Folding Sawhorses – Compact Strength for the Mobile Shop

Article 91: Folding Sawhorses – Compact Strength for the Mobile Shop

By: A Woodworker Who Needs His Bench Wherever He Goes

Folding sawhorses are a game changer when space is tight or your shop moves with the seasons. These are simple, strong, and collapse flat.

Materials

• 2×4 lumber:

  • (4) legs @ 30"

  • (2) top rails @ 36"

  • (4) lower braces @ 16"

• 1/4" × 2" carriage bolts (4)

• Nylon lock nuts and washers

• Wood screws (1-1/2")

• Exterior wood glue (optional)

Tools Needed

• Circular saw

• Drill + bits

• Wrench or socket

• Clamps

• Measuring tape and square

Build Steps

1. Cut All Pieces to Length

   • Label each for easy assembly.

2. Assemble Legs

   • Pair legs into "X" frames, bolt together 6" from top. Use washers for movement.

3. Attach Top Rail

   • Screw top rail between top of "X" frames. Ensure square alignment.

4. Add Braces

   • Fasten lower braces diagonally to lock legs from splaying. Legs fold inward when braces are loosened or removed.

Sketch – Side View When Standing

  | \       / |
  |  \_____/  | ← Top rail (36")
  |  /     \  |
  | /       \ |
 /           \