Basic builds are exactly what I'm here for. Expensive tool builds are fun to watch but budget tool builds are what make me head to the shed and start projects.
Thanks Peter for another excellent video. I’m now retired and living in Orlando,Florida having had my own business for 40+ years making fitted furniture. How I wish I was working again, if for no other reason than being able to utilise your great ideas. My working life, although treasured, could have been made that much easier. I’ve nothing but admiration for your skill, your content and the relaxed way in which you present it. My very best wishes and long may you continue to inform and entertain us.
Hey Bryn, I have a question for you, do you have any recommendations as to where contractors get their lumber in Orlando? I’m getting into wood working and I’ve seen a lot of people recommend only getting your wood from a lumber yard as you’ll get better wood for cheaper, but idk where i should go Thanks!
Looking forward to the basics builds! This type of content makes me realize that builds can be so much easier and affordable if you want to. Inspires me to not overcomplicate shop projects. I’m very interested in seeing you routing a t-slot. I wonder if they provide enough strength to clamp to. I’ve wanted to try this, because it seems so easy compared to store-bought t-tracks.
Thanks! Yes, I think as makers we do tend to make things complex for ourselves, sometimes! I’m also interested in the t-slot cutters, because I’m also curious about the strength aspect! 👍👍
I'm going to start gathering up the supplies and give this a go later on in the summer too. Think I may make the dogs out of dowels but otherwise it's going to be basically the same. Thankfully there's an IKEA not too far away!
That’s very generous of you Mike, thank you very much! If you’d care to shoot me an email through the contact form at 10MinuteWorkshop.com I’ll send you links to a couple of members videos, with my compliments! Thanks! Peter. 👍👍
Having just retired and taking up a new hobby of wood working to keep my mind ticking, I would love to see some basic builds. Watching this video has shown me that to build something so useful you don't have to own the most expensive tools. I really enjoy your videos but could never justify expensive tooling for a hobby. This is a game changer for me. Thank you Peter.
Yes indeed this video is ideal for those people, which is most of us, who are not carpenters but DIYers. There is a much bigger need for this type of video than those with people whose domino tool alone is worth more than most DIYers entire kit. There’s people with 10-30 thousand dollar shops trying to show DIYers how to make cabinets for example. The reality is that anyone with tens of thousands in tools is likely to already know how to build cabinets. But this video is great in that it starts at a base level and tries to promote ingenuity and skill above sheer raw high end tools. Great idea and well executed Peter.
Love that plunge saw rail bench dog jig, genius! Thanks for showing that a woodworker with your level of experience can still build with simplicity. All the best from Wellington, New Zealand.
Thanks for the great content. Many channels only highlight the fanciest tools and biggest workshops, but your videos make us normal people realize that you can be a true craftsman in any scenario. Keep it up!
Thanks! It's s tricky one; if you have the gear, then you'll want to use it, but I 100% understand the frustration when a UA-camr finishes something with a few thousand's worth of power tools then turns to the camera and says "...of course, you can also use a hand plane..." 🤦♂️
@@10MinuteWorkshop I agree. I love a new fancy tool as much as the next person, so I think you're doing a good job balancing content. No complaints here
Absolutely awesome teaching techniques. I very much appreciate these beginner start needs with minimal tool access. Thank you, so very much. American girl beginner with some hope.
You have completely converted me from the evolution mitre saw and rage table saw - to the track saw. Thank you! Yes - I am going to build this sort of table, as I have to make ideally looking 12 steps on my single stringer staircase. Your video about dowel pins gave me enough confidence to spend £1000 on ash and to start glueing. Thank you!
This is the show I’ve been waiting for. This is for the weekend DIYer who isn’t a pro, can’t afford pro tools, but would like to get better at building beyond rough carpentry. Thanks Peter.
With some of the videos I've seen on your channel, you have convinced me that my future bench top will be MFT. I'm currently working on a foldable workbench with that system and I like it is just that is so small and I know I can make it better which I'll do, I went today and bough some new bench dogs and I'm also using my regular workbench but I would definitely have to make the work bench that you have made in a near future. Thank you so much, I love your channel!
What a pain the vac hose can be, watching your video Peter I'm going to try a hanging system wit a washing line, cheers. Edit, and working in the garden when it's windy. 🙄
The usual high quality of production and information! I have a table saw, but you've convinced me that for large sheet goods, taking the tool to the work is a much better and safer option. So I've just bought a Mafell tracksaw (it's only money), and have re-watched most of your tracksaw videos before purchase. Now of course I'm going to have to build an MFT-style bench. Even my wife says your videos are easy to listen to... Hope she doesn't take up wood-working! Looking forward to your new series. Thanks and all the best.
Thanks again Peter I really enjoyed that and show what can be done on a budget and a size to suit someone starting off in woodworking. Almost makes me wonder about a basic builds workshop…
Loved this concept. As you said can't build a bench without a bench. So many UA-cam videos are making an upgrade bench, router table or what ever when they already have a bench or router table to make the new one. I experienced this making a torsion box bench. These video's will really help people starting out. Well done and cheers mate 👍
Excited about the series. A big thanks for this helpful/informative and well-presented content. Maybe, some people complain about video quality outdoors, but it is better quality than required for learning something that is a huge help. Very well presented and easy to follow. Thanks very much for South Africa.
A month too late! I built my own MFT bench after watching your track saw series (best thing I have watched on UA-cam) and I'm now cutting up square and straight 18mm MDF as if I was born to it.
