Fold-Away Wall-Mounted Workbench

Article 155: Fold-Away Wall-Mounted Workbench

By: A Woodworker with a Small Shop and Big Ideas

This fold-down bench is ideal for garages, apartments, or crowded shops. It folds to under 5" thick when stowed, but opens up to a sturdy 24" × 48" surface.

Materials List

• ¾" plywood – 24" × 48" (top)

• 2×4s – frame and legs

• Piano hinge – 48"

• Latch or barrel bolt

• French cleat or lag bolts for mounting

• Wood glue, screws

Tools Required

• Circular saw or table saw

• Drill/driver

• Clamps

• Square

Steps

1. Build Frame

   • Build 2×4 frame around top. Attach legs hinged at bottom.

2. Wall Mount

   • Use French cleat or heavy lag bolts into studs.

3. Attach Top with Hinge

   • Piano hinge allows folding flat against wall.

4. Add Latch System

   • A barrel bolt locks the legs in place when open.

Sketch – Side View (Folded and Unfolded)

Unfolded:         Folded:
   _______        _______
  |       |      |       |
  | Top   |      |  Top  |
  |_______|      |_______|
     | |             |
     | |             | ← Legs folded up