Nice video. No small talk, very eficient, very precise. I love his perfect English. No slang, no hickups. Like Pierce Brosnan. Nice tips and tricks. Thanks, I learned a lot.
Dave, you're a good teacher you don't seem to miss out any tiny little thing it's so nice to hear somebody talk like you ,and include, All the Little niceties, it's when you explain something, so many good technicians who do not know how to teach. great video but it was too short, thanks.
Dave, absolutely a brilliant idea. Excellent presentation & guidance. Only problem I have is you state "make this bench for under $150 (in materials) & for a few more dollars add some accessories, including the UJK part guide system. This bench will not work without the dog holes, consequently the UJK part guide system should be used to locate the holes. I find the cost of the UJK part guide system(in Australia) cost prohibitive & makes your work bench an extremely expensive project, especially for a DYI person(who are essentially the bulk of your audience). Still, an excellent job & brilliant design. Congratulations.
Thanks for the compliment! Re the Parf guide, I know of a lot of people who have purchased a parf guide system as a group, Men's sheds especially. Are you a men's shed member? They might have one or be interested in getting one?
Exactly what I need.... well almost. I will be building one next week I don't think I have ever seen such a versatile portable bench that's as affordable. Thanks for making this video.
Dave, i just watched this video. Very clever! I bought a Festool track saw back almost a decade ago, and I CNC’d my own large “MFT” top. (I worked for a small engineering shop then, and had access to their CNC router.) I did not need the portability of the MFT/3, and I wanted my bench to be large, for use as an assembly table, and also outfeed table for my table saw. But there are times I would like to have a second, smaller table. At the time I CNC’d my top, I did not have room for a full sheet of MDF in my basement shop, so after cutting all the 20mm holes, I routed the top to 3 feet wide and 7 feet long, from the standard 4’ X 8’ sheet. It turns out that 3’ is plenty wide, and I have never really missed having the full 8’ length. My top is still in great shape, but I would definitely get the UJK tool to make a replacement top, after watching you use one for your portable bench. You showed that the long Parf dog could be inserted upside down, but mentioned you were not sure why anyone would do this. I use this feature all the time. I have several portable tools like small bandsaw, scroll saw, and arbor press, that are mounted on plywood, and have 20 mm holes in two corners, which align with the dog holes on my bench. I secure the tool to the main bench by dropping the long Parf dogs down thru the tool base, into the bench thru its dog holes. Most tools are heavy enough that anchoring the dogs with screw handles is unnecessary. However, I may add a T-track to my main bench, just to give me other options. Thanks for your great videos!
Your tip for the router depth stop to figure out the bottom of the t-track is genius! I'm always fighting with the plunger spring trying to get the correct depth. This seems so much easier. Can't wait to try it!
I was searching for comparisons between having a T slot vs MFT style table. You went off and combined the best of both worlds. Thanks for sharing your build process!
My wife laughing at you, thinking that's exactly the sort of thing that excites me! Love your Vids Dave, I will be building this when I get home in December! Outstanding!
It looks like my inserts for 5/16" only need a 3/8" pilot hole. People should check theirs before drilling. Thanks for the video David. It saved me a lot of time when I drilled my benchtop.
Great video.For the Craig Clamp....put a T-bolt on it with a theaded nob (or flange nut) and slip it into the T-Track. Then you can use it anywhere along the T-Track, and remove it relatively easily.
@@DavidStanton I actually just watched another one of your videos, and seen it in the background. I just found your channel a few hours ago, so I'll have to catch up, lol. Great work my friend, cheers.
David thank you again I've not been subscribed to your channel long but in that short amount of time you have helped me out with my own shop so much. This is the best thing yet my shop is rather small so as I watched this Video ideas just started popping off in my head. Thank you again.
Only just discovered your channel. I have recently moved to an apartment after retiring so no longer have the space for a dedicated workshop so something like this bench top would be ideal.
Phenomenal idea, Dave! Your approach of building a portable MFT-style bench completely flips - and in a better way - an idea I was about to embark on. I was about to build for my son and daughter-in-law a 3x7' Paulk-style workbench. My son's desire is to cover the top with MFT dog holes, and his wife's diametrically opposed desire is to have a solid work surface for small, delicate work. To accommodate, I was planning to build the bench with dog holes, ala Paulk-syle, but then cover it with a 1/4" thick removable solid sheet of MDF or masonite. But your approach flips that, and IMHO provides much more flexilibility as one isn't locked into a permanent dog hole layout. Bravo! But the reason for this comment: I have two suggestions and one dumb question: 1) Suggestion 1: Why not substitute or add a second t-track running in parallel with the other? This would effectively duplicate the functionality of Kreg's Adaptive Cutting System (ACS) tabletop which uses those t-tracks to accommodate stops. It's a highly flexible system that not only provides more clamping options but allows you to set stops to cut boards at pretty much any desired angle. Check out the ACS to see what I mean. 2) Suggestion 2: Why not build in those grippy ribbons on both sides of the table? This would give you the additional option of laying the portable table directly against the underlying table and not have it move without using the bench cookies. It wouldn't be a replacement for the cookies, just another option when you wanted your portable surface to sit solidly against the table. And for my dumb question: I assume your approach of running the t-track and grippy ribbons the full length of the portable table means that you must use a sacrificial board whenever you cross cut?
