For close work at my bench, an easily adjustable, bright light source has always been a necessity—even more so as my eyes age. Here’s a solution that works perfectly.

I started by choosing a lamp that had bright white light and low-energy LED bulbs, an adjustable arm, and a clamping base. Since my benchtop is too thick for the light’s clamp, I screwed a hardwood rail to the rear apron of my workbench to create a 2-1/2-in.-wide ledge. Using the rail, I can now position the light right where I need it by clamping it anywhere along the length of the bench.

When I don’t need the lamp, it’s easy to remove and hang out of the way, and it takes only seconds.

Jim Richey

Richard Bowen, Plantsville, CT