Short description
Every workbench should allow the woodworker to easily work the edges, faces and ends of boards, however most benches built during the last 100 years fail on at least one of these tasks. Workbenches is the only book that shows the reader how to design and build a good workbench and most importantly, how to use it in their shop for all sorts of tasks. This book dives deep into the historical records of the 18th and 19th centuries and breathes new life into traditional designs that are simpler than modern benches, easier to build and perfect for both power and hand tools. Two venerable designs are provided as basic skeletons and the knowledge presented shows woodworkers how to design custom workbenches, perfect for their style and method of woodworking.
Long description
Every workbench should be able to easily work the edges, faces and ends of boards. But most benches built during the last 100 years fail on at least one of these tasks. This book dives deep into the historical records of the 18th and 19th centuries and breathes new life into traditional designs that were fantastic to use. These old-school benches are simpler than modern benches, easier to build and perfect for both power and hand tools.The reader will learn the fundamental rules of good workbench design that have been largely forgotten. The book explains all of the complex vises and ways of holding work so the reader can understand what they do. And it shows you how to use this knowledge to design a workbench any reader will love, using two venerable designs as basic skeletons. Unlike other books on the topic, this one isn't a tour of unusual or beautiful workbenches. Instead it's essential reading for anyone who likes to get their hands dirty in their workshop.