Hi Steve. The bench is designed to use a tracksaw off to the side, not cutting into the bench at all. If you want to cut into the bench, you flip it over without the apron fitted giving you a non slip contact to the table you sit the bench on top of. This is why there are no grippy tapes to the underside. A second t track is an option that anyone can add if they wish, but it does add extra expense and I am mindful of price for people wanting an accurate system but without the massive cost of my competitors.
@@DavidStanton Thanks, Dave. Never dawned on me how sensible and easy it is to cut this way on your portable bench. Very interested in purchasing your plans and building this, but it looks like the non-grip legs are currently not available. Is there anything comparable you'd suggest that would be available here in the U.S?
@@DavidStanton Thanks Dave. Though when I mentioned that the non-grip feet were currently unavailable, I actually was referring to the Rockler Bench Cookies which I had seen you use in a number of your bench assembly videos and that you provided Amazon links to as well. Have you since switched to recommending these custom-made legs from yellowboxshed? I tried to locate one of your videos that might have explained the change, but I couldn't find anything. For the record, while Amazon is still showing the Bench Cookies as unavailable, Rockler.com is now saying that Bench Cookie stock will be available again after 3/26. So before I go further, I just wanted to doublecheck: are you recommending to use the new legs from yellowboxshed.com over the Bench Cookies?
Dave, just got the Festool Slideway Non-Slip tape from eBay, the last part I really need to buy. I' think I'll use MDF at 1" thick, but I'll test drill some scrap first to see if the Quick Clamps will have enough clearance to install If Not 3/4" Birch Ply will work just fine. Yep I'm home for good in a little over a month!
I have had a few comments relating to using shorter screws to hold the t track in. I like the fact that if the bench is used "upside down" that you know exactly where the steel screws are if using a track saw.
Thanks for posting this well conceived workshop staple! That screw/saw blade conflict issue is 1 of 2 reasons I use epoxy for this task instead. The 2nd reason is that the short embedment of the short threads easily pull out of the plywood if there’s a strong enough load applied to a track fixture, and the continuous adhesion of the epoxy will not allow that to happen.
Why would that worry you? You surely wouldn't be planning to let any saw cutting be hitting that piece in any way, would you? I know I wouldn't, I actually wouldn't mind making one for myself, thank you for posting this video. I'm going to go and check out your other videos Re: the construction of this table and the positioning of the holes etc. I was thinking you were just using longer screws due to after routing, there wouldn't be a great deal of meat left on the plyboard, so you would want the screws to at least be past the self-tapping thinner tip, and have all the screws in deep enough to have the full thickness of the gauge of your screws and just grind off and file down as you did because they would be in the way otherwise, I like SuperBardley's Idea and I may use Epoxy Resin when I do mine :)...
I like this idea. I am working on my workbench, which is my family's old kitchen table that my grandpa made. I have been hesitant to drill a bunch of holes in it, this will eliminate that problem. Well done :)
Wow, I'm so happy I found this video. Thank you! I love the idea of adding the t-slot track. If you don't want to flip the bench over to switch from cutting and holding, you could cut the t-track to create a gap near one end of the workbench. This would leave a safe path for the saw blade. Peter Millard adds a piece of sacrificial stock along the cross-cut region on his workbench.
Dave I really enjoy watching your videos. You are a very good teacher. Did you teach for a living? You have a great way of making your points, no wasted time and wrapping up at the end. Good topics too.....
Brilliant idea and job Dave. Made one of these myself (99% copy of yours) with the exception I used wood threads. I bought a set of the Wood Whisperer's thread cutters (both metric and imperial) that have a much tighter tolerance than metal taps. That way I can flip the table, screw in the risers and cookies from the "bottom side" and now have a raw surface to use my Festool track saw on. As long as I keep the depth to 1mm+ sheet good thickness I don't do too much damage to the table bottom and preserve the track and the anti-slip strips in tact. Using the bench dogs to position the track it will be in the same spot all the time (may need a little fiddling lining up the sheet) but the kerf in the table will be in the same spot.
Well, that's got me thinking. I was planning to build a big workbench with table saw, drill press, thicknesser and mitre saw built or mounted around the perimeter. I'd planned to cover half of it in MFT style dog holes, but I now think your idea is way better. I could leave your raised MFT table in the new bench centre with dogs and various clamping tools left attached for ready access. Meanwhile I can make the main bench more solid with a much thicker surface. It's got me twitching with anticipation.
I enjoyed watching this series on making a portable MFT bench. I have watched Peter's video on the UJK system and plan to order it from Lee Valley in the near future. The interesting part of the video on the mft3 bench was your use of the Bench Cookie(s) from Rockler. I had seen the bench cookies over the years and never paid much attention. In preparation for building your workbench, I order eight Bench Cookies from Amazon. I just so happen to begin working on a home project that required me to cut some 4 x 8 sheets of plywood. Rather than drag out some timbers to separate the plywood sheets for cutting, I used the Bench Cookies. I was amazed at how they kept the sheets from sliding apart and then how firm they held smaller pieces when making more intricate cuts. I still plan on using the cookies for the portable bench, however, I may need another 8 for working around the shop or in the home. Thanks for the tip. I enjoy the UA-cam videos and the super chat on Sunday. Regards, Chuck
Nice work. Good ideas for using existing tools and clamps on hand. I’m thinking of converting a 1960 36” square card table to something like your with legs.
