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17th August 2002, 08:47 PM #1
Member
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What timber is suitable for a workbench?
Greetings
What’s the best timber to use for a workbench, that won't break the bank? I thought of using Tas Oak or?? I've seen plans built on the web in Maple or Beach but I have to take a Mortgage out to finance it!!
The plans I like are from Timbecon I think its a Euro style with two vices + tool recess.
Has anyone built this bench? What are the plans like, are they idiot proof? Are there better plans available?
Thanks in advance
Brad
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17th August 2002 08:47 PM # ADSGoogle Adsense Advertisement
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18th August 2002, 02:50 AM #2
Senior Member
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Hi Brad,
I think that with Tassie Oak you are going to seriously dent your bank account, perhaps you may want to look if they demolish a house near your place and you can probably buy some 2x6 or 2x8 floor joists that should do the job nicely after you remove the nails.
I saw guys selling salvaged joists for $4/m denailed.
If you decide to buy new hardwood/joists make sure you get sesoned timber.
Let us know how you go.
Jack
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18th August 2002, 09:17 AM #3
Drop Bear Master
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Australian Woodsmith had a plan for a bench that was a Tas Oak frame (read KD, would be as good and if not graded cheaper) and the top was three layers of 18mm MDF.
Big, solid, heavy and cheaper than buying one ready made.
Bear in mind that Maple and whatever are materials of choibe in USA and Europe and are a lot cheaper than what they are here.
You could also use Pine for legs, not as pretty but structurally sound and a lot cheaper again.
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: http://community.webshots.com/user/iain49Stupidity kills. Absolute stupidity kills absolutely.
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26th August 2002, 02:00 AM #4
SENIOR MEMBER
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I have a 50mm karri top on my workbench, made from salvaged timber. Karri doesn't finish as well as Tas oak or Jarrah or other Oz hardwoods, but it is stable and, relatively, cheap.
It only takes one drink to get me loaded. Trouble is, I can't remember if it's the thirteenth or fourteenth.
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26th August 2002, 12:23 PM #5
Be inspired. Be creative. Be bold.
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I agree with the Karri. I built my bench about 7 years ago from old railway sleepers and assorted salvage. No signs of warping.
One downside to Karri is in the cutting. It is an oily wood and the pitch quickly builds up on blades. Keep them clean and you won't have a problem.
My top is a laminate of 50 mm Karri on a double thick 19 mm MDF base.
Derek (in Perth)Visit www.inthewoodshop.com for tutorials on constructing handtools, handtool reviews, and my trials and tribulations with furniture builds.
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