Benchwork

by Michael Pekovich A well-designed workshop makes every project easier—and few woodworkers are better equipped to help you create one than Michael Pekovich. During his long tenure at Fine Woodworking magazine, Pekovich has visited workshops around the world, learning from skilled craftspeople and bringing the best ideas about benches, tool storage, cabinets, and shop organization back to his own Connecticut shop. In Benchwork, Pekovich distills those years of experience into practical guidance for creating a workspace that is efficient, comfortable, and beautiful. He explores everything from workbench design and hand-tool storage to tool chests, wall cabinets, shooting boards, bench risers, and other fixtures that can make time in the shop more productive. Rather than prescribing one “right” way to work, Pekovich explains the thinking behind his choices and offers alternatives for different working styles. The goal is to help you make informed decisions about the tools, benches, cabinets, and storage that best fit the way you work. Whether you’re setting up your first shop, redesigning an existing workspace, or simply looking for a few smart improvements, Benchwork offers hard-earned ideas you can put to use for years to come. Table of Contents Foreword 5 Introduction 8 Hand tools •Assembling a collection of tools •Essential chisels •The block plane is a good first plane •Where to begin with bench planes? •Planes for joinery •Tools for shaping •Handsaws •Filling out your kit 46 Benchwork •The unsung heroes of hand work •Shooting board is a shop staple •A pair of saw hooks •A shooting board for miters •Layout kit for dovetails •Give your work a lift •A nicer set of bench risers •Lock it down •Clamp-on vise for wide parts 94 Workbenches •Workbenches that work •Can’t I just buy a bench? •A bench worth building •Start with a solid foundation •Top off your bench •Finish the bench with a drawer case 154 A Place for Every Tool •Tool storage sets the tone •A shop centerpiece •Getting off the ground •King-size twin •Plane till and gallery •Making a home for tools 196 Storage on the Go •A tale of two chests •Case joinery •A frame-and-panel lid •Pinned-rabbet drawers •Wrapped cord handles •Add a lock for the lid •Outfitting a tool chest •A minimalist tool chest •A useful tote Afterword By Michael Pekovich "Benchwork" is 8.5" x 11", hardbound and 280 pages.