Hi Dave, I'm a festool fan and user.However I don't have to use my festool tools every day hence I'm not desperate to but a festool bench especially after I found out how much it is.Then I came across with your video.I defo going to use some of your tips.Thank you.
Excellent video and concept. My only comment is what you said about painting, yes it might not stick on the waxed wooden surface but it will stick on the t-track and the anti-slides, so a newspaper or some nylon will be needed underneath.
Fantastic video! I bought the UJK Parf system when it was first released and I've made a couple of quick benches out of MDF. This Parf system should be one of the first tools for the new woodworker or any woodworker. I will be building a table like this because we're headed into autumn and my garage is not heated. Thanks again for the video!
Very nice David. You brought so many handy shop items together and have them working in concert to create a super work surface that an be easily transported to wherever its needed.
Thanks Dave, you have one of the best wood channels on UA-cam. You have a true gift of teaching. I drew a lot of inspiration from this build for my own portable project table. Will post when it's finally finished!
Hi Dave Absolutely brilliant, I don't have a lot of room in my workshop but could tailor fit one to my table saw which would give me a nice work area and when I'm finished with it, it can sit down the side of table saw. Thanks for the tutorial. Regards Edd .
Hi Ray. Thanks for the compliments! I am very fortunate to have my shop the way it is but it didn't just land in my lap. A lot of work to get where I am.
@@DavidStanton Oh, I realize that. I was just meaning that I'd love to have the space you have. I'm in a tiny little shed but I am very fortunate to have what I have. Oh well, I'm close to the end so it makes no sense to have more that I have. But, I sure do enjoy seeing what the rest of you all have. Maybe in my next life. LOL.
Just my two cents on using the router with a straight edge. I did it the same as you did, this seems logical to have the straight edge of the base against the guide, until I saw this on a video on YT: when you turn the router just a tiny bit, it is angled away from the straight edge. So always use the ROUNDED part of the router base to register on the straight edge: then you can turn quite a bit and still keep the same distance to the bit!
The 5/16 inserts are hard to find in the UK and the bench cookies only come in imperial thread. To buy the inserts need to use eBay or Amazon’s who source them from the USA and charge horrendous postage charges. Several cookie buyers have been caught out by the imperial thread...so out of date. Great bench idea, superb video
Maybe, maybe not? Peter is a perfectionist and using his drill bit as a centre punch may have annoyed him? Anyway, the backbone of this project is his system! Thanks for watching!
Every so often somebody comes up with a brilliant idea for a product that every one will want or want to make. I think, Dave, you've just done it. Congratulations! Could this be another 'Workmate' type success story?
Absolutely brilliant Dave. Just found your channel and have been engrossed for a few days. I can see you are going to be a bad influence, already ordered up some mag switches, and now I can see I am going to have to knock one of these up too. Cheers from Florida...
It takes a couple of seconds to dust them off with a brush or shop vac. They are designed to work in a dusty environment without getting any dust permanently sticking.
When designing a bench to accept the Festool standard rail clamps, what is the minimum clearance distance required between the bottom of the 3/4" work surface and a parallel surface below it? Thanks.
@@DavidStanton Thanks. Understood. I was hoping you might have discovered the actual minimum clearance dimension in your work developing your benches, perhaps for guidance as to how high to set the standoffs you use under the portable model.
Nice job snd excellent video, you always deliver the best! Being that I'm lazy and if i can save 10 mins i will, i would have waxed the top before routing for non slip tape, then no need to tape up the channel with masking tape. Can't believe i exerted myself to write that last paragraph 😉
You know Dave, those inserts are easy to put in with a drillpress and bolt, but I suppose most any method works. They go in nice and straight with the press although I'm not sure about how easy it'll be with a 2x4 sheet especially with my cheapo 8" horror freight press.. Nice project. I like it..
Even harder with a larger sheet of ply! Thanks for watching martino! Share the video around if you have any friends who may also like to do something like this.
David Stanton Of course I'll share.. Unfortunately I don't know many other people around town. I'm kind of new to these parts and I'm a bit of a homebody anyway. How about 4 4x8 sheets all connected? That would be fun or life ending depending on how you look at things.. lol
I missed out on how you drilled out your bench top but will likely find it if you posted earlier. Why not incorporate a t track and silicon strips in my MFT?
With a second rail T slot, and a center insert, you could have yourself a nice router table with this, Or sander, or whatever tool can fit within that center insert.
Thanks, nice job on the video and nice job on the table. I'm trying to decide between a table saw and something like this. I already own a Makita plunge saw and track. With these tables I'm trying to figure out two things: 1) how do you balance the track so that it is solid against the work piece. Wouldn't you always have to have scrap of what you are cutting around so that is is the same thickness to put on one side or both of the track so that it is supported (such as with a cross cut). Or if I wanted to rip a 2x4, wouldn't I need another 2x(?) just to cut the one? 2) how do you keep from cutting up your table? If you are using the stops and have the wood directly on the table, every cut would have to be amazingly accurate with the depth to cut all the way through the stock and not into the table. Thank you
Hi Robert Phillips! My plans come with detail on a track support so no packing is required, I never cut on the table. My bench has a unique design to avoid that. A table saw or a circular saw with a fence will be required for ripping 4 x 2. Check out my Mk 11 version. ua-cam.com/video/bHHfaE0RjOk/v-deo.html
One thing to note, you mention the quick clamp won't work if the top is too thick. Could you not just take the clamp apart and feed it up thru the bottom? Maybe slightly less convenient, but seems a reasonable work around for someone who would like a more substantial top.
