A professional woodworker takes a keen look at different workbench designs and shows how to install vises and other accessories to the best advantage. 163 photos. 115 two-color illustrations Shows different kinds of workbenches, discusses vises, dogs, stops, hold-downs, tool stands, tool chests, cabinets and wood storage, and suggests four projects.

Examines workbenches from different countries and styles and provides plans and construction details for four benches

Everything in its place.... Whether woodworking is your hobby or your profession, you'll get more enjoyment and satisfaction from the craft when you have a practical and functional workspace. The Practical Workshop is your guide to setting up a sensible shop with an efficient workflow and everything you need to make the best use of your time. From workbenches to shop furniture to storage solutions, this book covers the essentials. You'll learn strategies for machine and fixture placement. You'll discover ways to streamline your operations and get plans for all the shop furniture you need to outfit your space. • Get started with guidelines for putting together a basic toolkit and some quick sawhorses. • Focus your shop around a central workbench--you'll find complete plans for two benches, a gallery of bench designs and ideas for personalizing your workbench for your specific needs. • Get helpful advice for placing machinery and instructions for building shop furniture and fixtures. Woodworking can be a respite from the bustle of daily life, especially if your shop is well-organized and your tools are where they're supposed to be. This book can help you set up a great workspace, avoid clutter and get the most out of your woodworking.

Two centuries of workbench wisdom in one book With this book, your very first workbench will do everything you need it to do--possibly for the rest of your woodworking career. Encompassing years of historical research and real-world trials, Christopher Schwarz boils down centuries of the history and engineering of workbenches into basic ideas that all woodworkers can use. • Learn how to design your own world-class workbench • Learn the fundamental rules of good workbench design that have been largely forgotten • Learn how to build an inexpensive and practical bench that hasn't been in widespread use for over 100 years • Learn how to properly use any workbench In this revised and updated edition you'll find plans for five benches--two sturdy English benches and two variations on the French Roubo, as well as a portable bench you can clamp to any solid surface. The old-school benches in this book are simpler than modern benches, easier to build and perfect for both power and hand tools. Beginning woodworkers can build any of these benches. The technical drawings are clear and show every detail. Using the step-by-step instructions, you will be amazed at how easily these workbenches can be constructed.