Hey everyone! I'm hoping to build a portable workbench that I can carry on my back. It doesn't have to be huge—something around 60 by 30 cm would be ideal for tasks like planing, sawing, chiseling, and drilling. I'm aiming for it to weigh under 30 kg, preferably under 20 kg.
One thought I had was to make it lightweight and able to be weighed down with heavy items like rocks or branches, or maybe tie it down with ropes like a tent would. It doesn't need to fold; I'm fine with it coming apart using bolts.
I know this might sound a bit out there, but if it's possible to build something like this, I think it would be really cool!
3 Answers
A workmate could definitely fit your needs. You might have to get creative, like using a tree for additional support while planing. Look for the biggest workmate that meets your size criteria. You could even add an auxiliary top using an old desk or plywood!
You might want to consider a Japanese style workbench called a "tetsubako" if you're okay working from a lower position. There's also a lightweight portable Chinese workbench that you can find in Rex Krueger's YouTube videos. He shows how to make some awesome mobile workbenches, just keep in mind they’re not all super easy to carry by hand!
It sounds like you're looking to use this in natural areas? If so, how about starting with a large cutting board as your base? It would be lightweight and you can still do plenty of woodworking on it. What exactly are you planning to do with this workbench?
I want it to be usable in my apartment but also portable enough to take to the nearby woods.
I can’t find any workmates available where I live. I’ve been managing with an old wobbly table and using walls or trees as support.