Hi frozenlayer, there are many styles of clamp out there that will do what you mentioned, in fact I show you the Irwin clamp doing just that. Bessey also make them. The lever clamp is not a pull apart model. Thanks for watching!
Looking forward to my ujk system to arrive and this type of worktop is first on my list. Followed by Timothy Wilmots MFTC. Thanks for another great video Dave.
![Portable Bench Build [video 426][Gifted/Ad**]](/img/n.gif)
Probably the most friendly woodworker on UA-cam. 😊
Thank you.
The shop teacher I never had.
Nice video. No small talk, very eficient, very precise. I love his perfect English. No slang, no hickups. Like Pierce Brosnan. Nice tips and tricks. Thanks, I learned a lot.
Wow, thanks!
Dave, you're a good teacher you don't seem to miss out any tiny little thing it's so nice to hear somebody talk like you ,and include, All the Little niceties, it's when you explain something, so many good technicians who do not know how to teach. great video but it was too short, thanks.
Very welcome
Your personality and joy is infectious and always makes me want to rush out to my workshop and just do anything! Thanks!!
Infectious personality, or just highly contagious excitement for power tools? 😉
Dave, absolutely a brilliant idea. Excellent presentation & guidance. Only problem I have is you state "make this bench for under $150 (in materials) & for a few more dollars add some accessories, including the UJK part guide system. This bench will not work without the dog holes, consequently the UJK part guide system should be used to locate the holes. I find the cost of the UJK part guide system(in Australia) cost prohibitive & makes your work bench an extremely expensive project, especially for a DYI person(who are essentially the bulk of your audience). Still, an excellent job & brilliant design. Congratulations.
Thanks for the compliment! Re the Parf guide, I know of a lot of people who have purchased a parf guide system as a group, Men's sheds especially. Are you a men's shed member? They might have one or be interested in getting one?
Straight away this caught my eye, so I had to leave the previous film, I'll catch up on it later! Very interesting indeed!
Thanks AoToGo!
Exactly what I need.... well almost. I will be building one next week I don't think I have ever seen such a versatile portable bench that's as affordable. Thanks for making this video.
Good luck!
Man o man I wish I was as patiënt as this man. The level of detail is off the charts. Simply beautiful.
Thanks Dragan Bakema!
the head cam footage of putting the tape on is some seriously good ASMR
Thanks Tom Courtney!
Was just about to drop $$$ on an MFT. Found this video just at the right time to save a good chunk of change. My wallet thanks you.
Dave, i just watched this video. Very clever! I bought a Festool track saw back almost a decade ago, and I CNC’d my own large “MFT” top. (I worked for a small engineering shop then, and had access to their CNC router.) I did not need the portability of the MFT/3, and I wanted my bench to be large, for use as an assembly table, and also outfeed table for my table saw. But there are times I would like to have a second, smaller table. At the time I CNC’d my top, I did not have room for a full sheet of MDF in my basement shop, so after cutting all the 20mm holes, I routed the top to 3 feet wide and 7 feet long, from the standard 4’ X 8’ sheet. It turns out that 3’ is plenty wide, and I have never really missed having the full 8’ length. My top is still in great shape, but I would definitely get the UJK tool to make a replacement top, after watching you use one for your portable bench.
You showed that the long Parf dog could be inserted upside down, but mentioned you were not sure why anyone would do this. I use this feature all the time. I have several portable tools like small bandsaw, scroll saw, and arbor press, that are mounted on plywood, and have 20 mm holes in two corners, which align with the dog holes on my bench. I secure the tool to the main bench by dropping the long Parf dogs down thru the tool base, into the bench thru its dog holes. Most tools are heavy enough that anchoring the dogs with screw handles is unnecessary. However, I may add a T-track to my main bench, just to give me other options. Thanks for your great videos!
Thanks for the compliment Lee Reep!
Your added tips and commentary are tremendously valuable and really make this video special!
Your tip for the router depth stop to figure out the bottom of the t-track is genius! I'm always fighting with the plunger spring trying to get the correct depth. This seems so much easier. Can't wait to try it!
Who knew a router depth stop could bring so much joy? It's the little things in woodworking, right?
I was searching for comparisons between having a T slot vs MFT style table. You went off and combined the best of both worlds. Thanks for sharing your build process!
My pleasure Michael Morrison !
My wife laughing at you, thinking that's exactly the sort of thing that excites me! Love your Vids Dave, I will be building this when I get home in December! Outstanding!
Hahaha, well it is good that your wife knows you and I bet you have a giggle at some of the things she watches?
Spooky, ye know me too well?
absolutely love this project and the versatility of such a small platform. This is definitely a work multiplier.
Couldn't agree more!
It looks like my inserts for 5/16" only need a 3/8" pilot hole. People should check theirs before drilling. Thanks for the video David. It saved me a lot of time when I drilled my benchtop.
