If you're looking to learn how to build a more complex aluminum 80/20 design, this one is for you!
Hi! I’m Eric, and today I want to show you how to build a solid and personalized workstation using 8020 aluminum. If you’re looking for a robust and adaptable workspace, this material is perfect for you. Let’s dive into why it’s ideal and how you can start building your setup.
8020 aluminum is a modular, industrial-grade material that combines lightness and strength. Its durability makes it perfect for supporting tools, monitors, and other equipment without compromising stability. Additionally, its adaptable design allows you to easily adjust height, width, and depth, ensuring a comfortable and ergonomic space for any task.
Thanks to its modular connectors, working with 8020 aluminum is like using an advanced building block system. You can cut, assemble, and secure each piece to meet your needs, creating a unique and functional workstation.
Before you begin, it’s important to plan your design. Think about the space you have available and the equipment you’ll need to mount, such as monitors, tools, or even a 3D printer. Measure the necessary dimensions to ensure everything is within reach and comfortable.
Gather basic tools for assembly: a wrench, screws, and a drill will be your best allies. 8020 aluminum kits often include connectors and fasteners, but make sure you have everything ready before you start.
1. Build the Base
Start with the base of the structure. This step is crucial as it will serve as the main support for the entire workstation. Make sure the beams are level and properly aligned. Verify that each joint is tightly secured to guarantee stability.
2. Install Supports and Surfaces
With the base complete, add the supports and work surfaces. Adjust the height to create an ergonomic space, whether you’ll be working seated or standing. If you plan to mount monitors or heavy tools, ensure that key areas are reinforced with additional supports.
3. Mount Custom Accessories
Now it’s time to add components like monitor mounts, keyboard trays, or even shelves. Thanks to the modularity of 8020 aluminum, you can experiment with different configurations until you find the most comfortable and practical setup for your needs.
4. Reinforce and Check Stability
Once assembled, check the overall stability. Adjust any connections that feel loose, and consider adding reinforcements to critical points. This is especially important if you plan to use tools that generate vibrations.
Test your workstation and make the necessary adjustments to optimize ergonomics and functionality. Small changes, such as the tilt of monitors or the height of the surface, can make a significant difference in your comfort during long work sessions.
8020 aluminum is not only robust and adaptable but also allows for future expansions. Want to add a second screen or a tool holder? It’s easy to do without needing to rebuild everything from scratch. This flexibility means your workstation can evolve with you and your needs.
Building with 8020 aluminum is a rewarding experience that allows you to create a workspace perfectly tailored to your needs. Follow these steps, enjoy the process, and soon you’ll have a workstation that will be the envy of everyone. Good luck with your project!
Is this a downloadable app?
No! It all works on the browser. It works on your phone as well as your computer!
Is it free?
Yes the app is 100% free.
Can I save my design?
Yes! You can save your design in your account.
Can I share my design?
Yes! You'll have a unique URL for every design you save which you can send to anyone! They can then see or clone the design. They cannot edit your design. You can also delete it whenever you'd like.
What materials do you support?
Crafty currently have 1000 parts across aluminum 8020, steel, wood, HVAC and PVC! Let us know if we're missing a part.
Where did the idea for this app come from?
I spent a year building an off grid farm and knew nothing about construction / plumbing / electrical work…
I saw that most people had to go the hardware store multiple times and many times they weren’t able to finish their work that day because the vendor didn’t have the part. So I thought if you can design your project beforehand, it will allow us to check for compatibility while you’re designing and then be able to send you all the parts! Much easier!
Can I connect PVC to wood, t-slot / aluminum 8020?
Yes. There are transition parts that allow you to connect PVC to wood or wood to aluminum 8020. If there is interest, we will start adding parts like motors and electrical components as well.
The idea for Crafty is to be a place where you can design your entire project with all of its components so when you want to get to building, all you need to do is order!
Do you have everything in stock?
No, not everything. We currently have about half of the parts and our goal is to little by little add more.
For the parts we don't have, we will give you a link for the provider that you can buy it from. Hopefully as the app gets more traction, we will start to carry more and more items so we can ship you everything in one set.
How do you deal with long and heavy parts (like 2x4s)?
When you have parts longer than 36" or of a certain kind (like lumber beyond a certain WxH), we just give you the dimension / exact length for you to go buy that at your local store. It doesn't make much sense to ship a 2x4 :)
Are you going to add more parts?
Yes. This current set of parts that you see on the app is our initial set. We just finished this version in late April 2023 so we’re listening to the feedback we get and will evolve the app to be the best that it can be for all of you!
Why not just use CAD?
You can! If you have all the parts downloaded already and are an expert in CAD software. Also, I would hope that your CAD software gives you a clean output of all the parts / their exact measurements.
What CAD software won't do is allow you to share the design online and allow others to see your design and specs.
Do you have tips I can follow for different materials?
Sure! Here are some basic concepts.
How to Use 80/20 Aluminum
How to Cut PVC Pipe
Can I Connect PVC Pipe with Metal Threads?
How to Connect PVC Pipe without Glue
Do you have any tutorials on how to use the app?
Yes please visit our YouTube Channel and learn about:
Crafty Amigo Tutorial: Design Your Woodworking Project!
Crafty Amigo Tutorial: How to design your DIY PVC Project!
Do you remember the first time you made something for yourself?
It’s such an empowering feeling.
Whether you're 8 or 80... have no experience building anything or you’re a veteran diyer...
Live in a tiny apartment or have a garage full of tools...
Anyone should be able to imagine → design → make things the way they think it should be done!