUclips is such a great platform because I can finally do things my way!
I made one 2 x 1m as a temporary work bench last year. Its been a lifesaver and I can pack it away in the roof space of my garage. I added a couple of rows of bench dog holes for extra versatility and so I could use it as a track saw station. Works really well. The Stanley saw horse are currently (13/03/2020) on offer in Screwfix £20 a pair so about 30% saving.
Well done Charlie; you explained in much better detail than I did in my silent film, bravo mate. I like your method of getting the precise angle to increase stability. - Steve
SA Bjork Thanks Steve - that's very magnanimous of you! I think yours is much easier to carry around than my monster, although I have a few upgrades planned to make it lighter and more portable. I'll drop you a link when it's done. Thanks again.
Yes I do the same thing and have done for years, except I don't cut the angles which as you so rightly state gives it very good stability. The reason being that it allows me to reuse the 4" X 2" CLS on other projects. It is less stable this way, but I get by. Thanks for the video, most helpful.
"I used my Irwin handsaw for this cut.... I used my Irwin floorboard saw for that cut" reminds me of the Blue Hawk adverts from the previous century - so eager to display the products! As a retired professional tradesperson though, I recommend Charlie's channel to all youngsters who ask me for advice on how to do stuff around the house!
Made this in smaller form, using pre-cut 4 ft 2X4" pieces and a 4X2 ft "project panel" topper from Home Depot, who also carries the Stanley sawhorses in this video. I was going to get a Workmate 425, but this works fine for me and saved me some money, too. Cost about $60 as of 7/7/21. Thanks, Charlie.
I made a worktop using 2 x 3" planks (8 foot length) and 2 project boards of 30 x 48". I simply fixed the project boards to the planks using wood screws to make an 8 foot by 30 inch worksurface, which I simply seat onto the sawhorses for an amazing DIY'er workbench. It's sturdy enough for the at-home projects that I've been doing, though admittedly no where near up to the standard demonstrated here. But for home diy jobs, it's been great. When I'm done the worktop removes easily for storing away. I plan to put some cross supports to up the strength and stability of the worktop since I'll be moving the it around over time as I take it in and out of storage. Thanks for the inspiration!
Good work, George. Yes, that sounds like an excellent work around. Bottom line, we all need temporary work tops for our DIY projects, howsoever we make them 👍
Just a suggestion for all you DIY'ers, the 2x4 supports under the short end of your worktop will work best if they are set back 6" to 9" just like the side overhangs which will allow for clamping ease around the whole circumference of the Sacrificial worktop. 2"-3" is all you really need, but I like a few more inches so I can drill 3/4" Dog Holes As Needed To Allow For Clamps and Stuff. Check out Kreg or Armor Dog Clamps
Built my own workbench this weekend using this idea. Used mdf rather than ply. Now means I've got a nice big work space that was cheap, easy and fun to build. Only downside is the weight.
Thanks John. Really glad you found it useful. Check out the other vids in the series of you haven't already. I found it a bit big to lug around in one piece so cutting it in half and buying a couple of extra saw horses is worth doing, even if you don't hinge them. 👍🏻
@@CharlieDIYte yes I have watched a LOT of your vids. They are so clear and helpful. I'm renovating my house and have acquired so many skills, thanks to you 🙏
Thank you so very much for this video. I purchased these same Stanley saw horses back in January 2020 but haven't used them yet because I couldn't figure out how to make and secure a work table top onto them. I can't wait to try this out on Saturday.
Thanks Jody. There's a playlist of the videos I put together for this. ruclips.net/p/PLyai2ugIzdZXJ1nnlk9art1fbWIhV-Zt_ I don't know what I'd do without this work bench now.
James S Flattered that I've been able to show you a new tip James! I've bought the UKJ Parf Guide system but just need to get round to installing it. A bit expensive but it'll transform it!
Charlie, well thought out and excellent instruction. Clear enough even for me! I own a set of those plastic saw horses that have the notches. Thanks for sharing.
Good stuff! Say, if you glue the top to the 2 x 4 ‘s (American slang) instead of screwing it, then you eliminate the risk of ruining a blade or router bit through a miscalculation that brings it in contact with the screws. In addition, without screws, you can intentionally cut through the workpiece, and into the top, to make smoother, safer cuts. The beauty of a sacrificial top cannot be overstated. Wood filler, wallboard mud, and auto body filler all come in gallon cans. Cheers mate. GREAT video. GREAT use of templates.
Good idea. When I make my saw horses I will make a provision for the work bench top. As for handling the top, I will put a couple of wheels on one end and a handle on the other (on the underside) to improve portability.
Hi Charlie, made a mini version of this at the weekend. Couple of maybe helpful things I learnt: 1. I got CLS 4x2 but it was far too wide for the horses, so had to plane it myself, not sure if the saw horse design has changed or my 4x2 was non standard! 2. As I have got limited storage space I used button-fix to fix the worktop to the CLS, so this means I can totally dismantle it but it’s solid when constructed! Many thanks for the tips, learn from most of ur vids! 😃
Hi Simon, thanks for letting me know and sorry to hear about that. I guess it varies depending on supplier. I've bought it from 2 (Homebase and my local builders merchant) and didn't have a problem with it. It's not the saw horse design changing because I bought two new Stanleys recently and they fitted fine. Glad to hear you managed to improvise and hope the new work bench is making a difference.