I love this idea, and it's going into my shop the first spare weekend I have (after I DIY the actual MFT top, and I've found the video for that)! The though struck me, and I haven't searched comments, so, my apologies if I'm late to the game, but, put a piece of 3 or 6mm across the bottom (making this an actual box), cut a port in the side for a shop vacuum, et, voila, integrated dust collection!!!
This is exactly what I need to modify my existing built-in bench in my garage. I was considering cutting mft holes in the existing surface but did not relish the sawdust falling through into the storage areas below. Thank you for showing how to do it without spending a fortune.
Love this Peter, thank you. Nice to see Ikea shelving still has a place in the Millard household (well, garden). Happy to take your Festool stuff off you now you've progressed to Macallister.
Great build peter, i tinker in my shed but being disabled money can be tight so its good to see budget type projects that are made with basic tools, looking forward to seeing more in the future. Thanks for sharing this project.
Enjoyed this. Coming around to the idea that I need something to make square cuts quickly and reliably using the track-saw. No dedicated workshop sadly, only a chaotic family garage, so something like this might be just the ticket for me.
Love the idea of basic builds with basic tools so look forward to those. Given that routers can be pretty inexpensive, t slot routing would be interesting too.
Looking forward to more videos in the series Peter! I like the idea of adding a new tool to each build to increase capabilities and workflow. Shelves, cabinets and small storage projects like drawers and organizers are great "basic" projects. A step-stool should be one of the next projects; it functions as a tool as well as a project. 🙂 Keep it up! Even as an experienced woodworker (18 years), I'll enjoy the series.
Love that Peter. Fantastic idea, as always. Gardens looking well too lol... The new series sounds brilliant. Can see that doing very well. Look forward to those. 👍👍
I have no issues using routed t-slots. Great for stop blocks and featherboards. I only do light clamping to hold down parts. I tend to route them deeper than aluminum channel to give them more strength. I've only used wood and mdf. I was concerned about plywood delamination. That would be a good test to try. Cheers!
Nice job mate. I think the thing about woodwork or have a go DIY, is it seems like an accessible endeavour at first. Then the realisation of cost of tools and materials kicks in! Great vid to help people get started who don't have a workshop and few tools.👌 Always worth a scrounge for materials too. Do ask if it's off a site though folks! They'll usually be glad to get rid but don't just take it.
@@10MinuteWorkshop Yeah, I've also seen site managers completely lose it with people taking stuff even if it's skipped. Best avoided 😄 Can't remember why now but on large corporate builds there were tight rules on giving materials away (as in not don't). Daft but doesn't hurt to ask.👍
This is great. I enjoyed both builds. I do have the Microjig thingy and would like to see how you would do that. Always great videos. I look forward to the next build.
Really like this build. Now trying to work out the best way to mount it on the top of my Workmate in a way that won't impede dog hole access for clamps etc. Trickier than i had hoped!
Thanks! That is tricky; are you planning on a frame around it? That will give enough height for clamps - dogs aren’t generally a problem unless you want to fix them from underneath. You could add a base to it - like the Paulk bench - then fix a batten across the base and clamp that in the jaws of the workmate - you’ll need to notch the batten to get it over the workmate framework, but it works well. We used to use workmates as ‘set’ tables back in the photographic days using the ‘batten & board’ trick, and they were perfect for the job. HTH. P
In my part of the world it seems all the CNC places have looked at Festool's prices and just set that as their price, plus shipping of course. Makes all the fancy jigs to make your own seem a much better deal, specially if you are likely to have to make a couple over the years.
Excellent Peter you really had me at the intro. First class skill, imagination and taking a brilliant idea and stripping it right back is shear genius. Well done and like all others can’t wait for the “basics build series” to unfolding.
Hi Peter, you mention that by allowing an overhang this will reduce the length of the crosscut (then you post text on the video "if using a fence"). Can you explain why that would be the case as I am being a little slow this morning.
Sorry, badly worded whilst speaking off the cuff. What I meant was that if you have the overhang, then you won’t be able to mount a rail hinge (not without taking up benchtop space) so you’ll be left using either the dog locks or rail dogs, both of which will reduce the cut width to the max. distance between the dog holes, or more if you use a fence as this will sit in front of the last row of dog holes. Hope that makes sense! P
What is the purpose of the t track on the front face? How will that be useful? Perhaps you illustrated this in an earlier video, but I missed in this one what it’s purpose is. Thank you.
I did buy the UJK parf guide system so I could basically build my own size top plus they are fun to make. But great build it was nice to see a sunny day where you are. Thanks for sharing love your channel and content
This minimalistic build is fantastic Peter! I have built my own mft’s and get caught up with a lot of bells and whistles and have thought that a minimal setup like yours would be a great jobsite setup
I've just (last week) grabbed the matchfit pro kit and it's a complete game changer for me. It's trivial to use, set the height with the included guide, set your fence, route away. Done. The slots are much stronger than the t-slot cut (with router bit) track,Yeah, it's not really cheap but then I was looking at buying a table for my drill press (£130 :( ), ended up buying matchfit and making my own. Honestly, took me 10 minutes to make the base with slots and a matching fence. The hardest part of the matchfit system was extracting the router bit from its case (it took me longer than making the table!). I'd recommend it wholeheartedly. I'm about to add the dovetail 'tracks' to my home made mft, in between the dogholes for endless clamping opportunities. . The only real downside is having to buy their clamps but given you can add these tracks to pretty much anything I'm not sure it's a giant problem. You can also get little plastic parts for making your jigs without using the clamps. Beginning to sound like an advert now so I'll stop.. Great video, again, though Peter.
