Hiding in the Garage
with Jordan Frank
Amazing compact workbench
Welcome to my modest site, mainly a hosting spot for all things related to the Amazing Compact Mobile Workbench (ACMW), a little bench I designed and built in 2018 and wanted to share with the woodworking community. I am a hobbyist with a limited space (a garage that I have to park two vehicles in each night) so I needed a good bench with a small footprint for my tools. There are many out there, but this one might appeal to you if you have similar space issues. Even if you don't build it exactly the same it might give you some ideas for your own design. Please enjoy, and thanks for stopping by! - Jordan
Four-Part Youtube series
Check out the four-part series on YouTube to watch me build the bench and see what to do (and not to do). I learned most of what I know from YouTube, so I'm doing my best to return the favor.
ACMW plans v1.0.pdfcomplete build plans - free!
They might not be the best plans, but they're free plans!
Plans include materials and cut lists and make a surprisingly good doorstop when you're done with them. Click on the image to download and print copies for all your loved ones.
Drill Press Wall Stand.pdfFrench Cleat Tool Shelves.pdfF Clamp Rack for French Cleat.pdfMORE PLANS - STILL free!
A collection of plans (more like measurements) from my shop tour. My French-cleat tool shelves, my drill press wall stand and my "F" clamp rack for French cleats. All simple, easy to build, and I've done the measuring part for you.
My "Octopus"
Here are some photos of my finished bench that I lovingly refer to as "The Octopus" because I put an octopus sticker on it and have nothing better to do with my time. If you make one I'd love to see how it turns out and promise not to make fun of you if you name it.
CLASSIC STURDY WORKBENCH!
So the ol' Octopus is obviously for power tools, but if you're looking for a workbench for handtools or assembly then look no further than The Classic Sturdy Workbench! It's an incredibly sturdy Shaker-style workbench made entirely out of 2x4s and glue. I have added a plywood cabinet that gives you a large shelf and 8 drawers. Very customizable, you can add vises, paper-rolls, dog holes... anything you can think to make your workspace more useful. This is a life-time bench- done correctly this guy will be with you for generations!
TWO-Part Youtube series
Check out the two-part series on YouTube to watch me build the bench. In particular you'll enjoy watching me struggle to make the laminated top with a bunch of pretty bad 2x4s. Spoiler alert: I almost pull it off.
Classic Sturdy Bench plans v1.pdfcomplete build plans - free!
They might not be the best plans, but they're free plans!
Plans include materials and cut lists and make a surprisingly good doorstop when you're done with them. Click on the image to download and print copies for all your loved ones.