I cut the 3m CLS in half to give 2 x 1.5m lengths that fit easily into my shed. Rather than one sheet of 4 x 8 ply I have three 1/4 sheets of OSB that can be configured as 2 landscape or 3 portrait as needed. Again easier to store and take to work site. The 4th 1/4 is a sacrificial board for track saw. Guide rail grip strips on the CLS or a couple of clamps keeps it all steady.
Excellent idea, maybe leave the timbers raised by about 5-10mm so you have allowance for circular saw, plunge saw cuts, Id leave the top off, like you say a bit heavy cumbersome
Of course I will hit the like button and subscribe you have just solved my workbench problem. I had just bought the Stanley saw horses and was using them for door top work bench and needed something better. Your video is perfect thanks for sharing. I think I will wrap the top with 2 x 4s so I can add a vice somewhere. Thanks again very much.
Thanks John. There are 4 other videos in the series - you'll find links to them in the Description below the video. It's been truly game changing. Well worth putting a protective hardwood or metal edge around the side, and it's quite heavy to lug around so it's a good idea to try and hinge it if you can be bothered 👍🏻
The 2x4's and saw horses are not made to metric standards if they are for the north american market. You might want to use MDO plywood for the top because it is used for highway signs so it is great for this use. Great idea with the cut outs.LIKED and subscribed.
My partner made this this weekend!! Wanted to send a photo but couldn't attach one :) We are embarking in home made built in wardrobes for 3 bedrooms and your videos are fantastic and so easy to follow. Thanks for being awesome.
Thanks Charlie, I think I would attempt to build one. I am contemplating though, instead of screwing the top to the 2x4s', I would attempt to use large dowels, with the hope that I could easily disassemble it for storage.
There's a whole series on the upgrades I did to this - check out the links in the Description. I actually put a hard wood trim around the side which I massively recommend.
Hey Charlie, great idea!! used it in a smaller version, (very small shop), and recently made a router table using the same principal. Both store pretty flat and are perfect for my limited space. Keep up the good work, Phil
Great idea! I've been brainstorming for a workbench that won't take up a lot of room when it isn't being used. Coincidentally, I have a set of these sawhorses in the garage, too! The cutouts in the timbers to make it more stable is brilliant. Thanks!
Very nice project. I made a similar board based work bench, I just did not need one as long. Loved the dog coming into the video. We all need our four-legged friends too. -Deril
Agreed. Best to put banding strips on though like I did here ruclips.net/video/GJLf0fJsask/видео.html as otherwise the edge gets quickly damaged particularly if you use ply
Well done mate - chuffed to hear that! If you've made it out of ply like mine (or MDF for that matter) you might want to add some hard wood beading around the edge just to stop it getting damaged when you store it.
Trim off about 15mm on the length of the bottom supports lighten it up. Maybe some lightening holes. 1/2 inch, 12mm top. It's plenty strong. Chamfer the notches, make it a little easier to disassemble. Done the same thing with my portable Compound saw. Light is right
This is a great idea, I set my shop up with a 4x8 on some saw horses made out of adjustable thin metal from Harbor Freight, and its rickety to say the least. I'll have to try something similar like this to make it more rigid.
I know this was done 4 years ago and I have yet to watch the rest of this series but to carry the "bench" around do you consider cutting out a hand-hold around the point of balance to make it easier to pick the sheet up and move it? To cut down on the weight a little you could lop a bit off each end (you got the screw holes already aligned) because a full 2400 x 1200 sheet will support itself when hanging over the end(s) of the portable bench. Finally, it's really nice to hear them called 4 x 2 and not the weird 2 x 4 of a certain country that says the measurements backwards. 🙄👍
Thanks Barry - massively agree with you on the edging - it's very vulnerable and the layers of ply have snagged apart a couple of times already. I'm actually going to do a dramatic revamp of it at some point (taking some weight out of it, making it fold up for storage and incorporating the parf guide system. I'll send you the link when it's done!
When using 18mm external ply outside, I treat the edges with waterproof PVA glue. Which stabilizes the edges and lets you sand it to a smooth finish once it has been left a while to get really hard.
Hi Charlie, an excellent idea. I liked, so just subscribed. I too have Stanley plastic saw horses (junior smaller version) and had thought of doing something similar with CLS stud timber. I had previously made a MFT top using Parf sticks but didn't want to 'cough up' the full asking for Festool's MFT table - expensive and not that stable. Eventually I built small top frames (640 x 90 x 62mm) to fit on and around top of each saw horse. These are sturdy, compact and not as deep using 44x34mm timber screwed and glued. I added a 18mm ply top for strength. I found Stanley angle to be 10 degrees and profile cut timber frame to fit. My MDF diy MFT top now sits on top. For rigidity I screwed same timber (44x34) underside of MFT perimeter. NB just screwed not glued as easier to replace with new MFT top if damaged/worn out. I can get away using thinner wood as standard top is smaller/lighter at 1102 x 718mm. Removable diy MFT top is now 62mm thick, has a recess of 44mm (cube 44 x 1034 x 650) and is easier to carry using one side frame. One saw horse and two diy saw horse top frames now store inside recess, when wall hung for storage (an elastic bungee cord stops stored parts falling out). Assembled table rigidity is achieved via two M8 50mm stainless steel cap head bolts fitted through each end edge of MFT frame into the 640mm side of saw horse top frame. Pretty quick to power screw on/off. Used with bench dogs and a track saw it's similar to a Festool MFT but stronger and cheaper. For an upgrade I'm planning to bolt 2 aluminium side beams - using Bosch Rexroth extruded engineering section, available from KJN Automation (60 x 30mm with 6 separate 8mm tracks). Each side/edge frame will weigh 1.65 kg and cost circa £19 but give massive rigidity as well as precision clamping, jigging, fence and saw stop cross cut capabilities. I could have lightened top further by replacing timber (44×34) with alu frame but I had wood to hand when I built top and buying in say 40mm sq aluminium tube would have upped cost and been more fiddly to fit (eg rivnuts and countersunk bolts) than using simple long woodscrews - which I had to hand. Plywood too might have been a tad lighter than 18mm MDF - but in this size it's not too heavy to handle fairly easily.
