See how to easily add your 2×4 stretcher supports for the bench top and lower shelf, plus mount your casters and install the top and shelf.

This is Part 2 of this bench frame build series.
Enjoying this series?
It’s all about my workbench build
See all the posts in order
Video
Transcript highlights and images are below the video too!
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What You’ll Need for This Project
How To
Step-by-step on how I completed this workbench.
Prepare Stretchers (Cross Supports)
Getting everything square with your workbench frame build is so important.
To ensure all of my stretcher boards were exactly the same length, I used a stop-block on my mitre saw again, like I did for cutting the rails (in Part 1).
And then I put pocket holes in both ends.
Kreg Jig K3 and K4 Cheat Sheet and Tips
See how to create pocket holes
the easy way!
Settings chart and tips.
Install Top Stretchers (Cross Supports)
Flip your frame supports upside down.
Be sure the aprons are facing out!!
And dry fit your stretchers for the top (which are now on the floor).

Check Square
!!!!!!!!!!!!! This is the single most important part of the process!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Check square all over – and not just once, but between every corner you attach.

I used a Kreg right angle clamp and a regular clamp to hold the first corner once I got it square.
And then I put another clamp on the opposite corner to ensure nothing moved.
Do both ends and then the middle stretcher.
Keep checking square before you screw each time!
I can’t over-emphasize how important this is if you want your bench to go together dead square.
Install Bottom Stretchers

These are a little harder as you no longer have the floor for support.
And it’s even more important to check, and double check square before you screw because of it.
Install Casters
While you have your frame upside down, this would be a great time to install your casters.
How to Attach Casters
Get details on a great way to
attach casters to your workbench
to make it mobile.
Finished Frame
Flip your frame over.
It should look like this.

Cut Your Top and Lower Shelf
Take your final measurements for your lower shelf.
With the frame built this way, there is no need to cut notches around the legs for your lower shelf.
So it will be a square cut.
Safely Cut Plywood
See why I cut plywood on the floor
using foam boards underneath.
It’s super easy and safe.
And get this tip too!!

Circular Saw Cutting Guide
See how I made this straight edge cutting guide for my circular saw.
It’s cheap and easy to DIY.
Install Lower Shelf

I used brad nails to attach mine.
And I LOVE how easy my Ryobi brad nailer made this job!!!
Install Workbench Top

I used a nice piece of ¾” plywood with an oak top for my workbench.
And then I treated it with 2 coats of boiled linseed oil and then one coat of paste wax.
And no, oil and wax don’t get on anything I put on the top.
This is the finish that best suits how I’ll be using my workbench.
Best Workbench Top
Get tips on the
best workbench top
for your needs.
Covers material, attaching, and protecting.
All Done!
Now you have a super sturdy workbench!
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