Your garage workbench is the place where new projects and old refurbishings come to life. It is essential to have the right tools to do the job safely and efficiently.
There are many accessories for workbench that will simplify your project. It all depends on what type of project you are working with. There are however a few essentials we dont think you should skip when setting up a workbench. These accessories will give you a great platform to launch multiple types of projects, and you can also add more hardware to your toolbox.
Magnet Strips Or Hooks
Let’s start with the obvious. Where there is a workbench there will be tools. There will always be disorganization where there are tools. If there is one place where things should remain organized and uncluttered its in an area where tools and machinery are being used. A heavy-duty magnetic strip can solve this problem in an instant.
Simply let your hand tools self-adhere to the strip and pull them off when needed. Having a magnetic strip attached to the side or top frame of your bench gives you quick access to them and easily keeps them out of the way when not in use. Hooks can be used to attach a magnetic strip to the bench’s side if you are unable or unwilling to purchase one. Just be sure to install them in a way that they wont hinder your working position.
Measurement Tape
Tape measure is one of those items that seem to have their own pair of feet. They are often forgotten when measuring, but they hide in the bottom of your toolbox and resurface when they are not needed. They are, however, an integral part of making almost any project a success. For the most part, eyeballing measurements and fits just dont work.
An adhesive tape measure can be attached to your workbench to save you the hassle of running back and forth from where your portable one is. It also allows you to verify accuracy quickly and easily. You dont have to have an extra pair of hands to use it and it will be straight with every single measurement without slipping around.
A steel measuring tape can be applied flat to the top edge or along the side and top of the top frame, so that it is vertically attached. Get a tape measure that can be read from left to right and right to left for the most benefits.
Bench Vice
Attaching a bench vice to your top or edge of your table works almost as an extra pair of hands for holding your materials in place while you work on them. You can choose from a variety of styles depending on the material and job. Some accessories can be fixed to the top and moved around, while others are permanently attached by bolts through the table. Although they are not mobile, the latter is more secure.
Bench Cookies
Bench cookies are not snacks to enjoy while at work. They are disks shaped like hockey pucks with a grip or rubber surface on the top and bottom. They can be used to prop up materials while nailing, sanding and painting. The rubber pads are very effective in preventing your materials from moving around. If you cant get bench cookies, a silicone project mat is another option. While it won’t hold your materials up, it can prevent them from sliding while you work and keep tools from rolling away.
Clamp Lamp
We recommend using a clamp lamp for better visibility on small angles and technical details. This will improve safety at work and reduce eye strain. Extra lighting can make it easier to work at night or during rainy days. It will also prevent you from missing important details that may need to be redone later.
Once you have the basics down, it’s time to get your tools out and begin crafting.