Good idea I am wanting to make a large workbench for my workshop but its handy to have one so I can collapse it when I dont need it through midst of Winter when its bleeding cold in workshop
This video es perfect for what i was looking for a good, simple, and not expensive work bench, I will get the material and start this week. Congratulation for your idea .I live in Panama and I make small wood work and home. By the way..... I suppose , the wood on the top is 244x122 mm. and you cut it ??. Carlos
Hi Carlos - wow - all the way from Panama! Can't thank you enough for taking the time to comment!! It's actually 2440 x 900mm and I could probably have made it a touch narrower - maybe 800mm but it gives you a really good base for cutting full size sheets of MDF. Stay tuned - I'll be posting a video some time soon upgrading the work bench, and I've also got a fab new tool - a hand held circular saw that you can cut full size sheets of ply and mdf with on the work bench. Good luck with all your DIY projects!!
Charlie, Thanks a lot for your reply. I think, this weekend I will finish, it is a good idea to use a sheets of MDF. With this workbench , I will have the opportunity to work a lo in the wood. Thanks again Carlos
Another great video Charlie. As ever I did a search and this came up right away with everything I needed to know. Was getting sick of my stanley saw horses wobbling away! Your an Ace DIY-ter pilot old chum!
Thanks. Take a look at the other videos in this series (links to them in the Description). You'll probably want to cut it in half to make it portable and whilst you'll see I hinged mine, you could just screw it together when required.
@@CharlieDIYte Hi Charlie. Yes went through the entire series for this project. B&Q did not have any plywood so went with OSB 3 Board (length 1.2m). It worked out easy to get a 2.4m c16 cls timber. Thanks again ♡
Thanks 👍 Worth chopping it in two and getting two pairs of saw horses just to make it a bit more manoeuvrable, but I don't know what I'd do without it!
Another great video. I'm trying to get into DIY in retirement, having had to drop woodwork in school. ;-) I've always tried to do stuff around the house, and do "OK", but the results sometimes leave a lot of rough edges. This is going to be my first project. Your channel is proving to be a good education for me - thanks!
Thank you I just bought them i got tired of working on top of a pail. Too dangerous. It's my first time doing a project. I'm building a cat house for the strays. I am determined to finished it but i can't if I'm working top of a pail. So this helps a lot thank you so much for sharing your knowledge
Kudos for caring for the kitties. NO pails or un-secure "workbenches" please. Those cats need you. I, who shoulda known better took a shortcut like that (also place my hand perilously close to the saw while I was sawing...) and am now typing with my right hand only, taking antibiotics 4x a day and hoping everything heals by the time they finally take out the stitches next-next week. I plan to get cut proof gloves and use a MUCH more Stable surface the next time I saw....
Great work Charlie. I remember one of my very first multi use knock off work mate. Used it for everything, modded it for joinery work like for doors. In the end it made a nice spot board for when plastering!
I'm in the US and made my workbench on the same sawhorses for permanent use in my shed. Portability was not needed. That said, I did not notch my 2x4s because the top's back side and left end were butted against the shed wall. For the top, I used a sheet of 3/4" treated exterior plywood ripped down the center. I don't need such a wide table. I doubled the two halves on top of each other making the top 1.5" thick. No need for screws. It's immobile.
Would picking a lower height timber that sits flush or slightly proud to the stands have the same effect as the notching out and lowering if the thicker timber? Would make the process quicker
You mentioned the other video, which I saw just before this, but said that he didn't mention the 2x4 fits right in that slot. He did say it, even showed cutting the notches to make it flush just like you cut out. Great video though, about to make my own.
Good Video Charlie. Have always found these Stanley horses not strong enough but looks like you have made them very sturdy. Also like the shout out for moisture resistant MDF!! It’s the way forward!!!
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🛠Charlie DIYte Amazon Tool Store amzn.to/3fcLnY4 - all my tried, tested and much loved DIY tools. Help support me by Buying me a Coffee ☕ bit.ly/3xuQ3zb and unlock a host of benefits - thanks so much 🙏.
Made a small 3'x5' (900mm x 1500mm) bench with this design. Big enough for most of my jobs, strong enough for all my jobs, cheap enough to make me smile (even with today's eye-popping lumber prices).
