I’m getting ready to build the workbench in the latest Tools magazine, and I’m able to get some 4×3 white oak boards that will work for the legs and shorter parts of the trestle. I’m going to get maple for the stretchers and for the top. Is there any forseeable problems with mixing the white oak with the maple when I make the bottom?
Also, I’m not too sure what was meant by offsetting the dowel holes to create a draw effect. I understand the principle but where do you offset them and by how much?
Thanks,
Michael
Replies
I can't see why it would matter if you mixed the woods.
As far as the offset on the dowels its to help hold the tenons tight in the mortices. You want the holes in the tenons to be slightly (+/- 1/16th) closer to the shoulder of the tenon rather than directly in line with the holes in the mortice. The dowel may have to be beveled a bit so it will get started into the hole.
I'm sure somebody else can wirite this a bit more clearly.
Good Luck and remember, its only a workbench, have fun.
Hugh
Instead of pegged tenons, assuming you talking about the stretchers, I would suggest bolts, held by a captured nut, mortised intot eh stretcher. On my bench, in about Nov. I tighten a bit, and that snugs it up as the wood has shrunk going into the winter.
Alan
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