How to Create an Easy Kids' Workbench

With just a few simple modifications, you can easily turn a basic bookshelf into a kid-friendly play workbench.
Child's toolbox and workbench

Finished Children's Workbench

"When [I'm] trying to get a project done and my 5 and 7 year olds keep getting in the way, I just find a child-safe tool and hand [it] to them so they feel like they are helping." -Facebook fan Keith Benedetti

By: Ana White

Materials Needed:

  • small 2-shelf bookshelf
  • drill
  • measuring tape
  • jigsaw
  • 1/4 sheet of pegboard
  • pegboard hooks
  • 2 sets of basic hinges

Create Doors

Measure width and heigh of bookshelf opening to determine size of doors. Cut two doors from pegboard.

Measure For the Doors

Measure For the Doors

Hang Doors

Attach doors to bookshelf with drill and hinges.

Attach the Doors

Attach the Doors

Add Hooks

Hang assorted pegboard hooks on front and inside of doors. Fill hooks with kids' play tools or, if kids are a bit older, a few not-too-sharp adult tools.

Red Kitchen Pegboard

Red Kitchen Pegboard

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