Great work, nice and easy to move around too, at that size, and if you need anything longer you can just make another one 👍
I need to thank you Charlie . We moved house 2 months ago and every thing was shoved into the garage
The garden was just grass so the son in law got a turf cutter and got rid of it, we were left with clay soil and when it rained it was just a quagmire the rain would not soak away, so we thought we would have a good bit of decking and shingle. Well I could not move in the garage to do any work as I don't have a bench yet, and no room for one then I thought of you and your portable bench so I made one and just used a old piece of kitchen top for the work surface 4 ft long it is heavy enough not to move and now it is all done. It was a life saving idea so thanks again Charlie.
Watched this video before Christmas. Added these sawhorses to my Christmas present wish list. Received. I haven't done what is done in this video yet, but I've used them several times over the past week in building new garage shelves. 2x3's slot right in to the notches snugly, and with chipboard screwed to them, or 2400 2x3's used with 2 sheets of chipboard screwed on end to end, this has provided a great worktop and assembly bench. Once finished my work, easily and quickly dismantled, and the sawhorses take up very little space in the garage. Thanks Charlie. Already one of the most beneficial items in my garage workshop, and I see so much more that they are going to benefit with overtime, both inside and outside!! Simple, but superbly effective.
Eloquent, well spoken.
Knowledgeable.
What's not to like.
Subbed.
Yey, thanks David - I really appreciate the sub!!
@@CharlieDIYte It's very nice not to have a yankee murrican accent drawling and rasping at me.
I don't know how many videos I've looked at saying yeah that looks descent, I'll make that one! But this... THIS..... this is the one! Simple, portable and above all this novice can make it with the tools I have! Nice one Charlie!
Cheers mate. Yes it's been a game changer. Don't know what I'd do without it. Good luck with the build. You won't regret it. Also, check out the other videos in the series as it makes it much easier to transport if you cut it in half.
@@CharlieDIYte Thanks. 👍
Charlie, you are a star, just what I needed! I have been looking to buy saw horses that are light weight and could convert to a site table, and before I clicked ‘buy’ I thought let me see if someone has done this on RUclips and voila! there you were, with your ever amazing ideas, through explanations that leaves one well and truly informed. Thank you Charlie
You're very welcome - thanks for taking the time to pen that!! Yes I honestly don't know what I'd do without my work table now and I don't know whether you've chanced upon the playlist, but I've done a few upgrades to this bench now, including this one ruclips.net/video/PTN3EmLiYdg/видео.html Thanks again!
Charlie DIYte
Thanks Charlie, for some reason I had watched the ‘halving’ of the table before this one; very helpful. Got the pair of horses per your description on sale for £15 less! I’ve also got long heavy duty strap hinges ( not quite as bold as you are to customise that hinge) let me give it a try. Kind regards
Splendid video. I have those same sawhorses and have used them with 2x4 studs and plywood to make a temporary workbench many times. I noted the same "rocking" you mentioned but it never occurred to me to lower the point of side-to-side force and thereby reducing the leverage the top-heavy bench has on the structure. Brilliant. My needs are lighter, so I am going to use one-half-inch plywood, just to save some weight. I am making mine today and after that is done I am going to spend time watching other videos you have posted. Thanks again.
Charlie a wonderfully simple and practical solution for a DIY adhoc work bench. Great video, many thanks for sharing.
Thanks Paul. I couldn't manage without it. There are a few other videos in the series, if you're interested. It was a big lump to lug around so I hinged it and also drilled an MDT top into it. 👍🏻
I think this is the best project to begin in woodworking, thanks!
Thanks! I agree, it's been SO useful!
I'm 6'3" so I substituted the 2x4s with 2x6s, located the top of the notches at the center of the boards which raised my work top 3 inches and it's just as sturdy.
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وشخصيتك وأسلوبك في التقديم والشرح ووجهك وابتسامتك كله رائع جدا جدا جدا
شكرا جزيلا
What a brilliant simple no nonsense video. Love it
Yey! Thanks Marc. I've got a couple of upgrades to it so stay tuned but can't recommend this bench highly enough. I don't know what I'd do without it now!!
Best thing I’ve EVER built. I made mine slightly smaller and it’s a amazing.
Cheers Charlie.
I agree. Don't know what I'd do without it!
I own one of these saw horses and today I finished making this exact thing. Many thanks for your video series on this. Mine will most likely stay in the garage all the time so it's unlikely I'll do any of the further steps but I'm very grateful to have workbench after all these years.
Great work and thanks so much for getting in touch. Chuffed you've made yours as mine has been an absolute game changer. 👊
I really like your videos. You explain things nicely. I'm VERY new to woodworking so your videos come in really handy. Sometimes I'm not 100% sure why something gets done, but then you explain why and who and when so nicely. Thank you. Keep up the good work. You are making a difference in people's lives
Aw, Verna, what a lovely comment - massive thanks for that! You're very welcome. I guess I've always got really annoyed by those instructions you get with things you've bought that are just rubbish, and you wonder why as it's so easy to explain to people clearly what they need to do, so that's why RUclips is such a great platform because I can finally do things my way!
I made one 2 x 1m as a temporary work bench last year. Its been a lifesaver and I can pack it away in the roof space of my garage. I added a couple of rows of bench dog holes for extra versatility and so I could use it as a track saw station. Works really well. The Stanley saw horse are currently (13/03/2020) on offer in Screwfix £20 a pair so about 30% saving.
