The ugly duckling is finished (nearly)

[t8hants]

I have just levered my new bench into place, it is not a thing of beauty and was never meant to be. 6 foot in length it is made from reclaimed timber, the legs are made from 3" x 5", which had been a 5 meter fake beam in a hotel bar, so two of the edges are pseudo wany edged, which adds interest. there are two 4"x3" stringers between the two pairs of legs. The main top is a 10" x 3" lump from some now gone building with the far edge full of broken off cut-nails. The well is 12"x 1" which was the part of my grandmothers wardrobe, and has been in store for 30 years ( I inherited it from my Father). The back rail is new, and I have yet to fit my Woden vice. I can just about lift it, but as the top is screwed to the legs through 2" angle brackets it will all come apart, if needed. The cupboard above it will have to be moved now, but that was planned. My wife is looking forward to me making all the items she wants for the kitchen as soon as possible.

Gareth

 

[dm65]

Might not be the prettiest, but I still wish I had one

I trust it doesn't move and the top is flat and smooth (nails can be driven in or pulled) - that all that's really required right ?

 

[t8hants]

I am pleased to say it is rock solid, and the all the nails were in just the one edge. I did have the lump in store to dry for eighteen months before I planed it flat.
If it does move I can take a bit more off as needed. I may fit a small front apron when the vice goes on, but my principle form of holding down clamping is by G clamp, so I need to get the clamps on.
I feel I should use it first and tweek it later, but at less then £20 I can afford to change things if needed, but probably won't.

G

 

[Flynnwood]

I have yet to fit my Woden vice. I can just about lift it ..........
Gareth

Hi - I used this method by paulm to fit a heavy vice, it really saves the strain.

vices-fitting-a-record-bench-vice-t25365.html

 

[devonwoody]

Reminds me of my first bench, oak gate posts and that kind of thing, it lasted 37 years before the woodworm made me ditch it.

I hope yours lasts has well and you enjoy many years of happy woodworking with it.