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Reclaimed Workbench Made from Underbed Drawers

You know I love our Trash to Treasure Tuesdays and this one is easily one of my top 5 projects. Not only that, but I get to join in with a few ladies who share the same passion. Be sure to read through to see what they have to share with you as well. Okay, let’s take a peek at what I found on the curb during city cleanup. That there is about to become a reclaimed workbench DIY style. yeah!!

Underbed Drawers Before Makeover by Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

If you don’t know what that is, it’s a set of underbed drawers. Custom made out of pine and has plenty of life left to it. I can’t say enough how blessed I was to not only be able to source awesome things I’ve been sharing over the last few weeks, but it’s exactly what I asked God to help me find – wood. All I asked to find was old wood and wooden things. I’ve completed my louver door project here, my repurposed plant stand here, and last week my TV tray stand project here. So fun!

TRASH

I mean, look at this. I had to beat the Amish to what was left in our quadrant. They are lean, mean #trashure picking machines! This couple had stopped at our neighbor’s pile and I waited to snap a pic. I think they thanked me by the road apples the left at the end of my driveway. note: See the snow flying? We had some serious cold in April!

Amish Buggy with Amish Pickers during Our City Spring Cleanup | prodigalpieces.com

LET’S ROLL

Anyhoo, today is all about those set of drawers my oldest son and I hauled home and how they became a reclaimed workbench built by moi. He got his driving hours in and I got to hop out and inspect the potential loot. I will honestly say that the minute I saw the drawers I gasped and told my son, “This is going to become a workbench!” I love when inspiration strikes instantly. All I needed to do was wait for the weather to cooperate and it finally did. {{happy dance}}

Here I am with a few things cut and getting started with this belly-up beauty. It just needed some basic structure added to it to achieve the design in my head.

Upside Down Workbench Being Built by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

DIY TIME

What you see is I removed the “L” braces holding the legs so the could fit square in the recessed corners. However, I jack the legs up a bit to allow clearance for the drawers to slide in and out. I also had to rebuild the existing frame and reinforce it so it would hold nice and tight. The 1″x 4″ skirt is what made that pretty easy.

Building Workbench with Reclaimed and New Materials by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

TOOLS

Once I got the basic frame set up and attached, I flipped it over and added the bottom shelf skirt. This not only gives me a place to add a shelf, but also keeps the legs in place. In between each leg short side I added scrap 2 x 4’s as spreaders.

I can’t say enough of how much I love my tools. Remember that my motto since a teen has always been #toolsoverjewels. The sky’s the limit when you have the right equipment.

MORE TOOLS

To attach the skirt to the top of the table, I used a couple of other favorite tools, my Kreg Pocket Hole Jig and my drill to create pocket holes so I could anchor it on.

Using Kreg Pocket Hole Jig to Create Workbench Skirt by Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

My compound miter saw was best friend through this project. Just measure, line up, and cut. BAM! I love it.

Using Miter Saw to Create DIY Farmhouse Workbench by Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

Since it is only me working this project I only have one pair of hands. If you’ve ever assembled slats with pocket holes from underneath, that can be hairy.

Assembling DIY Farmhouse Workbench built by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

BUILDING

What I bought a few years ago were these Right Angle Clamps. They are like an extra hand to help me hold the board in place while I anchor it. What a lifesaver! And I want to add that JC, my husband, helped me do the math of spacing the boards. After figuring it out, my head hurt and I was nervous to waste wood making wrong cuts. Building from scratch is easier than taking something and retrofitting it. Thanks JC!

Kreg Automaxx Right Angle Clamp for Pocket Hole Project Builds by Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

Another handy gem is my jigsaw and my Kreg Klamp Trak Kit. The cordless jigsaw makes creating custom fit slats easy, and the clamps hold it nice and tight while I cut.

Ryobi Jigsaw and Kreg Automaxx Clamp Track Kit for Woodworking by Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

GETTING THERE

Bottom is complete to my reclaimed workbench and now it’s time to add the top planks. While rebuilding the underbed drawers, I also add 2 x 4’s with pocket holes to create inside drawer partitions. This is so I can anchor my top boards down without having to have screw heads all over my top surface.

Rough Assembled Workbench Ready for Top | prodigalpieces.com

There was a small gap from the hardboard top and where the planks would rest, so I used my stapler to add some bits of scrap as spacers.

Ryobi AirStrike Cordless Stapler to help build DIY workbench by Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

I cut the 1 x 6 boards to length and attached by pre-drilling from the top down around the perimeter and anchored the center parts using those 2 x 4’s I had added pocket holes too. After that, it all got a nice sanding down with my orbital sander.