Yes, 3/8" is correct.
Great video.For the Craig Clamp....put a T-bolt on it with a theaded nob (or flange nut) and slip it into the T-Track. Then you can use it anywhere along the T-Track, and remove it relatively easily.
This is something I have shown in detail in other videos, works reasonably well.
@@DavidStanton I actually just watched another one of your videos, and seen it in the background. I just found your channel a few hours ago, so I'll have to catch up, lol. Great work my friend, cheers.
I love watching and re-watching your videos Dave.
Thanks Shane Southwood!
I love everything I see in you Chanel the best is the way you have everything in you shop congratulations and thanks for teaching to us.
You are so welcome.
David thank you again I've not been subscribed to your channel long but in that short amount of time you have helped me out with my own shop so much. This is the best thing yet my shop is rather small so as I watched this Video ideas just started popping off in my head.
Thank you again.
Send me pictures to share on my livestream! davestantonfans@gmail.com Thanks for the compliment!!
taking the end off of a quick-release clamp and threading it through dog hole - that blew my mind
Thanks ltandrepants!
this is what happens when you get your shit together. im still using saw horses and a workmate.
genius my friend!
Thanks graham!
Only just discovered your channel. I have recently moved to an apartment after retiring so no longer have the space for a dedicated workshop so something like this bench top would be ideal.
Plans available at my website. www.stantonbench.com.au
Love your work, so refreshing to see a local doing what you do on UA-cam.
Thanks Michael!
Thanks for this. The best instructional video I’ve ever seen on UA-cam.
Thanks for the compliment Rim Veitas!
Phenomenal idea, Dave! Your approach of building a portable MFT-style bench completely flips - and in a better way - an idea I was about to embark on. I was about to build for my son and daughter-in-law a 3x7' Paulk-style workbench. My son's desire is to cover the top with MFT dog holes, and his wife's diametrically opposed desire is to have a solid work surface for small, delicate work. To accommodate, I was planning to build the bench with dog holes, ala Paulk-syle, but then cover it with a 1/4" thick removable solid sheet of MDF or masonite. But your approach flips that, and IMHO provides much more flexilibility as one isn't locked into a permanent dog hole layout. Bravo!
But the reason for this comment: I have two suggestions and one dumb question:
1) Suggestion 1: Why not substitute or add a second t-track running in parallel with the other? This would effectively duplicate the functionality of Kreg's Adaptive Cutting System (ACS) tabletop which uses those t-tracks to accommodate stops. It's a highly flexible system that not only provides more clamping options but allows you to set stops to cut boards at pretty much any desired angle. Check out the ACS to see what I mean.
2) Suggestion 2: Why not build in those grippy ribbons on both sides of the table? This would give you the additional option of laying the portable table directly against the underlying table and not have it move without using the bench cookies. It wouldn't be a replacement for the cookies, just another option when you wanted your portable surface to sit solidly against the table.
And for my dumb question: I assume your approach of running the t-track and grippy ribbons the full length of the portable table means that you must use a sacrificial board whenever you cross cut?
Hi Steve. The bench is designed to use a tracksaw off to the side, not cutting into the bench at all. If you want to cut into the bench, you flip it over without the apron fitted giving you a non slip contact to the table you sit the bench on top of. This is why there are no grippy tapes to the underside. A second t track is an option that anyone can add if they wish, but it does add extra expense and I am mindful of price for people wanting an accurate system but without the massive cost of my competitors.
@@DavidStanton Thanks, Dave. Never dawned on me how sensible and easy it is to cut this way on your portable bench. Very interested in purchasing your plans and building this, but it looks like the non-grip legs are currently not available. Is there anything comparable you'd suggest that would be available here in the U.S?
Steve, the legs are available. Have a look here. www.yellowboxshed.com.au/product-category/bench-dog/
@@DavidStanton Thanks Dave. Though when I mentioned that the non-grip feet were currently unavailable, I actually was referring to the Rockler Bench Cookies which I had seen you use in a number of your bench assembly videos and that you provided Amazon links to as well. Have you since switched to recommending these custom-made legs from yellowboxshed? I tried to locate one of your videos that might have explained the change, but I couldn't find anything. For the record, while Amazon is still showing the Bench Cookies as unavailable, Rockler.com is now saying that Bench Cookie stock will be available again after 3/26. So before I go further, I just wanted to doublecheck: are you recommending to use the new legs from yellowboxshed.com over the Bench Cookies?
Steve, I think we can blame Covid for out of stock.
Dave, just got the Festool Slideway Non-Slip tape from eBay, the last part I really need to buy. I' think I'll use MDF at 1" thick, but I'll test drill some scrap first to see if the Quick Clamps will have enough clearance to install If Not 3/4" Birch Ply will work just fine. Yep I'm home for good in a little over a month!
I have had a few comments relating to using shorter screws to hold the t track in. I like the fact that if the bench is used "upside down" that you know exactly where the steel screws are if using a track saw.
Thanks for posting this well conceived workshop staple!
That screw/saw blade conflict issue is 1 of 2 reasons I use epoxy for this task instead. The 2nd reason is that the short embedment of the short threads easily pull out of the plywood if there’s a strong enough load applied to a track fixture, and the continuous adhesion of the epoxy will not allow that to happen.
