Family Best Time >> Home & Garden

How to turn old furniture into a kids workbench

Introduction

Upcycle old furniture into new toys

We use a computer/printer cart to make our artboard. You can also use a nightstand, a side table, or cut out a bookshelf. The key is to make sure the piece is the right height for your child.

Step 1

How to turn old furniture into a kids workbench

Before:Lost and forgotten at the thrift store.

We found this piece at a thrift store for a few dollars..

Step 2

How to turn old furniture into a kids workbench

Preparation for painting

Paint adheres better to rough surfaces. Remove the existing top layer of the furniture piece by lightly sanding around it. We didn't sand the top because we're going to add a new work surface.

Step 3

How to turn old furniture into a kids workbench

Paint

Apply a coat of paint in a fun color. Wait until dry before determining if you need a second coat.

Stage 4

How to turn old furniture into a kids workbench

Add backup

If there is an open back to your cabinet, measure the opening and cut a piece of plywood to cover it. We made our plywood backrest about three inches higher than the table. The added inches will sit above the new work surface and be used to support the vertical board. Paint the back and let it dry..

Step 5

How to turn old furniture into a kids workbench

Make the top of the work surface

If you are adding a new top, measure and then cut the plywood so there is a small overhang on the front and one side. We made a larger overhang on one side to allow for holes to hold tools. Attach the new work surface with wood screws.

Step 6

How to turn old furniture into a kids workbench

Measure and cut pegboard

The back of the work table has a vertical piece of pegboard for hanging tools and toys. Cut pegboard to size and sand smooth edges.

Step 7

How to turn old furniture into a kids workbench

Attach backing and pegboard

Attach backing to back of unit with wood screws. Remember that the backrest should be a few inches above the top of the work surface. Hold the pegboard against those few inches and attach the pegboard to the backrest and work surface with L-brackets.

Step 8

How to turn old furniture into a kids workbench

Add hooks

Insert the store-bought pegs into the board.

Step 9

How to turn old furniture into a kids workbench

Make a place to hang a hammer

Use a drill bit to make holes in one side of the work surface top to store hammers, clamps, and drills.

Step 10

How to turn old furniture into a kids workbench

Joanne Palmisano and Susan Teare

Seal the work surface

Sand the work surface smooth and rounding off the corners. Apply three coats of polyurethane allowing to dry between coats. Add toys and have fun..