Since I’m using new wood, I want to age it a bit with time-worn wear. This is fun to do with a hammer and random objects like my bucket of rusty old bolts, railroad spikes, and even an empty food can or two. I especially like using the threads of screws and bolts to make marks.

Rusty Tools to Help Build DIY Reclaimed Workbench by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

Creating Time-Worn Wear on Reclaimed Workbench | prodigalpieces.com

MORE WORK

I worked 3 straight days on this and it was actually hot, but I loved it! Getting this idea out of my head, plus being outside creating is the best. The next step was to add the finishing touches beginning with stain. Before I added the stain I went over the piece and added depth by using a watered down black paint to different places. It creates that rustic look I’m after and I have to do it before staining to get the full effect. I’ve used it many times before as seen in my faux crate drawers in my kitchen.

FINISHING TOUCHES

My choice of stain was Provincial because it doesn’t have much of an orange tint to it and has such a rich, deep effect, even on pine. I’ve used it on our reclaimed barn beam mantel and many other projects seen HERE.

Minwax Provincial Stain for Reclaimed Workbench built by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

I begin by working from the underside and then flip it up to finish. One of the finishing touches is hand-forged hardware. Aren’t these braces beautiful?! I couldn’t wait to see them on my workbench. If you’d like to get a set of your own, you can purchase them from Joaquim and his shop on Etsy called ECODECOPortugal.Hand-forged Hammered Iron Hardware for DIY Reclaimed Workbench built by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

THE REVEAL

Alright…now we’re ready to see the big reveal. How fun to finish this up and see it in place.

Fantastic Farmhouse Workbench for Kitchen, Entry, and Living Room created by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

Rustic DIY Farmhouse Workbench Console by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

This reclaimed workbench came out just as I had envisioned and that’s when I can step back and take a deep breath. sigh… Doesn’t it feel good when you can see your vision come to life?

Planked Farmhouse Kitchen Workbench or Console for Entry by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

Open DIY Workbench Drawer by Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

MORE FUN

Of course I had fun staging it with all of my farmhouse goodies too. You can even find some of these items in my shop. Take a peek! However, this reclaimed workbench can even be a TV console, entry table, shop counter and more. These tables have endless uses.

Rustic Farmhouse Kitchen Vignette with Yellow Ware, Cutting Boards, Dough Bowls by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | Shop at prodigalpieces.com

Antique Cutting Boards and Yellow Ware in Farmhouse Kitchen Vignette by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

Farmhouse Style Kitchen Workbench or Entry Console by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

Now I can’t forget about that awesome hammered hardware I showed you. Just look at ‘dem corners! {{swoon}}

Handmade Farmhouse Workbench Created by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

Rustic Pine Farmhouse Workbench with Hammered Iron Corner Braces by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

Hand-Forged Iron Hardware for Farmhouse Workbench by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

To say I had fun with this is an understatement. I love to build and get my creative juices flowing, but especially rescuing something from the trash is the cherry on top. I love me some #trashure!

Farmhouse Style Kitchen Island Workbench or Entertainment Console by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

DIY Built Workbench for Kitchen or Entertainment Console by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

As with most of my creations, this one is also available for sale in my shop (SOLD) as my home has not a lick of space to keep it. But…I would if I could!

Shop Prodigal Pieces Furniture, Vintage Finds, Handmade Goods, & Supplies for your home | shop.prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

Rustic DIY Farmhouse Workbench Console for Kitchen and Home by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

Do pin and share my DIY reclaimed workbench so that others can be inspired to get their build on too. Creating functional and beautiful decor is fun!

From curbside underbed drawers to a rustic farmhouse workbench for kitchen or console. Larissa of Prodigal Pieces loves taking trash and turning it into #trashure . Come see the DIY details at prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #farmhouse #furniture #homedecor #shopping

UP NEXT

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Likewise check out what the Trash to Treasure ladies have for you:

Trash to Treasure Tuesdays - Thrifted Makeover Fun | Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

Trash to Treasure Tuesday May 2018 | prodigalpieces.com

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  2. Artsy Chicks Rule
  3. Confessions of a Serial DIYer
  4. Girl in the Garage

While you’re at it, here are more projects like this reclaimed workbench:

Build this Easy & Affordable Pallet Compost Bin. Tutorial, plus tips on Composting by Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.comSo beautiful! Curbside oak barn siding becomes so much more when Larissa of Prodigal Pieces turns it into a reclaimed wood planter box. See the story here at prodigalpieces.com

Comments

  1. Marcia says

    It looks amazing!! Great job

    • Larissa says

      Thanks, Marcia. Got my building therapy for awhile. haha!