Why would that worry you? You surely wouldn't be planning to let any saw cutting be hitting that piece in any way, would you? I know I wouldn't, I actually wouldn't mind making one for myself, thank you for posting this video. I'm going to go and check out your other videos Re: the construction of this table and the positioning of the holes etc. I was thinking you were just using longer screws due to after routing, there wouldn't be a great deal of meat left on the plyboard, so you would want the screws to at least be past the self-tapping thinner tip, and have all the screws in deep enough to have the full thickness of the gauge of your screws and just grind off and file down as you did because they would be in the way otherwise, I like SuperBardley's Idea and I may use Epoxy Resin when I do mine :)...
Hy Dave i made my first recline bench whit the parf guide sistem! Your video are so great!! Thank you so much
Glad it helped!
I like this idea. I am working on my workbench, which is my family's old kitchen table that my grandpa made. I have been hesitant to drill a bunch of holes in it, this will eliminate that problem. Well done :)
I didn't want to drill into my new bench either. Great minds think alike!! Thanks for watching Jason!
Love your attention to detail Dave , it's great to see another struck with the same affliction
Thanks Superbradthestrong!
Wow, I'm so happy I found this video. Thank you!
I love the idea of adding the t-slot track. If you don't want to flip the bench over to switch from cutting and holding, you could cut the t-track to create a gap near one end of the workbench. This would leave a safe path for the saw blade. Peter Millard adds a piece of sacrificial stock along the cross-cut region on his workbench.
Glad it was helpful!
Dave I really enjoy watching your videos. You are a very good teacher. Did you teach for a living? You have a great way of making your points, no wasted time and wrapping up at the end. Good topics too.....
Thanks for the compliment. No, not a teacher. I am a retired builder who works part time a couple of days in a tool store.
I don't usually comment on videos but I really liked this one. Well done.
Thanks Andy! Share it around if you know of someone else who may enjoy it.
Brilliant idea and job Dave. Made one of these myself (99% copy of yours) with the exception I used wood threads. I bought a set of the Wood Whisperer's thread cutters (both metric and imperial) that have a much tighter tolerance than metal taps. That way I can flip the table, screw in the risers and cookies from the "bottom side" and now have a raw surface to use my Festool track saw on. As long as I keep the depth to 1mm+ sheet good thickness I don't do too much damage to the table bottom and preserve the track and the anti-slip strips in tact. Using the bench dogs to position the track it will be in the same spot all the time (may need a little fiddling lining up the sheet) but the kerf in the table will be in the same spot.
Well done Alex! Flick me some photos to davestantonfans@gmail.com and I will put on the live stream.
Well, that's got me thinking.
I was planning to build a big workbench with table saw, drill press, thicknesser and mitre saw built or mounted around the perimeter. I'd planned to cover half of it in MFT style dog holes, but I now think your idea is way better. I could leave your raised MFT table in the new bench centre with dogs and various clamping tools left attached for ready access. Meanwhile I can make the main bench more solid with a much thicker surface.
It's got me twitching with anticipation.
Sounds great!
I enjoyed watching this series on making a portable MFT bench. I have watched Peter's video on the UJK system and plan to order it from Lee Valley in the near future. The interesting part of the video on the mft3 bench was your use of the Bench Cookie(s) from Rockler. I had seen the bench cookies over the years and never paid much attention. In preparation for building your workbench, I order eight Bench Cookies from Amazon. I just so happen to begin working on a home project that required me to cut some 4 x 8 sheets of plywood. Rather than drag out some timbers to separate the plywood sheets for cutting, I used the Bench Cookies. I was amazed at how they kept the sheets from sliding apart and then how firm they held smaller pieces when making more intricate cuts. I still plan on using the cookies for the portable bench, however, I may need another 8 for working around the shop or in the home. Thanks for the tip. I enjoy the UA-cam videos and the super chat on Sunday.
Regards,
Chuck
The bench cookies are very surprising! Thanks for watching Charles, hopefully I can keep interesting content on my little channel.
Absolutely amazing I'm going to make one now slightly bigger thank you so much. I'm a contractor and this is going to help
Glad it helped
Nice work. Good ideas for using existing tools and clamps on hand. I’m thinking of converting a 1960 36” square card table to something like your with legs.
Hi Dave, I'm a festool fan and user.However I don't have to use my festool tools every day hence I'm not desperate to but a festool bench especially after I found out how much it is.Then I came across with your video.I defo going to use some of your tips.Thank you.
Thanks Tomasz Ignielnicki!
That's *sophisticated* woodworking. Thank you, Dave.
My pleasure.
Some people are so talented. .....and then there is me.
Awesome video. Thanks
Make one samlol23. Then send me a photo! Thanks for watching.
Excellent video and concept.
My only comment is what you said about painting, yes it might not stick on the waxed wooden surface but it will stick on the t-track and the anti-slides, so a newspaper or some nylon will be needed underneath.
You are correct! Thanks for watching!
Fantastic video! I bought the UJK Parf system when it was first released and I've made a couple of quick benches out of MDF. This Parf system should be one of the first tools for the new woodworker or any woodworker.
I will be building a table like this because we're headed into autumn and my garage is not heated. Thanks again for the video!