Awesome. To the max. Love the idea of a basic build starting from scratch with workbench and using each tool to make each successive one On an unrelated note, I'd love to see your take on a DIY track hinge using fire door hinges as some on the ukworkshop forum have done. It would be a logical evolution of this cheap and cheerful workbench
Thanks! The old ‘fire door hinge trick’ has been around for a while; my issue with it is that it’s a permanent fixture. The DIY hinge I’m planning will have the rail removable much more easily. 👍
@@10MinuteWorkshop this’ll be interesting, I like the simple idea of the hinges, but don’t want to drill holes in my expensive rail 😂. I could also see this as something where Ralph @benchdogs could make a more elegant solution of the z fold, I have sent him an email about it, but be good to see your take on it too.
The videos are really informative and enjoyable. I can see that you use a plunge saw on track extensively for a large variety of jobs. I have a makita 165mm circular saw and would like to start doing some small woodworking projects for the house. Would you recommend getting a track saw (like the Mac Allister in the video) or a medium size router first ? Cheers.
Thanks! I find a track saw generally much to use than a circular saw with infinitely better dust collection, so if you’re working out of a smaller space then that would be my first choice. Routers are wonderful tools and I have a few, it they don’t get used as much as the saw. 👍👍
Crates and a board! I love it. I have so many (not so) fond memories of making do out in the field. 😂😂 But seriously, it's refreshing to see someone--especially of your calibre--demonstrating how a simple setup and basic tools can be sufficient. This is going to be a great series!
I think that was a really kind thing to do for all the guys working off of milk crates in their back garden. It gives people inspiration to have a go rather than telling themselves they can't because they don't have this or that. Can I ask why you do a double T Track at the front?
Thanks! Re the double tap-track, as I think I said in the previous vid (DIY workshop MFT) it’s just to increase the clamping opportunities. For example, being able to have a front rail support stop in the top t-track without it affecting clamps in the bottom slot. You don’t have to do this, but I find it useful - I only had one length of t-track so I left scope to add another in later. 👍
@@10MinuteWorkshop Thank you Peter, had I of thought this through I should have been able to work that out, it is Friday!! I must have missed the DIY workshop MFT video so will go catch up.
Love it Peter at 2mins 14seconds "there you go, budget MFT done" had to laugh. A bit too basic !!!. Really love the build,just the thing that a tracksaw newbie like me needs,thanks so much for doing this,BTW Keith Brown gave a shoutout to Small space creations recently,he has a real good thing on doing benchdogs on the cheap.Thanks once again,come payday,this is on the list,Take care
Another great build, I’m really looking forward to making one myself. I’m not sure if you already done so, but if not, I think telling beginners about the basics of piloting holes and screwing stuff together would be invaluable. I see beginners drill too large or too small pilot holes for the screws, especially in MDF and then too big in softer timber. Also see clearance holes too big/small in the outside material. Screw choice obvs makes a big difference, so for beginners really confusing. Nothing worse for them than finding a screw binds before driving home or continually turns 👍🏻
Thanks Andy. That's an idea I've had on the back-burner for a while, but thought it might be too basic. But I still keep coming back to it! I always struggle with the translation issue too - a 4mm pilot for a 5mm screw won't help if you think in terms of 'inch and a quarter by eight...' Still, there's definitely something in it. 👍
@@10MinuteWorkshop yeah, I find when teaching my 2 boys, it’s tougher than you first think. I’ve some of the old Screwfix self-countersinking and drilling screws that do a great job in some woods but struggle in mdf. New things come onto the market all the time, so for us DIYers, learning about new and better kit, even screws is great. With a spot on pilot in mdf, you don’t need a deep thread on a screw, but you know what it’s like screwing into soft end grain 😆
I think the answer to what pilot bit to use is to take the diameter of the screw minus the thread height. Put another way, measure the part of the screw that the threads attach to, the central shaft where the threads project from.
@@jeffstanley4593 I’d say this is fine sometimes. If you’re screwing big stuff together, you can end up with the screw threading in both pieces of wood, tightening, but not pulling the joint together as well as it might. Some of those old countersinking screws I’ve got, declare no pilot hole needed and definitely cut up near the shank, so tighten well. Just in tight grain, they have a tough time. The stainless versions were always shearing on me without a pilot hole and ended up getting redesigned with a strengthened shank, though I’m still wary and use an under sized pilot to give them an easier time.
As an absolute beginner, this would be very helpful! Now I understand this may not necessarily make a good longer video, so how about doing multiple shorts? Really break it down for people like me who only know the difference a nail, screw and bolt 😅
Hi Peter. I like the idea of a basic builds series. Keeping things simple is always good. I look forward to it. Also I would like to see you build something unique for your workshop. I watch a few woodworking channels and really enjoy yours for its short and sharp focus.
Thanks for showing us this budget build Peter. I wandered if you could tell me what screws you used to secure the t-track, as my festool clamps catch the screw heads and won't slide in the track. I have tried to find some screws that fit flush with the inner track without success.
Great video as always Peter. Looking forward to the “Basic Builds” videos. As I only have a very small work space and budget tools myself will be very interesting to see what’s possible. 👍
Peter, as usual advice taken. My top arrived yesterday & what i would like to know is that product you finished yours with suitable for ply. If not could you advise. Costing me a fortune your videos but the returns are well worth it. Im rubbish but what a buzz this whole journey. The community, the digging out short cuts the whole kaboohz. Many thanks for intro. Keep on.