£20 a pair again from screwfix on 14.08.21
Well done Charlie; you explained in much better detail than I did in my silent film, bravo mate. I like your method of getting the precise angle to increase stability. - Steve
SA Bjork Thanks Steve - that's very magnanimous of you! I think yours is much easier to carry around than my monster, although I have a few upgrades planned to make it lighter and more portable. I'll drop you a link when it's done. Thanks again.
Thats all true but your accompanying music was brilliant - ‘Fiddlers Waltz’
Yes I do the same thing and have done for years, except I don't cut the angles which as you so rightly state gives it very good stability. The reason being that it allows me to reuse the 4" X 2" CLS on other projects. It is less stable this way, but I get by. Thanks for the video, most helpful.
"I used my Irwin handsaw for this cut.... I used my Irwin floorboard saw for that cut" reminds me of the Blue Hawk adverts from the previous century - so eager to display the products! As a retired professional tradesperson though, I recommend Charlie's channel to all youngsters who ask me for advice on how to do stuff around the house!
Thanks, I appreciate that. On the Irwin point, sorry if it comes across as a bit salesy but I'm just saying what I'm using so people can look it up.
Made this in smaller form, using pre-cut 4 ft 2X4" pieces and a 4X2 ft "project panel" topper from Home Depot, who also carries the Stanley sawhorses in this video. I was going to get a Workmate 425, but this works fine for me and saved me some money, too. Cost about $60 as of 7/7/21. Thanks, Charlie.
Great work. I couldn't manage without mine. Worth putting a protective strip around the side if necessary. That's in the next video in this series 👍🏻
I work in the yard and it makes a great surface for all of my tools. I like it.
I made a worktop using 2 x 3" planks (8 foot length) and 2 project boards of 30 x 48". I simply fixed the project boards to the planks using wood screws to make an 8 foot by 30 inch worksurface, which I simply seat onto the sawhorses for an amazing DIY'er workbench. It's sturdy enough for the at-home projects that I've been doing, though admittedly no where near up to the standard demonstrated here. But for home diy jobs, it's been great. When I'm done the worktop removes easily for storing away. I plan to put some cross supports to up the strength and stability of the worktop since I'll be moving the it around over time as I take it in and out of storage. Thanks for the inspiration!
Good work, George. Yes, that sounds like an excellent work around. Bottom line, we all need temporary work tops for our DIY projects, howsoever we make them 👍
Great job! You could put some hinges on the 2x4s and make it folding and you could store the legs inside the folded table???
Just a suggestion for all you DIY'ers, the 2x4 supports under the short end of your worktop will work best if they are set back 6" to 9" just like the side overhangs which will allow for clamping ease around the whole circumference of the Sacrificial worktop. 2"-3" is all you really need, but I like a few more inches so I can drill 3/4" Dog Holes As Needed To Allow For Clamps and Stuff. Check out Kreg or Armor Dog Clamps
I agree Glenn, and this is what I did when I modified it ruclips.net/video/PTN3EmLiYdg/видео.html
Perfectly reasonable, practical design. Kudos.
Thanks!
Built my own workbench this weekend using this idea. Used mdf rather than ply. Now means I've got a nice big work space that was cheap, easy and fun to build. Only downside is the weight.
Great work Mark. Now you just need to do this to it ruclips.net/video/PTN3EmLiYdg/видео.html
Fantastic idea. I have a couple of these not doing anything and I need a cheap workbench. Thanks so much.
Go for it Simon. It's been a game changer
Hey Charlie - another thanks for this awesome video - with your help I built a similar workbench that I am absolutely delighted with!
Thanks John. Really glad you found it useful. Check out the other vids in the series of you haven't already. I found it a bit big to lug around in one piece so cutting it in half and buying a couple of extra saw horses is worth doing, even if you don't hinge them. 👍🏻
Hi just ordered the set. I'm going to have a few different tops. Router, saw, general and MFT in sizes to suit, but generally small.
Great plan, Bill! 👍
You're awesome, Charlie. I've been pondering over this for a while but now my workbench problem is solved! Thanks so much ♡
Aw, thanks Hannah. Have you seen the other videos in the series. There's a link to them in the Description below the video 🙏👍🏻
@@CharlieDIYte yes I have watched a LOT of your vids. They are so clear and helpful. I'm renovating my house and have acquired so many skills, thanks to you 🙏
Thank you so very much for this video. I purchased these same Stanley saw horses back in January 2020 but haven't used them yet because I couldn't figure out how to make and secure a work table top onto them. I can't wait to try this out on Saturday.
Thanks Jody. There's a playlist of the videos I put together for this. ruclips.net/p/PLyai2ugIzdZXJ1nnlk9art1fbWIhV-Zt_ I don't know what I'd do without this work bench now.
27 years in the trade and why have I not done this before.?!
I will be doing now, cheers.
James S Flattered that I've been able to show you a new tip James! I've bought the UKJ Parf Guide system but just need to get round to installing it. A bit expensive but it'll transform it!
Charlie DIYte
A true tradesperson never stops learning. I’m sure your the same 👍🏼
Made this over the weekend, but a good bit smaller. It's fantastic and stores neatly in my tiny shed! Thanks!
Glad to hear it Stephen. Great work, you won't regret it!
Charlie, well thought out and excellent instruction. Clear enough even for me! I own a set
of those plastic saw horses that have the notches.