Glad you liked it Tim. Send me some pics when you make it!
That bench top is a work of art. Thanks for showing it to us.
Glad you like it
You are the master of MFT workbench . I’ve just finish my MFT with festool profils .
Thanks Jean michel Bottin!
Just very lovely indeed. Job well done Sir
Glad you enjoyed it!
I have been waiting for a jig that does this, and I think this is my Christmas present.
Thanks David Crook!
Very nice David. You brought so many handy shop items together and have them working in concert to create a super work surface that an be easily transported to wherever its needed.
Heaps of fun working it out and creating the bench Bob!
Thanks Dave, you have one of the best wood channels on UA-cam. You have a true gift of teaching. I drew a lot of inspiration from this build for my own portable project table. Will post when it's finally finished!
Thanks Chilipal, looking forward to it!
Hi Dave
Absolutely brilliant, I don't have a lot of room in my workshop but could tailor fit one to my table saw which would give me a nice work area and when I'm finished with it, it can sit down the side of table saw. Thanks for the tutorial.
Regards Edd .
Thanks for watching Edward!
I found a wallpaper brush is great for dusting off those anti slip strips.
Thanks eaglecot!
Excellent production. I like it. I only wish I had a bench top like yours to start with. You've got the shop that we all dream of.
Hi Ray. Thanks for the compliments! I am very fortunate to have my shop the way it is but it didn't just land in my lap. A lot of work to get where I am.
@@DavidStanton Oh, I realize that. I was just meaning that I'd love to have the space you have. I'm in a tiny little shed but I am very fortunate to have what I have. Oh well, I'm close to the end so it makes no sense to have more that I have. But, I sure do enjoy seeing what the rest of you all have. Maybe in my next life. LOL.
Super, beaucoup de bonnes idées j’ai bien aimé !
Thanks jean-paul MAZEN!
Just my two cents on using the router with a straight edge. I did it the same as you did, this seems logical to have the straight edge of the base against the guide, until I saw this on a video on YT:
when you turn the router just a tiny bit, it is angled away from the straight edge. So always use the ROUNDED part of the router base to register on the straight edge: then you can turn quite a bit and still keep the same distance to the bit!
Interesting point Bernd Heiden.My only concern with that is that some bases are not centred.
I love this mate. I'm definitely making it and it will be so handy to put in the van and take with me to work. Keep the great ideas coming. 👍
yes its good eh
The 5/16 inserts are hard to find in the UK and the bench cookies only come in imperial thread. To buy the inserts need to use eBay or Amazon’s who source them from the USA and charge horrendous postage charges. Several cookie buyers have been caught out by the imperial thread...so out of date.
Great bench idea, superb video
Great Job! Very well made video. Entertaining but still technical with a bit of humor and a nice touch of reality.
Thanks corndog77511!
you can make your own bench dogs from 3/4" copper water pipe + endcap + soldered (or brazed) together + thin shrinky. Works for me. Cheap and easy.
Shrinky?
Enjoyed your video. I like the way you present the information you are sharing. Clear and concise. Thank you
nice video David Peter will be very pleased with your ideas many thanks
Maybe, maybe not? Peter is a perfectionist and using his drill bit as a centre punch may have annoyed him? Anyway, the backbone of this project is his system! Thanks for watching!
Great idea Dave.
That's a project for every carpenter!
Share it around James!
Very nice Dave!! Looks very handy! I admire your attention to detail sir
Thanks Jim!
Every so often somebody comes up with a brilliant idea for a product that every one will want or want to make. I think, Dave, you've just done it. Congratulations! Could this be another 'Workmate' type success story?
Thanks Richard!
@@DavidStanton how come we don't see u on UA-cam any more David
Matthew, I'm on every week
Ich liebe ihre mobile Werkbank, und werde sie ewt nächstes Jahr nachbauen!
---
I love her mobile workbench, and will rebuild it next year!
Good to hear!
Gut zu hören
I may make something similar or even exact... love it!
Send me a photo or two when you have finished it.
Absolutely brilliant Dave. Just found your channel and have been engrossed for a few days. I can see you are going to be a bad influence, already ordered up some mag switches, and now I can see I am going to have to knock one of these up too. Cheers from Florida...
Hi Steve, it's a slippery slope! Enjoy the ride, thanks for watching!!
What a brilliant video Dave, got a few things going on just now, but this is definitely getting added on my to-do list. Thanks for sharing. Calum
Thanks Calum!
Absolutely love this Dave !!!! This is my next build. I can hardly wait to get started. Love it !!
Hope you enjoy it!
Nice. What happens to those anti slipping bands covered with dust?
It takes a couple of seconds to dust them off with a brush or shop vac. They are designed to work in a dusty environment without getting any dust permanently sticking.
Stunning work, loved the video
Thank you very much!
Bob Ross of woodworking
Thanks for the compliment!
wish I had seen this earlier would have saved me a lot of time, I have two kregs and I love them
Hi Don. Nothing wrong with Kreg gear!
that is what I said I love mine looking to buy more kreg equip.very impressed with all I have seen
Yes, I understood you love them, me to. Maybe my way of agreeing with you wasn't as clear as I could have made it?
I may have misunderstood your meaning, but that is ok we are in agreement now. Love your vids.
Those grippy strips would be great on a sanding table.
