Hi Gary,
I’m a new woodworker and I’m wanting to build my own bench. I was going to start building the bench that was featured in your winter 2003/2004 tools and shops issue with the article about the essential workbench. I have ordered a couple of books that will arrive soon regarding design and construction..hoping this will help my decision. I then saw John White’s NFB just today and started to think about other options.
My question to you is this..being a beginner and wanting to make sure I build something that will have everything I need..what style of bench would you recommend.
I know that there may not be an absolute universal answer but I’m looking for some veteran advise.
Thank so much.
Russell
Replies
Russell,
A work bench design is no easy matter. It ultimately depends upon what type of work you'll be doing. A chair maker can have a much lower bench than a carver. And their clamping needs are different as well. Make sure of these things: the bench is stable and will not move as you work on it. The bench is heavy enough that it will take two of you to move it. The bench is at the right height for comfort and ease of use. The surface is flat, can be flattened, or can be shimmed to be flattened. Your vises hold every type of work that you run into.
I currently work on a trestle style bench with two quick action vises mounted on the same side for working on long stock. It's filled with bench dog holes and bench dogs so I can push against them when hand planing. It's fairly tall so I don't have to bend over and can see things well. Good luck. Gary
Dear Gary,Thanks for your reply. After I sent you the question I realized that it was one of those queries that is hard to answer because of so many different factors involved. ie type of woodworking done, preferences of the woodworker etc. I appreciate you getting back to me and your suggestions are great for any workbench.Thanks again Gary.Russell
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