Thanks: 0
Needs Pictures: 0
Picture(s) thanks: 0
Results 1 to 15 of 16
Thread: Workbench Book (the definitive)
-
3rd July 2008, 10:33 AM #1
Workbench Book (the definitive)
OK, I'm no expert on workbench books, but I just read (could hardly put down) one that could take the title of definitive workbench book; until the next one...
Workbenches, from Design & Theory to Construction & Use by Christopher Schwarz 2007
With years of experience using different bench designs, and much historical research into workbench designs of a bygone era, the author has elegantly and emphatically presented two bench designs that are as close to perfection for hand and powertool use as you are ever likely to get. The designs have not been in general use for more than 100 years. Christopher explains the functional failures to avoid, the customisation that best suits the type of work you do and two full chapters on the construction of these two benches. He explains the key features and best applications for different vices and appliances (holddowns etc)
The book is packed with illustrations to help get his ideas across, but it is not a visual feast in the way Jim Tolpin's Toolbox book is. Christopher I believe, is first and foremost a pragmatist, his reasoning is clear and leaves little room to doubt his thesis. It's written in a style that gives you a glimpse into his philosophy on life and woodworking that I think would resonate with most fellow woodies. There are a couple Amerenglish quirks in the grammar - like the one in this sentence that are a bit annoying, but hell, it takes nothing away from the book.
You guessed it, I love this book, the contents and the style it's written in. I consider it a must for any woodworker thinking of building(or buying - especially buying!) a workbench and a jolly good investment for the rest too.
Can't speak too highly of it.
Cheers
Michael
-
3rd July 2008 10:33 AM # ADSGoogle Adsense Advertisement
- Join Date
- Always
- Location
- Advertising world
- Posts
- Many
-
3rd July 2008, 10:16 PM #2GOLD MEMBER
- Join Date
- Oct 2003
- Location
- Sydney,Australia
- Posts
- 3,157
Remember - there are 2 versions of this book - one includes a DVD with extra material including plans and an extra style of bench. Lee Valley sell the DVD version IIRC.
-
4th July 2008, 05:27 PM #3
-
4th July 2008, 05:29 PM #4
I have one by Scott Landis that I like but it does not sound as comprehensive as Schwarz's.
The other one is Lon Schleining's The Workbench
-
25th July 2008, 09:48 PM #5
Hi Michael.
I also bought the book on your recommendation and I am very pleased with it. It is very well written and introduces some good sound concepts.
regards
MariosYou can never have enough planes, that is why Mr Stanley invented the 1/2s
-
25th July 2008, 10:19 PM #6
Glad you liked it Marios! Are you building a bench soon??
Cheers
Michael
-
26th July 2008, 01:55 PM #7
Hi Michael,
Yes, good write up, thanks.
I have the two that Groggy listed and liked the Landis one, lots of interesting history. Am sure it has been reviewed here by many.
I just might have to follow Routermaniac's lead and get the Schwarz book too.
Seeing that you read it first, might we convince you to build a bench first? Will be watching for the Work In Progress post.
Cheers
Pops
-
26th July 2008, 05:17 PM #8
I'll let you know what it's like Pops, I had a rush of blood and looked at the Lee Valley site - stupid of me . Oh well, couple of other little bits I wanted plus I am rebuilding my old clunker bench into a planing bench.
I figured that all I had to do was replace the rails and crossbeams, legs and the top plus update the vices.
-
26th July 2008, 07:04 PM #9
-
26th July 2008, 08:23 PM #10
-
26th July 2008, 09:49 PM #11
Hey Groggy,
Thanks for that, interested to hear what you think, compared to the other two books. Arrhh !!! the Lee Valley site, yes the attraction is strong and the will is weak I found, fortunately the plastic is limited.
On your bench 'tart-up' (can I say that without offending anyone, hope so), I am sure that your careful selection of only the necessary updates will be much quicker than building a new one. Your bench sounds like mine, its got more moves that an Elvis dash doll on a bush bash. Best part on it is the door architrave I whacked onto it to stop the planing wobbles, to limited success. Apart from that, the rest is destined for another life, read scrap heap, well maybe not the Origon plank top.
Michael and Marios,
No pressure to build a bench chaps, I have only been putting off building mine for about 10 years. Have purchased the timber though, that is some progress.
Thanks for the book reviews, it keeps reminding me of my mission.
Cheers
Pops
-
5th August 2008, 07:11 PM #12
Which is better?
Ok, subjective assessment follows....
The Schwartz book is the more useful reference in my opinion. I agree with everything Mic-d said and, for anyone looking to build a bench, you should get this book first. It is definitely a better technical reference than the others.
It also comes with a CD containing the full text and drawings (if you order the "deluxe" version).
-
5th August 2008, 09:52 PM #13
Hi Groggy,
Well I guess I have no choice now. You, Mic-d and Routermaniac have all given the thumbs up.
Looks like a visit to the Lee Valley site for me.
Thanks all.
Cheers
Pops
-
5th August 2008, 09:58 PM #14
-
5th August 2008, 10:07 PM #15
I reckon I'll have to get one or more of these books myself before I start my next workbench. Love the reviews, always a bonus when recommended by a fellow forumite.
cheers
WendyBox Challenge 2011 - Check out the amazing Boxes!
Twist One - Wooden Hinge/Latch/Catch/Handle
Twist Two - Found Object
Twist Three - Anything Goes
Similar Threads
-
WIP Book box
By DIY DAN in forum BOX MAKINGReplies: 2Last Post: 7th September 2007, 10:13 AM -
The Workbench Book
By Bodgy in forum THE WORK BENCHReplies: 5Last Post: 20th June 2006, 01:04 PM -
Catch-22 - building a workbench without a workbench
By brianhay in forum THE WORK BENCHReplies: 11Last Post: 18th January 2005, 04:56 PM -
Book Review - Pocket Hole Drilling Jig Project Book
By Dean in forum WOODWORK - GENERALReplies: 2Last Post: 18th July 2004, 01:42 AM