80/20 1" T Slot Rail - 20.02" Length
Aluminum - 80/20
1
Compact Aluminum Workstation – small, but mighty!
This fun-size DIY project also yields a highly useful product that’s designed to last for decades to come. The robust 80/20 aluminum system is durable, lightweight, and infinitely customizable.
In addition, this workstation is highly adjustable. This allows for a wide range of use cases and ergonomic demands. The sturdy rolling wheels and wide base also allow for all sorts of added functionality.
Also - need to attach lighting, shelving, power cords, or other add-ons? Not a problem: this design is highly customizable and reconfigurable.
This DIY project design also includes some durable “extras” like a heavy-duty ball grip mount, pulling handles, and a clear acrylic work surface. We haven’t figured out how to get it to follow us around and beep at us yet… but you might be able to!
Ideal for: home offices, workshops, small business, warehouses, and more.
If you’re ready to get started building this, just follow the simple steps outlined below.
Step 1
First, you’ll want to assemble the base and main support structure of your workstation.
To start, lay the materials for the base out on a flat work surface. Then, attach the three 15” rails to the insides of the 20” rails using six Angle Joints. For a clearer side view: see the Group 3 diagram below.
Next, attach the two 41” rails to the inner 15” base rail in a vertical fashion using Angle Joints. You’ll want to ensure these are close to center as possible.
Then, attach the 51.75” rail just behind the other two vertical rails, using Angle Joints (for a clear side view: see the Group 3 diagram below).
Step 2
Now that you have your base vertical support structure done, it’s time to assemble your work surface (your desk).
First, assemble the top layer of your desk frame.
To start, screw two Inside End Joints into both ends of one 11.5” T-Slot Rail.
Then, screw one Inside End Joint into one end of two 8.5” T-Slot Rails (one Inside End Joint per 8.5” rail).
Then, assemble these three pieces into a frame using one 13.5” rail (as per the diagram). The Inside End Joints should just slide into place and tighten easily. The result should be the top layer of your rectangular desk frame (9.5” deep x 13.5” wide).
Next, assemble the bottom layer of the desk frame.
Using four Angle Joints, connect one 13.5” rail, one 11.5” rail, and two 8.5” rails into a frame just like the top one.
Finally, install two Angle Joints side-by-side on the bottom of one 13.5” rail, facing to the outside. These will connect the bottom frame of your desk to the main vertical support.
Then, install two more side-by-side Angle Joints on the top center of the upper desk frame’s 13.5” rail, facing to the outside. These will connect the upper half of your desk frame to the vertical support structure.
Step 3
Now, you can connect your newly finished desk frame to your vertical base. And the good news: you can set it to whatever height you’d like! And of course, adjust it later if necessary.
Please remember: the layer of the desk frame with the Angle Joints is the BOTTOM layer.
Step 4
You’re practically done! Time to add all the bells and whistles.
To install your acrylic panel, just drop it into place in your desk frame. It should rest securely on the Angle Joints underneath it.
The pull handles attach to your desk frame (or wherever else you would prefer). The wheels are a bit easier to install if the workstation is resting on its side. And your heavy-duty ball grip can also be placed wherever you need it.
And don’t forget the end caps!
And, that’s it! How was the build? We’d love to know.
And of course, we hope you have great fun dragging your new compact workstation around.
Enjoy!