Thanks for sharing.
You're welcome, thanks for the comment. There are a few more videos in this series that you can access links to in the Description below the video 👍🏻
I recently organised my shed, and made another work bench.
I simple used 2 metal trestles an put a piece of worktop on it.
Sorted!
Good stuff! Say, if you glue the top to the 2 x 4 ‘s (American slang) instead of screwing it, then you eliminate the risk of ruining a blade or router bit through a miscalculation that brings it in contact with the screws. In addition, without screws, you can intentionally cut through the workpiece, and into the top, to make smoother, safer cuts. The beauty of a sacrificial top cannot be overstated. Wood filler, wallboard mud, and auto body filler all come in gallon cans. Cheers mate. GREAT video. GREAT use of templates.
Good idea. When I make my saw horses I will make a provision for the work bench top. As for handling the top, I will put a couple of wheels on one end and a handle on the other (on the underside) to improve portability.
Great ideas - I like the simplicity but also the effectiveness and potential of the bench.
Hi Charlie, made a mini version of this at the weekend. Couple of maybe helpful things I learnt: 1. I got CLS 4x2 but it was far too wide for the horses, so had to plane it myself, not sure if the saw horse design has changed or my 4x2 was non standard! 2. As I have got limited storage space I used button-fix to fix the worktop to the CLS, so this means I can totally dismantle it but it’s solid when constructed! Many thanks for the tips, learn from most of ur vids! 😃
Hi Simon, thanks for letting me know and sorry to hear about that. I guess it varies depending on supplier. I've bought it from 2 (Homebase and my local builders merchant) and didn't have a problem with it. It's not the saw horse design changing because I bought two new Stanleys recently and they fitted fine. Glad to hear you managed to improvise and hope the new work bench is making a difference.
Charlie DIYte yea it’s great, making a huge difference!
I cut the 3m CLS in half to give 2 x 1.5m lengths that fit easily into my shed. Rather than one sheet of 4 x 8 ply I have three 1/4 sheets of OSB that can be configured as 2 landscape or 3 portrait as needed. Again easier to store and take to work site. The 4th 1/4 is a sacrificial board for track saw. Guide rail grip strips on the CLS or a couple of clamps keeps it all steady.
Nice work bench. I made one like this but used two 2x3 & 7/16 chipboard to make it lighter.
Thanks mate. Yes that would work well. 👍
Well explained. Brilliant video. Thank you for doing it.
You're welcome. There are a few others to watch in this series. You'll find links to them in the video Description. 👍
Brilliant design and crisp video. Thanks
Bakthavathsal Kadambi Thanks!
Excellent idea, maybe leave the timbers raised by about 5-10mm so you have allowance for circular saw, plunge saw cuts, Id leave the top off, like you say a bit heavy cumbersome
Of course I will hit the like button and subscribe you have just solved my workbench problem. I had just bought the Stanley saw horses and was using them for door top work bench and needed something better. Your video is perfect thanks for sharing. I think I will wrap the top with 2 x 4s so I can add a vice somewhere. Thanks again very much.
Thanks John. There are 4 other videos in the series - you'll find links to them in the Description below the video. It's been truly game changing. Well worth putting a protective hardwood or metal edge around the side, and it's quite heavy to lug around so it's a good idea to try and hinge it if you can be bothered 👍🏻
The Gordon Ramsey of carpentry LOL. All in jest, mate. Love the idea!😁
Ha, you're not the first to say that Michael 😉 There are a few more vids in the series. Links in the Description below the vid 👊
Great idea! I have some leftover painted plywood from another project, and now I know what to do with it!
Michael Gross Thanks Michael!
Excellent! Buying work saw horses like this today.
Your dog is lovely!
The 2x4's and saw horses are not made to metric standards if they are for the north american market. You might want to use MDO plywood for the top because it is used for highway signs so it is great for this use. Great idea with the cut outs.LIKED and subscribed.
My partner made this this weekend!! Wanted to send a photo but couldn't attach one :)
We are embarking in home made built in wardrobes for 3 bedrooms and your videos are fantastic and so easy to follow. Thanks for being awesome.
Thanks so much Belinda for taking the time to comment! Do please send me a picture - to charliediyte@gmail.com, or on my Facebook page /charliediyte
Once again, hi from South Africa, love your videos, you really explain things well, take care
Thanks Val - feel humbled that you're watching from SA!
Thanks for the idea, I gave my saw horses away because of the instability.
I suppose i will buy new ones and try this.
Thanks Charlie, I think I would attempt to build one. I am contemplating though, instead of screwing the top to the 2x4s', I would attempt to use large dowels, with the hope that I could easily disassemble it for storage.
GReat idea, gonna make one of those. You can seal the edges with some SBR or waterproof wood glue.
There's a whole series on the upgrades I did to this - check out the links in the Description. I actually put a hard wood trim around the side which I massively recommend.
Hey Charlie, great idea!! used it in a smaller version, (very small shop), and recently made a router table using the same principal. Both store pretty flat and are perfect for my limited space. Keep up the good work, Phil
Great idea! I've been brainstorming for a workbench that won't take up a lot of room when it isn't being used. Coincidentally, I have a set of these sawhorses in the garage, too! The cutouts in the timbers to make it more stable is brilliant. Thanks!