Thanks Steven! I’ve used all kinds to protect the top - water-based poly, clear varnish, hard wax oil, Danish oil, beeswax - and never really found much difference between them, tbh. Use whatever you have - just remember to clean out the holes with a benchdog before it dries! You’ll thank me later! 😂👍
Thanks for the video, the channel, and absolutely everything you post… I am looking at building exactly that to have it stored and use it in my garden when I need it. Quick question(s): What about an overhang on the short side? Any particular uses for that? Also, If I were to use trestles that I already have to go underneath. How you you secure them to the top and still be able disassemble? Thanks again for your content
Thanks! The overhang is for any time you want to clamp a workpiece to the bench using eg regular clamps instead of rail clamps through the holes; if you feel An overhang in the short side would be beneficial to you, it’s simple adjustment to make. 👍
@Peter Millard I'll be looking forward to your video about it. While I'm waiting I can gather up the various parts and pieces I'll be needing to build the bench!
Hi Peter, I have had an MFT (fake) top for about 6 years now. I was recently looking for a replacement which meant the power of the Internet threw up your video when I just opened UA-cam. I’ve got no idea what the t track and the sides do but I’ll be looking into that as I’m sure it’s going to be helpful. I like the idea of the dog locks so I’ll be making some of those. I’ve got a dewalt plunge saw, so I’ll go and see if I can find a small length of track for it. The track I have is an 1800mm one. Thanks for the video I’ll definitely be checking out some more via your channel.
![DIY MFT with Ikea Curtain Track [video 487]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/223QALIbnRc/mqdefault.jpg)
![3 MFT Rail Hinges [**Gifted/Ad][video 494]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/ywQoSh7G8KE/mqdefault.jpg)
Rag 'n' Bone Millard!! I like it 👍
Haha! You taught me everything I know Keith! 😂 👍
Whats next Ten Minute Brown?
Basic builds are exactly what I'm here for. Expensive tool builds are fun to watch but budget tool builds are what make me head to the shed and start projects.
What I enjoy about low cost, simple builds (and videos) like this is they lay the foundation for future projects as skills improve and tools increase.
Love how you are turning the expensive world of high-end tools on its head a bit!
Haha, thanks! Love a cheap tool me! 😆 👍
Love the idea of basic builds! Looking forward to them!
Thanks! 👍
Me too!
Me three.
Thanks Peter for another excellent video. I’m now retired and living in Orlando,Florida having had my own business for 40+ years making fitted furniture. How I wish I was working again, if for no other reason than being able to utilise your great ideas. My working life, although treasured, could have been made that much easier. I’ve nothing but admiration for your skill, your content and the relaxed way in which you present it. My very best wishes and long may you continue to inform and entertain us.
Thanks Bryn! 👍🙌
Hey Bryn, I have a question for you, do you have any recommendations as to where contractors get their lumber in Orlando? I’m getting into wood working and I’ve seen a lot of people recommend only getting your wood from a lumber yard as you’ll get better wood for cheaper, but idk where i should go
Thanks!
An excellent (slight) change of direction for the channel. Hooked!
Thanks! 👍
I like the basic concept and showing how most can do it in a backyard
Looking forward to the basics builds! This type of content makes me realize that builds can be so much easier and affordable if you want to. Inspires me to not overcomplicate shop projects. I’m very interested in seeing you routing a t-slot. I wonder if they provide enough strength to clamp to. I’ve wanted to try this, because it seems so easy compared to store-bought t-tracks.
Thanks! Yes, I think as makers we do tend to make things complex for ourselves, sometimes! I’m also interested in the t-slot cutters, because I’m also curious about the strength aspect! 👍👍
It's a great idea for a series - I'm really looking forward to it
Finally am good starting video. Not needing an ready workshop to build your workshop is highly welkom 👍
Loved this video. As someone without a workshop or shed this has inspired me to build one of these. Thanks so much.
Thank you! 🙌👍
Same here and absolutely agree.
I'm going to start gathering up the supplies and give this a go later on in the summer too. Think I may make the dogs out of dowels but otherwise it's going to be basically the same.
Thankfully there's an IKEA not too far away!
Dunno how often i've watched this video now.
Always a pleasure. No fancy tools needed, a drill, entry lvl saw - great 🍻
Thanks Michael! 👍
Truly my favorite channel for woodworking. Appreciate the ideas and advice you give!
Thought I could offer you a beverage! Really appreciate ALL your videos. Outstanding production as well as top-notch information.
That’s very generous of you Mike, thank you very much! If you’d care to shoot me an email through the contact form at 10MinuteWorkshop.com I’ll send you links to a couple of members videos, with my compliments! Thanks! Peter. 👍👍
Having just retired and taking up a new hobby of wood working to keep my mind ticking, I would love to see some basic builds.
Watching this video has shown me that to build something so useful you don't have to own the most expensive tools. I really enjoy your videos but could never justify expensive tooling for a hobby. This is a game changer for me. Thank you Peter.
Thanks Steve! 👍
Yes indeed this video is ideal for those people, which is most of us, who are not carpenters but DIYers. There is a much bigger need for this type of video than those with people whose domino tool alone is worth more than most DIYers entire kit. There’s people with 10-30 thousand dollar shops trying to show DIYers how to make cabinets for example. The reality is that anyone with tens of thousands in tools is likely to already know how to build cabinets.
But this video is great in that it starts at a base level and tries to promote ingenuity and skill above sheer raw high end tools. Great idea and well executed Peter.
