Replies

1. 
   AdamCherubini | Apr 16, 2007 04:53am | #1

   I think it depends on how you work and specifically what you do.

   Background; I think the folks Landis talked to didn't spend much time planing boards. So for them, having these high benches (high as defined as over palm height) was perfect. Perfect for reviewing plans, maybe marking something out or drinking coffee.

   The problem with a high bench is that you can't get your upper body over the plane. So we hear guys like Rob Cosman (whose bench appears to be very high in his planes video) talking about the advantage of a heavy plane.

   I do the opposite. I use light planes and have a bench that's 1-2" under palm height. That lets me get over my work and control the stock under the plane.

   I work on 2 different benches regularly (and they have different heights) and I have changed my bench height (on my current bench) 3 times (lowered each time).

   My advice to to try it somehow at palm height. Also, check out my blog (artsandmysteries.com) for the section on the English Method.

   Adam

1. 
   dherzig | Apr 16, 2007 05:04pm | #2

   Thank you for the clear and complete answer. I even checked out your blog link and it was also very helpful. For the last year or so I have gone completely to hand tools to prepare all of my lumber and even sold off my planer and jointer. It has been most satisfying. But flattening and cleaning up  a glued-up table top has been a push. I will be lowering my bench to see if that eases the situation.

   Thanks again for the response.

1. 
   DustyGeorge | Apr 16, 2007 05:21pm | #3

   Hi,

   Someplace I saw it suggested to build a platform to work from to see what height feels best at the workbench.

   GeorgeYou don't stop laughing because you grow old.  You grow old because you stop laughing. - Michael Pritchard<!----><!----><!---->

   <!----><!---->

1. 
   dherzig | Apr 16, 2007 05:58pm | #4

   Two great minds working together. I was just in the process of laying that out before going to the lumber yard.  Before permanently cutting off the legs from the bench. I figured that it would be difficult to duct-tape them back on if it didn't work.

   Thanks for the reply.