Thanks buddy. Have you checked out the other videos in this series? There's a link to them in the Description below the video 👍🏻
Very nice project. I made a similar board based work bench, I just did not need one as long. Loved the dog coming into the video. We all need our four-legged friends too. -Deril
Thank you for that extremely handy tip/advice on making a descent sized workbench.
You're welcome 👍
Excellent. Worth sealing the deges a few times.
Agreed. Best to put banding strips on though like I did here ruclips.net/video/GJLf0fJsask/видео.html as otherwise the edge gets quickly damaged particularly if you use ply
@@CharlieDIYte Saw it, great.
Excellent video, clear instructions, just finished making a copy and I'm rather pleased with the result. Thank you!
Well done mate - chuffed to hear that! If you've made it out of ply like mine (or MDF for that matter) you might want to add some hard wood beading around the edge just to stop it getting damaged when you store it.
very good. love thinking outside of the box ideas
Trim off about 15mm on the length of the bottom supports lighten it up. Maybe some lightening holes. 1/2 inch, 12mm top. It's plenty strong. Chamfer the notches, make it a little easier to disassemble. Done the same thing with my portable Compound saw. Light is right
This is a great idea, I set my shop up with a 4x8 on some saw horses made out of adjustable thin metal from Harbor Freight, and its rickety to say the least. I'll have to try something similar like this to make it more rigid.
I know this was done 4 years ago and I have yet to watch the rest of this series but to carry the "bench" around do you consider cutting out a hand-hold around the point of balance to make it easier to pick the sheet up and move it?
To cut down on the weight a little you could lop a bit off each end (you got the screw holes already aligned) because a full 2400 x 1200 sheet will support itself when hanging over the end(s) of the portable bench.
Finally, it's really nice to hear them called 4 x 2 and not the weird 2 x 4 of a certain country that says the measurements backwards. 🙄👍
Neat idea. Suggest fitting a strip edging to extend the life of it and a coat of varnish?
Thanks Barry - massively agree with you on the edging - it's very vulnerable and the layers of ply have snagged apart a couple of times already. I'm actually going to do a dramatic revamp of it at some point (taking some weight out of it, making it fold up for storage and incorporating the parf guide system. I'll send you the link when it's done!
Look forward to seeing this! Am about to make a worktop like the one in your video - a way to make a foldable would be a great bonus.
YOU CAN MARINE GRADE WOOD TO BUILD THIS BROTHER
@@CharlieDIYte did you do an upgrade vid ever Charlie?
Ignore this question - just found the upgrade/folding bench vid. Awesome cheers chap!
When using 18mm external ply outside, I treat the edges with waterproof PVA glue. Which stabilizes the edges and lets you sand it to a smooth finish once it has been left a while to get really hard.
Good video Charlie and very practical and can be made on a budget cheers
I like the design. Going to use a multi-tool for the cut.
Might not get a very straight cut with that 🤔
That’s a great idea 💡 could be used as a paste table for decorating too excellent
Yes it would be great for that 👍🏻
Hi Charlie, an excellent idea. I liked, so just subscribed. I too have Stanley plastic saw horses (junior smaller version) and had thought of doing something similar with CLS stud timber.
I had previously made a MFT top using Parf sticks but didn't want to 'cough up' the full asking for Festool's MFT table - expensive and not that stable. Eventually I built small top frames (640 x 90 x 62mm) to fit on and around top of each saw horse. These are sturdy, compact and not as deep using 44x34mm timber screwed and glued. I added a 18mm ply top for strength. I found Stanley angle to be 10 degrees and profile cut timber frame to fit. My MDF diy MFT top now sits on top.
For rigidity I screwed same timber (44x34) underside of MFT perimeter. NB just screwed not glued as easier to replace with new MFT top if damaged/worn out. I can get away using thinner wood as standard top is smaller/lighter at 1102 x 718mm. Removable diy MFT top is now 62mm thick, has a recess of 44mm (cube 44 x 1034 x 650) and is easier to carry using one side frame. One saw horse and two diy saw horse top frames now store inside recess, when wall hung for storage (an elastic bungee cord stops stored parts falling out). Assembled table rigidity is achieved via two M8 50mm stainless steel cap head bolts fitted through each end edge of MFT frame into the 640mm side of saw horse top frame. Pretty quick to power screw on/off. Used with bench dogs and a track saw it's similar to a Festool MFT but stronger and cheaper.
For an upgrade I'm planning to bolt 2 aluminium side beams - using Bosch Rexroth extruded engineering section, available from KJN Automation (60 x 30mm with 6 separate 8mm tracks). Each side/edge frame will weigh 1.65 kg and cost circa £19 but give massive rigidity as well as precision clamping, jigging, fence and saw stop cross cut capabilities.
I could have lightened top further by replacing timber (44×34) with alu frame but I had wood to hand when I built top and buying in say 40mm sq aluminium tube would have upped cost and been more fiddly to fit (eg rivnuts and countersunk bolts) than using simple long woodscrews - which I had to hand. Plywood too might have been a tad lighter than 18mm MDF - but in this size it's not too heavy to handle fairly easily.
Good idea I am wanting to make a large workbench for my workshop but its handy to have one so I can collapse it when I dont need it through midst of Winter when its bleeding cold in workshop
Chris 101 Cheers Chris. You could put a couple of brackets on the wall to store it when it's not in use.