Thanks Michael! 👍
Yet another very clever design. I nearly fell off my chair, when you made the bench dogs using the conduit. It's so simple and does the job.
Thank you! 👍
ua-cam.com/video/7_1I4zv_V2Q/v-deo.html Pop up conduit bench dogs from Small Space Creation channel.
Love that plunge saw rail bench dog jig, genius! Thanks for showing that a woodworker with your level of experience can still build with simplicity. All the best from Wellington, New Zealand.
Thank you! 🙌
loving the basic builds videos. I'll be watching them from my 6x5 shed :)
Nice and cosy! 👍
6x5? Ha! Luxury! 🤣
Thanks for the great content. Many channels only highlight the fanciest tools and biggest workshops, but your videos make us normal people realize that you can be a true craftsman in any scenario. Keep it up!
Thanks! It's s tricky one; if you have the gear, then you'll want to use it, but I 100% understand the frustration when a UA-camr finishes something with a few thousand's worth of power tools then turns to the camera and says "...of course, you can also use a hand plane..." 🤦♂️
@@10MinuteWorkshop I agree. I love a new fancy tool as much as the next person, so I think you're doing a good job balancing content. No complaints here
Absolutely awesome teaching techniques. I very much appreciate these beginner start needs with minimal tool access. Thank you, so very much. American girl beginner with some hope.
Thank you! 🙌👍
You have completely converted me from the evolution mitre saw and rage table saw - to the track saw. Thank you! Yes - I am going to build this sort of table, as I have to make ideally looking 12 steps on my single stringer staircase. Your video about dowel pins gave me enough confidence to spend £1000 on ash and to start glueing. Thank you!
This is the show I’ve been waiting for. This is for the weekend DIYer who isn’t a pro, can’t afford pro tools, but would like to get better at building beyond rough carpentry. Thanks Peter.
👍👍
With some of the videos I've seen on your channel, you have convinced me that my future bench top will be MFT. I'm currently working on a foldable workbench with that system and I like it is just that is so small and I know I can make it better which I'll do, I went today and bough some new bench dogs and I'm also using my regular workbench but I would definitely have to make the work bench that you have made in a near future. Thank you so much, I love your channel!
Thank you! 👍
What a pain the vac hose can be, watching your video Peter I'm going to try a hanging system wit a washing line, cheers.
Edit, and working in the garden when it's windy. 🙄
The usual high quality of production and information! I have a table saw, but you've convinced me that for large sheet goods, taking the tool to the work is a much better and safer option. So I've just bought a Mafell tracksaw (it's only money), and have re-watched most of your tracksaw videos before purchase. Now of course I'm going to have to build an MFT-style bench. Even my wife says your videos are easy to listen to... Hope she doesn't take up wood-working! Looking forward to your new series. Thanks and all the best.
Thank you! Mafell’ as great saw. 👍👍
You can make t track by using 2 bits of flat bar screwed over a hole so it overhangs to provide a slot tile edging also works if screwed in place
Brilliant video! Makes things seem so much more achievable for us novices. Thanks so much!
Thanks! 👍
Great idea about the Basic Builds series Peter. Looking forwards to it.
Thanks! 👍
Thanks again Peter I really enjoyed that and show what can be done on a budget and a size to suit someone starting off in woodworking. Almost makes me wonder about a basic builds workshop…
Loved this concept. As you said can't build a bench without a bench. So many UA-cam videos are making an upgrade bench, router table or what ever when they already have a bench or router table to make the new one. I experienced this making a torsion box bench. These video's will really help people starting out. Well done and cheers mate 👍
Thank you! 👍
Looks brilliant and just what I need for my workshop will have it to fit on my Stanley workhorses
Excited about the series. A big thanks for this helpful/informative and well-presented content.
Maybe, some people complain about video quality outdoors, but it is better quality than required for learning something that is a huge help. Very well presented and easy to follow.
Thanks very much for South Africa.
A month too late! I built my own MFT bench after watching your track saw series (best thing I have watched on UA-cam) and I'm now cutting up square and straight 18mm MDF as if I was born to it.
No, you were a month too early, Paul! 😂 And thanks - great to hear it's working out for you. 👍👍
Genius idea for a series. Just building my first hobby shop, compulsory viewing, thank you.
Thanks! 👍
I love this idea, and it's going into my shop the first spare weekend I have (after I DIY the actual MFT top, and I've found the video for that)!
The though struck me, and I haven't searched comments, so, my apologies if I'm late to the game, but, put a piece of 3 or 6mm across the bottom (making this an actual box), cut a port in the side for a shop vacuum, et, voila, integrated dust collection!!!
You’ll need an extractor the size of a jet engine to create enough draw across a surface that size, with holes that large, unfortunately! 🤷♂️👍
@@10MinuteWorkshop I live in the aircraft capital of the world (Wichita, KS). I can get a jet engine ;-)
This is exactly what I need to modify my existing built-in bench in my garage. I was considering cutting mft holes in the existing surface but did not relish the sawdust falling through into the storage areas below. Thank you for showing how to do it without spending a fortune.
Hi Peter
Hope you are well my mate, I just love how you make things look so easy. Thanks mate 👍👍👍👍
Cheers Carl! Yep, all good here, hope you are too! 👍
basic build idea is excellent. please keep the series up. perhaps some tool storage etc?
Thanks! Will do! 👍
Love this Peter, thank you. Nice to see Ikea shelving still has a place in the Millard household (well, garden). Happy to take your Festool stuff off you now you've progressed to Macallister.
