Choosing a Woodworking Bench
Deciding on a woodworking bench is an important step when crossing over from occasional DIY enthusiast to all out hobbyist. The woodworking bench says you are serious about woodworking and it also makes working on projects a lot easier when you have a designated space to work and lay out all your tools. Some people choose to make their own woodworking bench while others choose to simply buy one.
Making your own bench can be quite a feat if you are new to woodworking and although it is in theory cheaper, mistakes can be costly. Carefully evaluate your level of skill and commitment to such a project. If you are not sure that making a bench on your own is a good idea then don't. Wait until you have the right amount of knowledge before you try something like this.
Materials are Everything
When choosing your woodworking bench, you should make sure that it is made from as sturdy a wood as possible. You are going to have heavy tools on this surface and it needs to withstand the weight of your project as well. Rubber wood is a popular choice because of its sturdiness and it is also an affordable wood to use.
Some woodworking benches come with vises. This is an add on feature that is handy if you don't already have vises. If you do then opt for one without a vise but one that has enough holes dug into it to accommodate vises and other tools that you might want to have on your woodworking bench.
Look at the height of the bench; is it comfortable for you to work at? You will be standing in front of your bench for long periods of time; if it is an awkward height for you then your woodworking becomes uncomfortable and brutal on the back.
Storage space is also another issue when you are looking at a bench for your workshop. Does your woodworking bench have storage for tools? This is especially important if you don't have a big working area and need to maximize storage space.
The size of your bench is another factor to think about. You might think that the bigger the better to give you more surface area to work on. This is great if the area you're working in has ample space that will allow you to move around the woodworking bench easily. If it doesn't then down size, you need to be able to utilize the bench properly.
