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Table of Contents

Tips & Techniques4

Classic Workbench6

Sturdy and solid -- nothing on this workbench is fragile. Even the metal vise features heavy wooden jaws, so it has a wide clamping surface and holds a pair of bench dogs.

  • Page 8: Exploded view
    Drawing indicates that piece A - Back Stile is 2 1/2" x 32 1/2" It should be 2" x 32 1/2", which agrees with the materials list and the width of the front stile F. (Note: if wood has already been cut based on the incorrect information, you can re-rip the board down to 2", cutting off the side with the edge groove, and cut another 3/8" groove on the edge.)

Laminated Top14

There are two tricks to building a flat laminated bench top: laying out the boards properly and gluing them up. We've included some tips, techniques, and a simple jig for making this process as easy and accurate as possible.

Readers' Gallery16

Many readers responded to our request for snapshots of the projects they've built from past issues. Here's your chance to see the work of some fellow woodworkers.

Dovetail Chest18

This heirloom chest is just a box with a lid -- and a sliding tray inside. It'll give you a chance to use some traditional woodworking techniques and an old-fashioned finish.

Hand-Cut Dovetails24

If you've never cut dovetails by hand (or if you need a quick "refresher course"), here's our simple step-by-step method.

Three Board Shelf28

Nothing fancy here, just three boards. But don't miss the unique hanging system. About all you need for this project is a board foot of lumber and an evening to build it.

Shop Notes30

Final Details32