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    Mini Workbench Works Wonders

    This benchtop model has all the features of a full-size bench.

    Author Headshot By Steve Latta #244–Tools & Shops 2015 Issue
    Mini Workbench Works Wonders

    Synopsis: This mini bench by Steve Latta puts your work at a comfortable height for use with small power tools, hand tools, all kinds of joinery, and detail work. Clamped to the top of a regular workbench, it is the perfect length for most furniture parts. It has a vise on one end, and a row of dog holes for holding parts. There’s plenty of clearance below for clamps. The top rests on two strong I-beam legs. The legs are mounted flush with one side of the top so that you can clamp work to the side of the bench. Each leg assembly is mortised on the flush side so that the bench can be clamped to the top of your regular workbench. The leg closest to the vise has a clearance hole to make way for the vise hardware.


    If necessity is the mother of invention, then my…

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    Comments

    1. user-54930 | Oct 22, 2016 08:55am | #1

      I built this some time ago and it is a great addition to the shop. Being able to have detail work at a height where you don't have to bend over is really helpful, especially if the work takes a fair amount of time. The bench doesn't take up much space, but it's easy to move if you need to do so.

    2. User avater
      ChipSawdust | Jul 18, 2019 10:37pm | #2

      I built this earlier this year and wonder why I didn’t think of it myself :)

      I love using it.

    3. graymo | Aug 31, 2020 05:52am | #3

      I also built one when this article was first published. For us older guys this is great for the back and great for the eyes; especially if you're wearing varifocal glasses, this arrangement helps you get your work in the right part of the lenses for the best close-up view.

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