Building a custom MFT Workbench that Lifts, Clamps, Stashes & Adapts

When setting up my new shop, I had a choice: build one large workbench or split it into two specialized ones. Instead of a single, bulky workbench, I decided to build two independent workbenches, each designed for a specific purpose.

The First Workbench

This first workbench is all about lifting and workholding. The second, which I’ll build later, will focus on storage. Since lifting and storage often conflict—a storage-heavy bench tends to be bulky, while a lifting bench needs to stay light and mobile—splitting them up lets me get the best of both worlds. Additionally, having two adaptable workbenches makes my workspace more flexible.

To provide strong, rigid work-holding, I built a torsion box structure using 3030 aluminum extrusion. This prevents the MDF from sagging while also enabling side-clamping with 8mm T-slot compatibility. The slots work with Festool-style clamps and other 8mm slot-compatible accessories, making it easy to secure workpieces in multiple ways.

For the foundation, I used a Rangate lift cart, which can lift up to 300kg and has smooth, continuous height adjustability—allowing me to set the bench at any height I need for comfortable work.

Features Breakdown

Lifting

This workbench is built on a Rangate lift cart, which gives it smooth, continuous height adjustability. It can lift up to 300kg, meaning I can use it not just as a work surface, but also as a heavy-duty material lift.

With the height adjustment, I can do things like:

✅  Raise the workbench for detail work where I need better visibility.
✅  Lower it for assembly tasks that require more leverage.
✅  Set it at the perfect height for an outfeed table.
✅  Use the workbench to move around heavy lumber around the shop. The smaller size definitely helps here!

Clamping

One of my favorite things about the Festool MFT table is its side-clamping options—they make it easy to secure materials without needing a full-blown vice. But that’s a custom extrusion made specifically for Festool’s system. With this build, I wanted the same side-clamping capability, but using standard materials. That’s where 3030 aluminum extrusion comes in.

By making a few simple modifications, I can:

✅  Use the 8mm T-slots in the extrusion for side-clamping functionality, just like the Festool MFT.
✅  Secure workpieces from multiple angles, not just from the top.
✅  Avoid the need for bulky vices, keeping the workbench modular.

The best part? This also forms a torsion box, keeping the MDF top perfectly flat and rigid—so this approach solves two challenges in one go!

Stashing

When you’re in the middle of a project, you don’t always need permanent storage—sometimes, you just need a quick place to set down a tool without cluttering your work surface. That’s exactly what the torsion box space provides. It’s like having a giant tool tray built into the workbench, keeping tools within reach but out of the way.

✅  Drilling? Drop the drill inside for a second instead of balancing it on the bench.
✅  Adjusting clamps? Toss your hex key or accessories inside without hunting for them later.
✅  Keeping the surface clear? Tools stay in easy reach but off the work surface, making workflow faster and cleaner.

Instead of just being a structural element, the torsion box improves how I work, keeping everything organized in the moment.

Adapting

This workbench isn’t locked into a single function—it’s built to adapt. The 8mm T-slots in the 3030 aluminum extrusion allow for modular attachments, expanding what the bench can do over time.

Here are some examples of things you can do with the system!

✅  RUWI extension table – Instantly adds more workspace when needed.
✅  Panel Lifting Attachment - Lift large sheet goods onto the workbench top with ease.
✅  Slab Flattening Jig for Routers - The extensions allow using most of the workbench surface for flattening.

And these are just the ideas I can think of now—there’s a lot more potential to explore. The workbench will continue to evolve with my projects!

Things You Will Need

Components

• Rangate Lift Cart

Aluminum Extrusions & Fittings

• 3030 Aluminum Extrusion - 1220mm
• 3030 Aluminum Extrusion - 1000mm
• 3030 3-way Corner Cube Connectors
• 3030 Profile Connector 90 degree

Tools

• Festool TSC 55 K Track Saw - For cutting plywood & MDF sheets.
• TSO Festool Track Extension - Attach this to 1400mm Festool Tracks to make 4ft cuts easier
• Shaper Origin Handheld CNC - For milling slots in aluminum extrusion.
• Tap & Die Set - For tapping M8 holes at the ends of extrusions.
• Cutting Fluid - For tapping M8 holes at the ends of the extrusions.
• Deburring Tool - For cleaning cuts made in extrusion.
• RUWI Quick Clamp - Ø 20 mm Slot 8 - For clamping extrusion while milling slot.
• RUWI Adapter Bracket - For clamping extrusion while milling slot.
• UJK Parf Guide System - For milling 20mm dog holes on a 96mm grid.
• UJK Combined Reamer & Chamfer Tool - For reaming & chamfering 20mm dog holes.
• Foam Brushes - For applying shellac finish.

Materials

• 18mm Plywood
• 18mm MDF
• Shellac - For finishing MDF work top.

What's Next

In the future, I want to explore creating a panel lifting attachment and slab flattening jig for the workbench.

Plans

Plans are available for free download for members below.