Haha, thanks! 😂👍
Great build peter, i tinker in my shed but being disabled money can be tight so its good to see budget type projects that are made with basic tools, looking forward to seeing more in the future. Thanks for sharing this project.
Thank you! 🙌
What an excellent video, and so refreshing to see the basic builds concept of videos coming. Thanks Peter, really appreciated.
Thanks Steve! 👍
Enjoyed this. Coming around to the idea that I need something to make square cuts quickly and reliably using the track-saw. No dedicated workshop sadly, only a chaotic family garage, so something like this might be just the ticket for me.
Love the idea of basic builds with basic tools so look forward to those. Given that routers can be pretty inexpensive, t slot routing would be interesting too.
Looking forward to more videos in the series Peter!
I like the idea of adding a new tool to each build to increase capabilities and workflow. Shelves, cabinets and small storage projects like drawers and organizers are great "basic" projects. A step-stool should be one of the next projects; it functions as a tool as well as a project. 🙂
Keep it up! Even as an experienced woodworker (18 years), I'll enjoy the series.
Thank you! Yes, I have a set of steps planned, too! 👍
Love that Peter. Fantastic idea, as always. Gardens looking well too lol...
The new series sounds brilliant. Can see that doing very well. Look forward to those. 👍👍
Cheers Barry! 👍
Really like the basics idea. Loved the simple build MFT. Looking forward to seeing how well it works out. Thanks for the share.
I have no issues using routed t-slots. Great for stop blocks and featherboards. I only do light clamping to hold down parts. I tend to route them deeper than aluminum channel to give them more strength.
I've only used wood and mdf. I was concerned about plywood delamination. That would be a good test to try.
Cheers!
Thank you Peter - another helpful video. Pleased to read that you will be at Makers Central - look forward to seeing you there
Thanks John! Yes, I'll be there, look forwards to it! 👍
Nice job mate. I think the thing about woodwork or have a go DIY, is it seems like an accessible endeavour at first. Then the realisation of cost of tools and materials kicks in! Great vid to help people get started who don't have a workshop and few tools.👌 Always worth a scrounge for materials too. Do ask if it's off a site though folks! They'll usually be glad to get rid but don't just take it.
Cheers Stew! Oh yes, always ask; just because it looks like it's on the scrap pile, doesn't always mean it's scrap! 👍
@@10MinuteWorkshop Yeah, I've also seen site managers completely lose it with people taking stuff even if it's skipped. Best avoided 😄 Can't remember why now but on large corporate builds there were tight rules on giving materials away (as in not don't). Daft but doesn't hurt to ask.👍
Thanks Peter. That's a whole lot more conducive to my budget.
Great Job as always. Here in the stats we don't have the 20mm PVC pipe, but you could substitute some benchdogs from Etsy for about $25.
This is great. I enjoyed both builds. I do have the Microjig thingy and would like to see how you would do that. Always great videos. I look forward to the next build.
Really like this build. Now trying to work out the best way to mount it on the top of my Workmate in a way that won't impede dog hole access for clamps etc. Trickier than i had hoped!
Thanks! That is tricky; are you planning on a frame around it? That will give enough height for clamps - dogs aren’t generally a problem unless you want to fix them from underneath. You could add a base to it - like the Paulk bench - then fix a batten across the base and clamp that in the jaws of the workmate - you’ll need to notch the batten to get it over the workmate framework, but it works well. We used to use workmates as ‘set’ tables back in the photographic days using the ‘batten & board’ trick, and they were perfect for the job. HTH. P
Great project Peter. Looking forward to the Basic Builds.
Thanks! 👍
In my part of the world it seems all the CNC places have looked at Festool's prices and just set that as their price, plus shipping of course. Makes all the fancy jigs to make your own seem a much better deal, specially if you are likely to have to make a couple over the years.
Excellent Peter you really had me at the intro. First class skill, imagination and taking a brilliant idea and stripping it right back is shear genius. Well done and like all others can’t wait for the “basics build series” to unfolding.
Thanks David! 👍👍
Great video Peter, you've convinced me to have a go
Truly an economical MFT top.Yes I would like to see some Micro Jig applications.As always,a very good video.P.S. loved the shot of your patio area
Great idea, Peter. Nicely executed.
Excellent, looking forward to this series!
Hi Peter, you mention that by allowing an overhang this will reduce the length of the crosscut (then you post text on the video "if using a fence"). Can you explain why that would be the case as I am being a little slow this morning.
Sorry, badly worded whilst speaking off the cuff. What I meant was that if you have the overhang, then you won’t be able to mount a rail hinge (not without taking up benchtop space) so you’ll be left using either the dog locks or rail dogs, both of which will reduce the cut width to the max. distance between the dog holes, or more if you use a fence as this will sit in front of the last row of dog holes. Hope that makes sense! P
@@10MinuteWorkshop It does and thank you for taking time to answer people's comments.
What is the purpose of the t track on the front face? How will that be useful? Perhaps you illustrated this in an earlier video, but I missed in this one what it’s purpose is. Thank you.
It’s used for clamping, and for attaching the rail hinge front support.
Excellent ! Really enjoyed this one. Plenty of food for thought in modifying my bench set up.
I did buy the UJK parf guide system so I could basically build my own size top plus they are fun to make. But great build it was nice to see a sunny day where you are. Thanks for sharing love your channel and content
Thanks! I have the UJK Parf guide to try out, along with a couple of other jigs. 👍
absolutely tremendous Peter looking forward to more basic builds 👊
Thanks! 👍
As always informative and interesting. Basic builds is a good idea.
