Build a Basic Workbench with Built-in Storage

By Philip C. Lowe Sep 13, 2013

In this video workshop, Philip C. Lowe shows you step-by-step, how to build the very same workbench that has served him for over 40 years. Its relatively small size means a craftsman can reach a workpiece resting on its top from all four sides—but don’t let its small footprint fool you. Down below, this bench is packed with plenty of storage for your favorite tools.

Produced by: Ed Pirnik; Video by: Gary Junken; Editing by: Tom Olivares

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Videos in the Series

Build a Basic Workbench with Built-in Storage

September 13, 2013

Woodworking legend Philip Lowe shows off the signature elements of his decades-old bench.
Joinery Preparation

September 13, 2013

Learn the right way to mill the lumber for your bench and then lay out the joinery for the base.
Mortise-and-Tenon Joinery

September 13, 2013

Cut and fit the workbench's offset mortise-and-tenon joinery using a combination of power and hand tools.
Sliding Dovetail Partitions

September 13, 2013

Philip Lowe demonstrates how to cut smooth sliding dovetail joinery for the drawer and door dividers on his workbench.
Glue Up the Base

September 13, 2013

Learn how to custom fit the workbench’s plywood panels and drawer runners as the base is dry-fit and assembled.
Build the Benchtop

September 13, 2013

Glue up a flat and stable workbench top with enough dog holes to secure any workpiece.
Dovetailed Drawers

September 13, 2013

Philip Lowe shows how to cut the half-blind dovetails for the drawers of his workbench.
Build a Frame-and-Panel Door

September 13, 2013

Adding a solid, traditional frame-and-panel door wraps up Philip Lowe's basic workbench project.

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Watch our experts build a piece of furniture step-by-step on video and download a detailed project plan so you can build along.

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