My Workbench Project

[ForumMFG]

Hello All-

I am starting to build my first cabinet makers workbench.  The vertical legs are 3" x 3" hard maple, the Top is 3" x 33" x 84" hard maple, the sled base is 3" x 3" hard maple.  I've got the top all glued up and starting to work on the supports.  I have a question for you all, to attach the sled base to each vertical leg, would it be acceptable to use 3/8" dia x 6" lag screws to attach it?  I'm not into mortise and tenon yet but I do use my Domino often but I know the size of the domino's won't work well for this situation.  Can anyone recommend a method to attach the sled base to the legs? 

I will be posting pictures as I move forward.  I took some pictures of the glue up but I can't upload them.  Everytime I try to upload a picture it tells me that a error occurred.  I think it's because the file size of the picture is to large.  I either need to change a setting in the camera or I need to find software that can change the file size of each picture.  If anyone is good with this stuff, I would like to hear your comments as well.

Thank you

 

[rwdawson]

Dave,

In the Off-Topic section of this forum there is a Photography topic.  You should be able to find several threads that deal with posting pictures, including resizing them.  I would not change any file sizes in my camera because the pictures you take might be used for other purposes. That, or you might forget to go back to a larger file size when you need it for something else.

I would also give some consideration to mortise and tenon construction.  It's not that difficult.  Build a prototype, something small that you can set on a desk top or use as a child's table.  Anything that does the job.

I built two sets of legs (bases) for different bench tops that I made a long time ago.  The first one I screwed the top to the base, then plugged the countersink holes.  This bench, more of a table, actually, is a PITA to move any distance (as in 175 miles) because I don't want to take the joinery apart.

For the second project, I did mortise and tenons and made the mortises a little wide for the rear legs.  The top, which simply rests on the base is removable and much easier to move any distance (as in 175 miles).  I'm glad I did it that way.

For more on workbenches and their construction, I suggest you get a copy of Christopher Schwarz's book, Workbenches. If you order from him, he will autograph it.  If you ask, his daughter will autograph it too.  I believe you asked about reading material a while ago.  This book, along with The Workbench Book, by Scott Landis, should have been on that list or recommendations.  

He also has an excellent blog, http://www.woodworking-magazine.com/blog/, which is tied for first as my favorite woodworking related web site.

Hope this helps,

Richard

 

[Dave Ronyak]

I whole heartedly recommend perusal of the photography technical notes and instructions.  I was unable to upload anything before reading those and getting some additional hand holding instructions from several of the helpful members of FOG, and especially the inputs of Matthew S. and Brice B.

I chose to download freeware InfraView and use it to edit and resize (downsize) the photos loading them into FOG.  Loading them first into FOG's Gallery makes them readily accessible for future use by you in posting various messages explaining your project(s) and methods of work.

Dave R.

 

[Dan Clermont]

My bench was built with Mortise and tenon joinery on the base. I cut the tenons using a handsaw but they could have been done with a bandsaw or jigsaw.

The mortises were done with a drill and forstner bit followed by a chisel. They could have been done with a jigsaw for the majority or waste and then followed up with a rasp or chisel on the rest.

My bench has been rock solid for about 7 years and shows no sign of wear.

Dan Clermont

 

[bonesbr549]

You don't need to download software although I have infranview which is free.  This website easily converts your large pictures at no charge

I choose 700 dpi and best quality and still get a good pic for viewing on the screen.  You can try different settings and see the diff.  Give it a try

http://www.shrinkpictures.com/