Replies

1. 
   MBerger | Apr 04, 2006 05:23pm | #1

   It's not essential that you set them in an exact location. The top stretcher mortise should be about 1 1/2 in. of material between the upper tenon shoulder of the leg. The bottom stretcher mortise should be about 2 1/2 in. from the lower tenon shoulder of the leg 

   If you want to build a tool chest that sits below the bench in between the stretchers, then it will be more important to place the stretchers in an exact location.

   Matt Berger
   Fine Woodworking

1. 
   HoustonHeights | Apr 04, 2006 06:30pm | #2

   How necessary are the top stretchers?  I understand that, in theory, the top stretchers are meant to reduce racking.  But if the top is fastened securely to the trestle legs and the bottom stretchers are tight, won't that be enough to avoid racking?

1. 
   MBerger | Apr 07, 2006 03:24am | #3

   I would say the top stretchers are pretty important in this workbench design. You can expect that a workbench will get a good workout over the years with all the banging and force that it takes from common woodworking tasks, and the top stetchers do a lot to prevent the bench from racking or swaying.