  2. Michele Branham says

    It looks great!

  3. JamieK says

    WOW!! This piece is absolutely Fabulous! Great job! ❤️❤️

    • Larissa says

      Thanks so much for saying so. I’m happy it came out as planned. Ya just never know sometimes! 😉

  4. Terri Austill says

    You constantly amaze me with the awesome projects you create out of what others consider trash! Love this table! You have great vision.

    • Larissa says

      To find these and give them new life was so utterly fun. Thanks so much!

  5. dodie says

    Oh my gosh is that an absolute beaute!!!! hugs

  6. Holly says

    Perfection! Provincial is my favorite stain too.

  7. Kenda says

    Oh now that is just plain awesome. I’m in lurv! Beautiful job, lady!

  8. Dana Smith says

    I really like the way this turned out, it is not only functional, but beautiful! Great job on this!

    • Larissa says

      I’m all about function over form, but this one was fun to make for both. Thanks so much, Dana!

  9. Shirley says

    Very nice transformation! I am really loving this so much! I will be hunting down some under bed drawer units as soon as I can. I need a garage bench like this just for me. Hubby has one but it’s way too high for my short body!

    • Larissa says

      Ooh…hope you score BIG! or should I say low. haha!! Thanks so much, Shirley!

  10. Elaine says

    Another wonderful transformation… I love it! And thanks for the watered-down black paint tip…I know I’ll be using that in future projects!

  11. Tracy says

    Woman you are amazing! This is such an awesome project. I too have not a lick of space but oh my this is such an amazing piece. Thank you for sharing. I also loved how you staged it. Take care.

    • Larissa says

      happy dance!! 😀 I really wish I could keep, but I have to make a living too. haha. Give me a chance to build another if I ever get the space to keep one.

    • Larissa says

      aww…hahaha! Hard to think of you being that, Marie. Just kidding. 😉

  12. Renee P says

    Larissa – I think this is my favorite thing that you have made! This piece is totally amazing! Another amazing thing how you see these projects in your head before you make them! That is a gift itself! Great job Larissa!

  13. Wendy Burchik says

    Larissa,
    You always do such a wonderful job in everything you do, I do have to say that this project made me smile so much I can’t even explain it. Thank you for sharing I just love it!
    Wendy

    • Larissa says

      You just made my day, Wendy! Thank you for that sweet hug. I needed it. 😀

  14. Heather Rose says

    WOW! (I think that about covers it. Lol!)

  15. Kaycee says

    Larissa, you never ever cease to amaze us! This is one beautiful creation, it is so useful and pretty!!! Way to go with the post details and showing us all your tools too! You rock girl!!!!

    • Larissa says

      That’s so good to hear, as it’s fun to share what I do. Thank you for the sweet smile, Kaycee!

  16. Paula says

    Wow, I’m amazed! This reveal just got better and better the more I scrolled (like a good novel). I mean it would have been good enough just to build it and leave it plain for a shop or garage. But you kept going and made this a showpiece that deserves front and center in someone’s home. The drawers make it like a beautiful dress that has useful pockets to boot! Good find, great vision and fantastic creation!

    • Larissa says

      Fantastic fun to hear! I just couldn’t wait to build it and get the idea out of my head, especially to convince my husband that it could be done and look good too. haha!

  17. Mary says

    Larissa you are the boss. I can’t believe you actually built a whole workbench around those drawers. Actually I can, because you are so talented. It is a gorgeous workhorse!!

    • Larissa says

      That made me LOL!! Yes, call me crazy, but it’s what I saw and so fun to do. Thanks, Mary!

  18. Julie Higgerson says

    I love, love, love ❤️ this for a Kitchen island ??. Unfortunately I am ‘space challenged ‘ with no room for an island in my kitchen.
    Gorgeous as usual Larissa ‼️

    • Larissa says

      You and me both, but glad to hear you enjoyed my build, Julie. Thanks so much!

  19. Lynda says

    I think this is my favorite piece of yours so far. You are awesome girl!

    • Larissa says

      It’s easily one of mine to for many reasons. Thanks for the love, Lynda!

  20. Debra Wise says

    Wow! You are so amazing! I wish I had your vision for repurposing but since I have none, I have you to thank for sharing yours and being an inspiration!

