Workbench Plans — Sized to Your Actual Lumber
A shop workbench is deceptively simple: a top, four legs, two long aprons, two short aprons, and a lower shelf. Every one of those parts depends on the real dimensions of the 2x4s and plywood you actually bought.
→ Open the workbench cut list template
Why the numbers on the plan are always wrong
A "2x4" is actually 1-1/2" × 3-1/2". Plywood labeled 3/4" is often 0.703" to 0.720". A workbench plan that assumes nominal dimensions produces a top that overhangs unevenly and aprons that don't sit flush with leg faces. The calculator uses your real measurements and re-derives every part in seconds.
Standard workbench cut list
- Top slab — full width × full depth of the bench (often a laminated plywood top)
- Legs — 4 pieces, height minus top thickness
- Long aprons — 2 pieces, (width − 2 × leg width)
- Short aprons — 2 pieces, (depth − 2 × leg width)
- Lower shelf — sits on lower stretchers, uses inner dimensions
Typical dimensions
- Height: 34"–36" (match your table saw for outfeed use)
- Width: 60"–96"
- Depth: 24"–30"
Related
Skip the math — try the free calculator
WoodCraft Utility Engine builds a live cut list from your real measured wood thickness, kerf, and cabinet dimensions. Imperial or metric, fractions or decimals.
Launch the cut list calculator →