Hinged workbench - store against wall

[Spencer74]

I ride my bike to work for a few reasons but the main one is to keep one side of the garage free for 'doing stuff'.

I would like to build a workbench that is 'hinged' against the wall so that it can be 'folded up' flush against the wall in case I need the space back again.

I have a nice area between brick supports that is 1200 wide and 220 deep in which it would sit nicely.

This way I have my workbench but retain the flexibility in the garage in case I need the full space again.

I realise there will be compromises but has anyone done anything similar or seen plans for this type of workbench?

Thanks in eager anticipation .... :U

[Ivan in Oz]

I used a Draftsmans Desk, which Folded up, as a Study.
But I didn't do any banging or Work on it.

You might require some Hinges with GRUNT:2tsup:

Me thinks it could be done.

[blackhole]

A few for inspiration.
Having the legs take the weight would be the secret to success.

http://www.plansnow.com/wbenchfold2.html

http://www.stor-n-fold.com/

http://www.shopnotes.com/plans/fold-down-work-center/exploded/

http://www.buildeazy.com/newplans/wall_bench.html

[Ron Dunn]

Carbatec sells one. I can't find the page, but it is in their catalogue.

The following books have examples:

Build Your Own Custom Workbench
Mark Corke
Popular Woodworking Books

Toolboxes & Workbenches
Danny Proulx
Popular Woodworking Books

Both of these books were in the local library.

[Spencer74]

Thanks guys - very helpful ...

[munruben]

Carbatec sells one. I can't find the page, but it is in their catalogue.. Page 89

[Roger]

Try this one, its really sturdy. Action Station http://www.system7na.com/action.php :2tsup:

[wdyte_dan]

http://www.carbatec.com.au/store/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=290_19218_19772

[hitch]

Spencer 74 it's a great space saving idea particularly when you have to share your workshop with two cars as I do.

I built my fold down bench a few years back from bits and pieces I sourced from the big B. When folded down it sits just 50-60mm off the wall, is very strong - I can bang away at stuff 'til my hearts content, sit on it and no doubt tap dance on it should the spirit of completed projects move me to that.

Strength comes from a batten (2x1") fixed to the wall that supports the back edge of the bench when it is raised and three metal legs that fold down to support the front edge.

The bench top is MDF glued and screwed to 2"x1" framework.

I don't have a plan - like most of my work I made it up as I went along.

I will try to take some meaningful photos of it and, if I can work out how to, will post them here.

[hitch]

Spence74 pictures of my swing down workbench as mentioned in previous post.

Hope they are of some assistance to you.

Happy to answer any questions you may have

[bricks]

Old solid doors work best, can use same hinges too.