Very nice. I would to see a cabinet build video. I'm going to be making a tall narrow cabinet soon & would like some tips
My last build & Install had a tall skinny cabinet in it, playlist here - bit.ly/MyLastBuild
I love this minimum toolkit mind set. Thanks a bunch.
This minimalistic build is fantastic Peter! I have built my own mft’s and get caught up with a lot of bells and whistles and have thought that a minimal setup like yours would be a great jobsite setup
Thanks! It’s surprisingly lightweight as well - much lighter than the birch ply version! 👍
Love Mrs 10 minutes cameo at 2.05 😂
😂👍
I've just (last week) grabbed the matchfit pro kit and it's a complete game changer for me. It's trivial to use, set the height with the included guide, set your fence, route away. Done. The slots are much stronger than the t-slot cut (with router bit) track,Yeah, it's not really cheap but then I was looking at buying a table for my drill press (£130 :( ), ended up buying matchfit and making my own. Honestly, took me 10 minutes to make the base with slots and a matching fence. The hardest part of the matchfit system was extracting the router bit from its case (it took me longer than making the table!). I'd recommend it wholeheartedly. I'm about to add the dovetail 'tracks' to my home made mft, in between the dogholes for endless clamping opportunities.
.
The only real downside is having to buy their clamps but given you can add these tracks to pretty much anything I'm not sure it's a giant problem. You can also get little plastic parts for making your jigs without using the clamps.
Beginning to sound like an advert now so I'll stop..
Great video, again, though Peter.
Good to know, thanks Andy! 👍
Awesome. To the max.
Love the idea of a basic build starting from scratch with workbench and using each tool to make each successive one
On an unrelated note, I'd love to see your take on a DIY track hinge using fire door hinges as some on the ukworkshop forum have done. It would be a logical evolution of this cheap and cheerful workbench
Thanks! The old ‘fire door hinge trick’ has been around for a while; my issue with it is that it’s a permanent fixture. The DIY hinge I’m planning will have the rail removable much more easily. 👍
@@10MinuteWorkshop this’ll be interesting, I like the simple idea of the hinges, but don’t want to drill holes in my expensive rail 😂. I could also see this as something where Ralph @benchdogs could make a more elegant solution of the z fold, I have sent him an email about it, but be good to see your take on it too.
@@10MinuteWorkshop nice, looking forward to it
@@idlersdream826 Benchdogs are working on a rail hinge I believe.
Great build Peter,how about a raised Dog feeding stand build?
😂👍
Hi Peter. What was the material you used as a sacrificial board when using the plunge saw?
Scrap MDF. 👍
The videos are really informative and enjoyable. I can see that you use a plunge saw on track extensively for a large variety of jobs. I have a makita 165mm circular saw and would like to start doing some small woodworking projects for the house. Would you recommend getting a track saw (like the Mac Allister in the video) or a medium size router first ? Cheers.
Thanks! I find a track saw generally much to use than a circular saw with infinitely better dust collection, so if you’re working out of a smaller space then that would be my first choice. Routers are wonderful tools and I have a few, it they don’t get used as much as the saw. 👍👍
Crates and a board! I love it. I have so many (not so) fond memories of making do out in the field. 😂😂 But seriously, it's refreshing to see someone--especially of your calibre--demonstrating how a simple setup and basic tools can be sufficient. This is going to be a great series!
Thanks John! It was a bit like going back to my handyman days, lol! Worked out OK though! 👍
I think that was a really kind thing to do for all the guys working off of milk crates in their back garden. It gives people inspiration to have a go rather than telling themselves they can't because they don't have this or that.
Can I ask why you do a double T Track at the front?
Thanks! Re the double tap-track, as I think I said in the previous vid (DIY workshop MFT) it’s just to increase the clamping opportunities. For example, being able to have a front rail support stop in the top t-track without it affecting clamps in the bottom slot. You don’t have to do this, but I find it useful - I only had one length of t-track so I left scope to add another in later. 👍
@@10MinuteWorkshop Thank you Peter, had I of thought this through I should have been able to work that out, it is Friday!!
I must have missed the DIY workshop MFT video so will go catch up.
Love it Peter at 2mins 14seconds "there you go, budget MFT done" had to laugh. A bit too basic !!!. Really love the build,just the thing that a tracksaw newbie like me needs,thanks so much for doing this,BTW Keith Brown gave a shoutout to Small space creations recently,he has a real good thing on doing benchdogs on the cheap.Thanks once again,come payday,this is on the list,Take care
Nice job Peter I need one in my life
The LidAldi MFT! Thanks mate, I have an old metal framed table I use for butchering timber, can only be improved by the Lidaldi MFT!
😂😂 10MinuteMFT!
Another great build, I’m really looking forward to making one myself. I’m not sure if you already done so, but if not, I think telling beginners about the basics of piloting holes and screwing stuff together would be invaluable. I see beginners drill too large or too small pilot holes for the screws, especially in MDF and then too big in softer timber. Also see clearance holes too big/small in the outside material. Screw choice obvs makes a big difference, so for beginners really confusing. Nothing worse for them than finding a screw binds before driving home or continually turns 👍🏻
Thanks Andy. That's an idea I've had on the back-burner for a while, but thought it might be too basic. But I still keep coming back to it! I always struggle with the translation issue too - a 4mm pilot for a 5mm screw won't help if you think in terms of 'inch and a quarter by eight...' Still, there's definitely something in it. 👍
@@10MinuteWorkshop yeah, I find when teaching my 2 boys, it’s tougher than you first think. I’ve some of the old Screwfix self-countersinking and drilling screws that do a great job in some woods but struggle in mdf. New things come onto the market all the time, so for us DIYers, learning about new and better kit, even screws is great. With a spot on pilot in mdf, you don’t need a deep thread on a screw, but you know what it’s like screwing into soft end grain 😆
I think the answer to what pilot bit to use is to take the diameter of the screw minus the thread height. Put another way, measure the part of the screw that the threads attach to, the central shaft where the threads project from.
