This project was built and designed by Nick from Rocky River Woodworks. It’s a sturdy, functional drill press table made to improve drilling accuracy, repeatability, and workspace organization—all using plywood, t-tracks, and a clever fence system.
The table features a replaceable insert, edge banding for durability, and t-tracks that allow the fence to move and lock precisely where needed. Nick walks through the entire build with tips that are easy to follow and adaptable to different shop setups.
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Why Build a Drill Press Table?
A drill press table adds valuable working surface area and control when drilling, especially for woodworking projects that require repeatable accuracy. Factory tables are often too small or lack clamping options.
Nick’s design solves that with an adjustable fence, a sacrificial insert, and t-tracks for hold-downs or jigs. These upgrades turn a basic drill press into a more versatile, precision-friendly tool.
Measuring and Prepping the Plywood Base
The project begins with selecting high-quality plywood—Nick uses birch for its strength and clean finish. After measuring his drill press, he cuts two matching panels that will form the table’s laminated base.
One panel is notched with an arch to fit around the column of the drill press. This step is done with a spindle sander after rough cutting, ensuring a snug fit that won’t interfere with the drill press’s movement or functionality.
Creating the Insert Plate Cutout
Next, Nick cuts a square hole in the top plywood layer to accommodate a sacrificial insert. This insert takes the abuse from drill bits and can be easily swapped out as it wears over time.
To make the cut, starter holes are drilled at the corners, then a jigsaw is used to cut the square. Clean edges are important here to make sure the insert sits flush with the tabletop.
Laminating the Base and Gluing Up
Before gluing the two panels together, Nick makes sure no glue will interfere with the insert space. Once the glue is applied, screws and clamps are used to bond the layers tightly.
This laminated base adds rigidity to the table and provides a clean platform for edge banding, t-tracks, and the adjustable fence.
Adding Solid Wood Edge Banding
To protect the plywood edges and improve the overall look, Nick adds oak edge banding. The pieces are cut to size and attached with glue and brad nails.
This step not only makes the table more durable over time but gives it a clean, finished appearance that holds up well in a shop environment.
Routing the T-Track Grooves
With the base complete, Nick moves on to routing grooves for the t-tracks. A straight-cutting bit is used to create the channels, set to the proper depth and width to accept the aluminum t-track pieces.
To prevent burning or tear-out, multiple light passes are made. Once the grooves are clean, the t-tracks are cut to length and secured with flathead screws.
Building the Fence
The fence is built from more birch plywood and assembled into an L-shape for rigidity. Countersunk screws keep the surface smooth, and support blocks maintain squareness throughout.
Pilot holes are drilled in the bottom of the fence to line up with the t-track bolts. This allows the fence to be adjusted forward and back depending on the workpiece size or drilling location.
Mounting the Table to the Drill Press
To attach the table to the drill press, Nick marks and drills holes in the base that align with the drill press’s original table. Brass threaded inserts are installed for a clean, removable mounting method.
Threaded bolts are used from underneath to lock the table into place. This provides a strong hold while still allowing for removal or adjustments if needed in the future.
Final Fit and Finish
Once everything is assembled, the table is sanded smooth. A light finish may be added if desired, but bare plywood with sealed edges often holds up fine in most workshop conditions.
Nick’s attention to detail throughout the build—from clean cuts to precise joinery—ensures a table that’s both durable and functional. The adjustable fence and insert system make it a valuable accessory for any drill press setup.
A Smart Upgrade for Your Shop
This drill press table upgrade is a practical project for any woodworker looking to improve accuracy and versatility. Nick’s build balances strength, simplicity, and thoughtful details that make daily use more efficient.
With just a few sheets of plywood, some t-tracks, and basic shop tools, this project is a solid way to level up your shop setup without spending much. It’s a great weekend build that pays off in years of use.
Please support Nick by visiting his website here: https://www.rockyriverwoodworks.com/.