Most people will say, “a hammer,” “a power drill,” “a tape measure,” or “a handsaw,” if asked about what things are the most reasonable construction tools to have at home. What they don’t realize is that they’re missing one important tool - a sawhorse.
This article is specially made for you! Let's learn how to build a sawhorse the easiest way. Plus, a convenient list of all the materials you will be needing!
Contents
What Is a Sawhorse?
It is a tool that is made of two sets of A-frame legs that support a beam. A sawhorse functions as a portable work stand designed to be moved around from task to task.
And it helps to hold up a piece of material that is being cut, and it can also be utilized as a table or a simple work surface for architectural writing and measuring.
How to Build Your Own Sawhorse
If you want to be a more reliable and efficient handyman inside and outside your home, this guide is perfect for you. We hope you are as excited as we are in teaching you the easiest way to create a pair of a sawhorse. To start,
Step 1 - Prepare the Materials and Your Workspace
It is important for you to set up a workspace that will give you enough room to move around. This space should also be able to provide you easy access to your working instruments. But remember to keep children and pets away from this area as there will be safety hazards when you’re building a sawhorse.
In addition, your sawhorse-making materials are as follows:
- Drill
- Pencil
- Hammer
- Handsaw
- Measuring tape
- Wood screws (3 inches)
- Galvanized nails (16D type)
- 2x4 timbers for the legs
- 2x4 timbers for the I-beams
Step 2 - Measure and Cut Your Wood Down to the Appropriate Size
You can make use of leftover wood for this project, or you can also purchase from a local shop. Purchasing or utilizing leftovers will not guarantee that it will measure exactly as needed.
Also, markings will have to be drawn for the required length of the I-beams and the legs. On a 2x4 timber, you will have to secure six pieces of 32 and a half-inch timbers to make the I-beam. Then, eight pieces of 30-inch timbers for legs.
Marking will make it easier for you to trim the wood down and avoid making mistakes.
Step 3 - Build the I-Beams
Now, it is time to take out 12 pieces of wood screws. You will have to screw together 3 of your 32 and a half-inch timbers, forming an "I." Drilling a hole on the top and bottom of the "I" will make it effortless to put the wood screws in place.
Hammer down three wood screws in the middle, on the top and bottom of the I-beam. Put two of the screws toward the ends and the other two in the center of the beam. One beam will need only six screws in total. Repeat this step to assemble a pair.
Step 4 - Attach the Legs to the I-Beams
You will be using your 30-inch timbers and galvanized nails in this step. One I-beam will be supported by 4 pieces of 30-inch wood.
Put the foot of the 30-inch 2x4s into the uppermost part of the beam (right below the top “I” wood). Push down two nails on there so that they affix into the mid of the I-beam. Situate two nails into the leg connecting to the base of the “I” piece.
To check if your pieces are correctly attached to each other, see if your nails are in a square-like formation. Replicate so that each I-beam will have two pairs of legs. One I-beam will need a total of 16 galvanized nails, 32 for a pair.
Step 5 - Inspect for Needed Reinforcements
Congratulations! You now have a pair of DIY sawhorse. Before taking your staggering sawhorse to perform a job, you need to ensure that it is sturdy and safe to use.
Examine if the nails are pushed in completely and if the sawhorse is stable. If so, your project is ready for anything you might need it for! But, if you see that it is wobbly and not able to stand up straight and firm, you might need to adjust the nails or re-trim uneven wood.
Frequently Asked Questions
Just when you thought this guide could not get any better...
We have added a few frequently asked questions about making your own sawhorse. Feel free to read below!
The most common height for sawhorses is 30 - 32 inches. But you can always make yours longer or shorter depending on what you like or what you need it for.
No. There are other materials that can substitute wood. Some mules are made of plastic or metal.
Definitely not! A sawhorse can also be beneficial inside the house - say, for example, as a study table or a coffee table. It can also be used in outdoor recreational activities such as a picnic with the family or a weekend camping with friends.
There You Have It!
With the proper materials and this step-by-step manual, you can now be confident in constructing this valuable tool. While you’re at it, do not forget to have fun! And when you’re done, remember to leave your workspace clean. Share this guide with your friends and show them how to build a sawhorse!