@@jeffstanley4593 I’d say this is fine sometimes. If you’re screwing big stuff together, you can end up with the screw threading in both pieces of wood, tightening, but not pulling the joint together as well as it might. Some of those old countersinking screws I’ve got, declare no pilot hole needed and definitely cut up near the shank, so tighten well. Just in tight grain, they have a tough time. The stainless versions were always shearing on me without a pilot hole and ended up getting redesigned with a strengthened shank, though I’m still wary and use an under sized pilot to give them an easier time.
As an absolute beginner, this would be very helpful! Now I understand this may not necessarily make a good longer video, so how about doing multiple shorts? Really break it down for people like me who only know the difference a nail, screw and bolt 😅
Like it so much I have already purchased the MFT top!
Peter is just a genius
Hi Peter. I like the idea of a basic builds series. Keeping things simple is always good. I look forward to it.
Also I would like to see you build something unique for your workshop. I watch a few woodworking channels and really enjoy yours for its short and sharp focus.
Thanks for showing us this budget build Peter. I wandered if you could tell me what screws you used to secure the t-track, as my festool clamps catch the screw heads and won't slide in the track. I have tried to find some screws that fit flush with the inner track without success.
They were 3mm x ~20mm chosen specifically for their low profile. 👍
@Peter Millard Thanks Peter
Great video as always Peter. Looking forward to the “Basic Builds” videos. As I only have a very small work space and budget tools myself will be very interesting to see what’s possible. 👍
Nice build. You make it look so easy.
Thanks. And sorry about that, that’s the last thing I intend; it’s never easy, it just gets less difficult the more you do it. 👍👍
Peter, as usual advice taken. My top arrived yesterday & what i would like to know is that product you finished yours with suitable for ply. If not could you advise. Costing me a fortune your videos but the returns are well worth it. Im rubbish but what a buzz this whole journey. The community, the digging out short cuts the whole kaboohz. Many thanks for intro. Keep on.
Thanks Steven! I’ve used all kinds to protect the top - water-based poly, clear varnish, hard wax oil, Danish oil, beeswax - and never really found much difference between them, tbh. Use whatever you have - just remember to clean out the holes with a benchdog before it dries! You’ll thank me later! 😂👍
Great, straight forward build, nice garden by the way 😁. The 20mm conduit is so handy for many jigs & fixtures etc. 👍
Thank you! While garden needs re-doing as the decking’s been down 20-odd years and is starting to go, sadly. 🤷♂️👍
In my youth we made crossbow from them
Brilliant. I'm just starting out and I don't have a bench. Now I know how to build a bench without a bench.
👍
Saw Small workshop Guy use a tslot cutter after using the matchfit dovetail cutter and was able to use tslot and the matchfit clamps in the same slot.
That plastic pipe as a bench dog is a genius cost saving idea!
Good morning from Boerne, Texas. Always look forward to your common sense projects. BTW, my wife is from Norwich, she likes to hear the accent!
Thank you, and best wishes from London! 👍
Good morning from Taylor Texas Joseph!
Thanks for the video, the channel, and absolutely everything you post… I am looking at building exactly that to have it stored and use it in my garden when I need it. Quick question(s): What about an overhang on the short side? Any particular uses for that? Also, If I were to use trestles that I already have to go underneath. How you you secure them to the top and still be able disassemble? Thanks again for your content
Thanks! The overhang is for any time you want to clamp a workpiece to the bench using eg regular clamps instead of rail clamps through the holes; if you feel
An overhang in the short side would be beneficial to you, it’s simple adjustment to make. 👍
Really like this one, about to build somthing similar. On a tight budget, as a lot of us are and will be😬 Looking forward to the next in the series 👍
I have wondered whether using a router to cut a slot in place of the T-track, if it would be strong enough to hold.
I think I'm going to be finding out! 👍
@Peter Millard I'll be looking forward to your video about it. While I'm waiting I can gather up the various parts and pieces I'll be needing to build the bench!
Great video, and a fantastic idea to have a basics build series
Thanks Nico! 👍
Hi Peter, I have had an MFT (fake) top for about 6 years now. I was recently looking for a replacement which meant the power of the Internet threw up your video when I just opened UA-cam. I’ve got no idea what the t track and the sides do but I’ll be looking into that as I’m sure it’s going to be helpful. I like the idea of the dog locks so I’ll be making some of those. I’ve got a dewalt plunge saw, so I’ll go and see if I can find a small length of track for it. The track I have is an 1800mm one. Thanks for the video I’ll definitely be checking out some more via your channel.
Thanks and welcome! The t-track in the sides is for any kind of clamping where you want the workpiece perpendicular to the benchtop. 👍
@@10MinuteWorkshopthat sounds a great amd very useful idea. Which clamps fit in the t slot? I’m going to make one (when I’ve got time) 👍🏽
Actually, I’ve got some festool clamps that might fit in those slots. At the moment I just use them to hook though the holes in my table top.
I think you will like the Micro Jig dovetail clamps. All you need rather than an expensive T slot is a dovetail router bit.