Hi MrBrewzr! One of the reasons they are on my bench.
This is incredibly helpful, thank you for taking the time to make it!
You're very welcome!
When designing a bench to accept the Festool standard rail clamps, what is the minimum clearance distance required between the bottom of the 3/4" work surface and a parallel surface below it? Thanks.
Hi Michael Schuler! Enough room for a clamp to rotate underneath.
@@DavidStanton Thanks. Understood. I was hoping you might have discovered the actual minimum clearance dimension in your work developing your benches, perhaps for guidance as to how high to set the standoffs you use under the portable model.
Nice job snd excellent video, you always deliver the best!
Being that I'm lazy and if i can save 10 mins i will, i would have waxed the top before routing for non slip tape, then no need to tape up the channel with masking tape.
Can't believe i exerted myself to write that last paragraph 😉
Thanks! 👍
You know Dave, those inserts are easy to put in with a drillpress and bolt, but I suppose most any method works. They go in nice and straight with the press although I'm not sure about how easy it'll be with a 2x4 sheet especially with my cheapo 8" horror freight press..
Nice project. I like it..
Even harder with a larger sheet of ply! Thanks for watching martino! Share the video around if you have any friends who may also like to do something like this.
David Stanton Of course I'll share.. Unfortunately I don't know many other people around town. I'm kind of new to these parts and I'm a bit of a homebody anyway.
How about 4 4x8 sheets all connected? That would be fun or life ending depending on how you look at things.. lol
This is an awesome idea! I'm going to build it. Dave you are the best.
Thanks Joel, you speak the truth!!
Thanks for the reply. It’s a fun project.
It sure is!
Only just got round to this Dave. Very professional mate, lovely job, great video.
Thanks Graham!
I missed out on how you drilled out your bench top but will likely find it if you posted earlier. Why not incorporate a t track and silicon strips in my MFT?
Follow this link Wallace. tsoproducts.com/tools-equipment/ujk-parf-guide-system-mark-ii/?aff=2
Fantastic!!!! This is going on my project list. Thanks Dave!
Thanks Charles! Send me some photos when you are making it!!
With a second rail T slot, and a center insert, you could have yourself a nice router table with this, Or sander, or whatever tool can fit within that center insert.
The depth below the top is limiting to a router. But I like your thinking Xander!
Longer legs or an overly complicated gearbox setup would work.
Yes.....but trying to keep the design simple maybe straddling two tables?
Great video Dave, can you slide the Kreg clamp into the T-track?
David Newman, if you replace the dome head bolt with a 5/16th inch x 1 inch t bolt.
Brilliant Dave! Just moved on to my top five build list!
Number 1 I hope!!
Thanks, nice job on the video and nice job on the table.
I'm trying to decide between a table saw and something like this. I already own a Makita plunge saw and track. With these tables I'm trying to figure out two things: 1) how do you balance the track so that it is solid against the work piece. Wouldn't you always have to have scrap of what you are cutting around so that is is the same thickness to put on one side or both of the track so that it is supported (such as with a cross cut). Or if I wanted to rip a 2x4, wouldn't I need another 2x(?) just to cut the one? 2) how do you keep from cutting up your table? If you are using the stops and have the wood directly on the table, every cut would have to be amazingly accurate with the depth to cut all the way through the stock and not into the table.
Thank you
Hi Robert Phillips! My plans come with detail on a track support so no packing is required, I never cut on the table. My bench has a unique design to avoid that. A table saw or a circular saw with a fence will be required for ripping 4 x 2. Check out my Mk 11 version. ua-cam.com/video/bHHfaE0RjOk/v-deo.html
i hope you got a table saw
Really nice. You have a great demonstration style.
Glad you enjoyed my video Charles!
What an amazing job sir!
Thank you kindly!
Great idea Dave. Gives lots of food for thought. I just need a bigger table now!
Regards
Mike B
Thanks Mike. I am sure you are capable of building a bigger table.
Yes but not a bigger workshop!!
Cheers Dave
Does wax get onto your projects you make on the bench?? Would polyurethane be a better choice??
Hi Andre P. No problems with the wax. You can use poly if you want to.
Really good video. Really enjoy watching your vids, you're genuinely happy to do this kind of work. It's contagious.
Thanks Daniel!!
Very nice Dave you got me thinking i may need one too
Go for it Frank, I love mine.
This Is fantastic. I am always looking for ways to hold jobs especially when I am away from the shed.
Hope it goes well for you Rob!
One thing to note, you mention the quick clamp won't work if the top is too thick. Could you not just take the clamp apart and feed it up thru the bottom? Maybe slightly less convenient, but seems a reasonable work around for someone who would like a more substantial top.
Hi frozenlayer, there are many styles of clamp out there that will do what you mentioned, in fact I show you the Irwin clamp doing just that. Bessey also make them. The lever clamp is not a pull apart model. Thanks for watching!
Looking forward to my ujk system to arrive and this type of worktop is first on my list. Followed by Timothy Wilmots MFTC. Thanks for another great video Dave.
Awesome. So well explained that even my wood brain can follow. This will be my next project. Thanks for this, David.
David
Howmany cm is the distanche between your table and the under side of your bench
100mm
Thanks
This is an incredible setup man!
Thanks for watching Bobby!