Workbench...First woodworking project

[robtonya]

Great job Ken.

 

[Dave Ronyak]

Hopefully I will be able to contribute more in the future as I gain more experience. I am currently building an 8ft. wide cherry VC Ply built-in computer desk for a friend which is a whole new challenge for me. Cabinet making is teaching me that square is square, it is or it's not. If all goes well I'll post some pic's...just don't expect anything extravagant. It really is just a simple desk. Ok, gotta go. Time to get some ply and start cuttin!

Once Again, Thank You All

Ken

Ken,

Great job on that bench, even if it was your 100th or 1000th project.  Don't call me if you need to move it, though!!

Re the computer desk and making large boxes/cabinets, I recommend you obtain an 18" precision triangle square like those offered by Woodpeckers if you don't already have one.  I have a table saw, traditional maple top work bench, 3 MFTs (old style) and several Festool products including a TS 55, 1400 router and several sanders.  Of recent I have been making furniture and storage items which are essentially large boxes - about 7 ft tall and 14 to 26 inches deep and 26 to 52 inches wide.  I have found my 18" triangle square and Festool's 3000 mm Guide Rail indispensible for this work.  I was amazed how well the boxes went together.  Also, whenever you have to space partitions, whether vertical or horizontal, I recommend creating a pair of spacers (stops) to use as positioning gauges.  This is much more accurate and repeatable than trying to measure, mark and then position your partitions, particularly since most boards and plywood are not truly flat.  Lastly, don't trust the factory cut edges of your veneered plywood to be square.  The good news is that if you get your veneered plywood from a reputable North American manufacturer, it will come somewhat oversized beyond 48" x 96", which enables ripping four pieces 12" x 48" with your TS 55 or TS 75 saw and guide rail.   Not so with the oak and birch veneered plywood sold by HD and Lowe's in my NE Ohio area.

I'll be looking for more inspiration from your computer desk!!

Dave R.

 

[KM]

Thank you for the tips Dave,

I haven't been able to post much lately with my too hectic schedule. I put the cherry desk on hold for a bit, but will be returning to it this week. I'll be sure too post some pictures as I progress.

Ken