    • Larissa says

      Y’all need to talk to my husband. haha! I’m so delighted to hear it, Debra. Thank you from my heart!

  21. Donna Gonzalez says

    If I come to Ohio, could I pay you to teach me how to use ALL THE TOOLS??? You’re a rock star with the power tools.

    • Larissa says

      It would be fun! Thank you so much for the smile, Donna. My motto is #toolsoverjewels! 😀

  22. Christy says

    Girl this is absolutely freaking amazing!!! I know you will be a bit sad to see this go, but I imagine it won’t last long! One of my favorites from you for sure!! XO

  23. Kristina says

    Wow! My jaw literally dropped (really) when I scrolled down and saw the finished project! You’re workmanship is stellar. I think you should rethink not keeping it as I believe you will always regret it!

  24. Jen @ Girl in the Garage says

    Larissa this may be my favorite project of yours (that’s not a painted furniture makeover)! 😉
    So genius! With some casters underneath it could be a stunning rolling island too.

  25. Becky says

    Oh wow. This one goes in your top ten for sure! Beautiful!

  26. Cecilia from Georgia says

    This is so cool!! It looks like it came straight out of an old farmhouse! This will be hard for you to top but I have a feeling you will do it in 2019! Looking forward to your new projects.

  27. Tori says

    Oh my! I love this piece! We are currently house hunting and I can’t help but imagine pieces I will want for the different houses. This piece would look awesome in several of them.

  28. Ode' Lawlor says

    Great job! I love everything about this piece!

  29. Sonja H Hansen says

    Great use of the drawers.

  30. Marietta Walker says

    You never fail to amaze me, but this time. You floored me. I live in a log home and this would be so beautiful in it. Unfortunately, I do not have room for it. I wish I did. I would buy this from you in a heartbeat. Wow, WOW, WOWZA. You rule DIY today missy.

    • Larissa says

      You sure are fun! I wanted to keep it as well, but alas, same problem as you. sigh. One day… Thanks so much for the love, Marietta!

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Client Love

I love it! Larissa is amazing. She listened to what I wanted and then she took care of the rest! This is my second piece I've bought from her and I'm in love! I highly recommend her.

~ Laurel

Prodigal Pieces
2020-03-21T21:34:13-04:00

~ Laurel

I love it! Larissa is amazing. She listened to what I wanted and then she took care of the rest! This is my second piece I've bought from her and I'm in love! I highly recommend her.

I love this cart, it's exquisite. The item was received in extremely secure packaging, no damage to the item. The delivery person was very professional and courteous. Larissa of Prodigal Pieces is so very amazing. A rating of 10 is deserved. Thank you, Larissa.

~ Stephanie

Prodigal Pieces
2020-03-21T21:39:34-04:00

~ Stephanie

I love this cart, it's exquisite. The item was received in extremely secure packaging, no damage to the item. The delivery person was very professional and courteous. Larissa of Prodigal Pieces is so very amazing. A rating of 10 is deserved. Thank you, Larissa.

I should have left this review MONTHS ago! I absolute love this lunch bag. I honestly carry this 5 days a week. It is the perfect size! Not only can you put your lunch in it, it can also hold your book. I enjoy reading at lunch, so I have all I need in one cute bag. Thank you so much Larissa!

~ Mikki

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2020-03-21T21:43:16-04:00

~ Mikki

I should have left this review MONTHS ago! I absolute love this lunch bag. I honestly carry this 5 days a week. It is the perfect size! Not only can you put your lunch in it, it can also hold your book. I enjoy reading at lunch, so I have all I need in one cute bag. Thank you so much Larissa!

Awww…I love this sweet Cat with an attitude!! SO SO adorable! Well worth the money, and he will become a priceless treasure in my home! Thanks Larissa for always making your ideas turn into true treasures!

~ Sharon

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2020-03-21T21:45:37-04:00

~ Sharon

Awww…I love this sweet Cat with an attitude!! SO SO adorable! Well worth the money, and he will become a priceless treasure in my home! Thanks Larissa for always making your ideas turn into true treasures!

Perfect purchase from start to finish! Absolutely adorable piece so creatively thought out. Packed with the greatest of care with lightening fast delivery. Very customer-oriented and friendly crafter. Could not ask for more! Thank you!

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2020-03-21T21:52:00-04:00

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Perfect purchase from start to finish! Absolutely adorable piece so creatively thought out. Packed with the greatest of care with lightening fast delivery. Very customer-oriented and friendly crafter. Could not ask for more! Thank you!
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