This video es perfect for what i was looking for a good, simple, and not expensive work bench, I will get the material and start this week. Congratulation for your idea .I live in Panama and I make small wood work and home. By the way..... I suppose , the wood on the top is 244x122 mm. and you cut it ??. Carlos
Hi Carlos - wow - all the way from Panama! Can't thank you enough for taking the time to comment!! It's actually 2440 x 900mm and I could probably have made it a touch narrower - maybe 800mm but it gives you a really good base for cutting full size sheets of MDF. Stay tuned - I'll be posting a video some time soon upgrading the work bench, and I've also got a fab new tool - a hand held circular saw that you can cut full size sheets of ply and mdf with on the work bench. Good luck with all your DIY projects!!
Charlie, Thanks a lot for your reply. I think, this weekend I will finish, it is a good idea to use a sheets of MDF. With this workbench , I will have the opportunity to work a lo in the wood. Thanks again Carlos
Another great video Charlie. As ever I did a search and this came up right away with everything I needed to know. Was getting sick of my stanley saw horses wobbling away! Your an Ace DIY-ter pilot old chum!
Thanks Richard. 👊 There are a few videos in the series. You can find links to them in the Description below the vid.
I have the exact same sawhorses! This is great for me!
Do it Marco, it's been a game changer for me!
Well done Charlie !
Very useful, I will make the notched timber and carry them in the van to make the horses stable but I don't think I need the ply top.
Brilliant. I have been looking for a way to make these more stable when using. Perfect. Thanks for sharing.
Keith Cotterill You're welcome Keith - thanks for the comment!
Fantastic work. Buying some Sawhorses so would buy two pairs and try this. Thanks.
Thanks. Take a look at the other videos in this series (links to them in the Description). You'll probably want to cut it in half to make it portable and whilst you'll see I hinged mine, you could just screw it together when required.
@@CharlieDIYte Hi Charlie. Yes went through the entire series for this project. B&Q did not have any plywood so went with OSB 3 Board (length 1.2m). It worked out easy to get a 2.4m c16 cls timber. Thanks again ♡
Good man. Exactly what I needed
Thanks 👍 Worth chopping it in two and getting two pairs of saw horses just to make it a bit more manoeuvrable, but I don't know what I'd do without it!
A well done video excellent instructions. Thanks.
Great job. I'll likely do something similar in my garage.
Love it. Will try to make one. I really need this.
Another great video. I'm trying to get into DIY in retirement, having had to drop woodwork in school. ;-) I've always tried to do stuff around the house, and do "OK", but the results sometimes leave a lot of rough edges. This is going to be my first project. Your channel is proving to be a good education for me - thanks!
Forgot to say, the links to the tools are much appreciated. Now I can just add to my Christmas gift list. ;-)
Thank you I just bought them i got tired of working on top of a pail. Too dangerous. It's my first time doing a project. I'm building a cat house for the strays. I am determined to finished it but i can't if I'm working top of a pail. So this helps a lot thank you so much for sharing your knowledge
Kudos for caring for the kitties. NO pails or un-secure "workbenches" please. Those cats need you. I, who shoulda known better took a shortcut like that (also place my hand perilously close to the saw while I was sawing...) and am now typing with my right hand only, taking antibiotics 4x a day and hoping everything heals by the time they finally take out the stitches next-next week. I plan to get cut proof gloves and use a MUCH more Stable surface the next time I saw....
Great design, I think I'll try one, Greg.
Brilliant just what I needed
Thanks. Love mine. Use it all the time!
That’s very good I might make one of those thanks
Tony
Do it Tony. I simply don't know how I'd manage without this bench now. 👍
EXCEPCIONAL ...FENOMENAL ...PARABÉNS MEU AMIGO ..JAÚ SP.BRASIL
Glad you found it useful 👍
Great work Charlie. I remember one of my very first multi use knock off work mate. Used it for everything, modded it for joinery work like for doors. In the end it made a nice spot board for when plastering!
I'm in the US and made my workbench on the same sawhorses for permanent use in my shed. Portability was not needed. That said, I did not notch my 2x4s because the top's back side and left end were butted against the shed wall. For the top, I used a sheet of 3/4" treated exterior plywood ripped down the center. I don't need such a wide table. I doubled the two halves on top of each other making the top 1.5" thick. No need for screws. It's immobile.
EXCELLENT WORK !!
Thanks 👍
Well done! Encouraging and enlightening!
Tidy work, subscribed.
Thanks 👍
Would picking a lower height timber that sits flush or slightly proud to the stands have the same effect as the notching out and lowering if the thicker timber? Would make the process quicker
Brilliant. Thanks for sharing.
You mentioned the other video, which I saw just before this, but said that he didn't mention the 2x4 fits right in that slot. He did say it, even showed cutting the notches to make it flush just like you cut out.
Great video though, about to make my own.
What's that, Ryan? The timber has to be CLS to fit in the grooves, if that's what you meant. Good luck with the build 👍
Great idea. Love it.
Thanks for posting you gave me a good idea
You're welcome. Thanks for the comment. 👍
Good Video Charlie. Have always found these Stanley horses not strong enough but looks like you have made them very sturdy.
Also like the shout out for moisture resistant MDF!! It’s the way forward!!!
Oliver Smith Thanks Oliver. Yes, I need to use moisture resistant MDF more often!