When you’re working in a small workshop, efficient use of space is everything. I recently bought a new drill press—one of the workbench models—but quickly realized I didn’t have enough space on my actual workbench to keep it there permanently. Instead of sacrificing precious bench space, I decided to build a freestanding drill press stand that would be mobile, stable, and offer some storage for my drill accessories.
This post covers the entire build process, including materials, design choices, and a few handy extras I added for convenience. You can watch the full build on my YouTube channel or scroll down for photos and measurements to help you get started on your own project.
The Design Goals
My goals for this drill press stand were pretty straightforward:
- Freestanding and Compact: The stand needed to be narrow and stable enough to hold the drill press securely without taking up too much floor space.
- Easy to Move and Level: I wanted to be able to roll it around the shop as needed, so I added wheels for mobility. To keep it steady when drilling, I included leveling feet for stability on uneven surfaces.
- Integrated Storage: To keep holesaws and larger drill bits organized and close at hand, I added a small toolbox underneath the drill press.
Materials and Build
For the stand, I chose 40x40x2mm steel profiles. This size offers a good balance of strength and stability while keeping the structure relatively lightweight and easy to handle.
Step-by-Step Build
- Building the Frame: I started by cutting the steel profiles to the height and width I wanted, considering both the size of the drill press and my own working height. I welded the frame pieces together, creating a sturdy structure that can easily support the drill press’s weight.
- Mounting the Top Platform: The top surface is made from a thick piece of plywood, which I mounted securely onto the frame. After positioning the drill press on top, I used bolts to fasten it directly to the plywood and the frame for a rock-solid hold, preventing any wobble during use.
- Adding Wheels and Leveling Feet: To make the stand mobile, I attached 160 mm wheels to the base of the frame. These wheels allow me to move the stand around the shop effortlessly. For added stability, I installed adjustable leveling feet, which I can use to keep the stand level on uneven floors. This combination gives me the best of both worlds—mobility and stability.
- Storage Solution: To keep my larger drill bits and holesaws organized, I added a small toolbox underneath the drill press. This not only keeps my accessories within easy reach but also maximizes the use of vertical space in the stand. No more hunting around for the right tool in the middle of a project!
Final Touches and Usage
The finished stand has turned out to be incredibly practical. It’s compact enough to fit into any corner when not in use, and the mobility lets me bring it out only when I need it. The leveling feet keep it perfectly stable, even on slightly uneven surfaces, and the toolbox has been a game-changer for keeping everything organized.
Watch the Build!
If you’d like to see the entire build process, check out my Youtube channel where I go through each step in detail. I’ve also included some photos with measurements at the end of this post to make it easier for anyone interested in replicating this project.
This DIY drill press stand has been a fantastic addition to my workshop, and it’s a great solution if you’re looking to make the most of limited space. Whether you’re building your first drill press stand or just looking to improve your current setup, I hope this inspires you to give it a try!
