Workstations and Tool Storage

Woodworkers are always looking for ways to make their workshops work better for them. Dedicated workstations for tools or essentials like sharpening and assembly make woodworking more efficient. For space-challenged woodworkers, modular systems allow the benefits of a well-equipped shop in a minimum of space. This book shows how to apply the workstation approach to the shop and how to store and protect your valuable tools.

Whats inside:

Roll-away workshop
Clamp storage solutions
Stack and saw lumber rack
Vacuum hold down table
Rolling chopsaw stand
An elegant chisel cabinet
Heirloom tool chest

Introduction

Section 1: Workshop Systems
Fine Tune Your Shop
Roll Away Workshop

Section 2: Storage Solutions
Versatile Shop Storage Solutions
Four Ways to Get Organized
Clamp Storage Solutions

Section 3: Dedicated Workstations
Stack and Saw Lumber on the Same Rack
Tilt-Top Shop Cart
Convertible Clamping Workstation
Low Assembly Bench
Vacuum Hold Down Table
Rolling Chop Saw Stand Saves Space
A Doundraft Sanding Table

Section 4: Workbenches
Power-Tool Workbench
New Fangled Workbench
A Bench Built to Last
Rock Solid Workbench

Section 5: Sawhorses
Build a Better Sawhorse
Sawhorses for the Shop

Section 6: Tool Cabinets and Chests
Making a Case for Dovetails
Making a Machinist-Style Tool Chest
Fine Furniture for Tools
A Chisel Cabinet
Tool Cabinet Design
An Inspired Tool Chest
Heirloom Tool Chest

I have about 100 times more money invested in machines than in hand tools, but its the hand tools I cherish most. Unlike a machine, a well-tuned hand plane or razor sharp chisel allows me to engage with wood in a personal, satisfying way. Its like driving a car vs. taking a walk. One method gets you there faster, but the latter allows you to see every ripple in the landscape.

Because of our fast-paced lives, we are thankful for machines; otherwise we would not do as many projects promised to our family or to our clients. But at some point all woodworking requires the use of some hand tools. Although you may not think of them as such, a ruler, a marking knife and a square are hand tools that are essential for layout as well as for machine setup. Knowing how to choose and use these tools will make you a better woodworker.

There are times when a handplane or chisel comes in handy, even if you work mostly with machines. Nothing pares an oversized tenon as accurately as a fine swipe across its cheek with a shoulder plane. To shape curvy parts like a ball-and-claw foot, you will need files, rasps and rifflers.

To do honest period work, you must cut your dovetails by hand. A fine-tooth saw and chisel will have to be employed and eventually sharpened to continue working. For certain details, like a narrow bead with a fine quirk or groove, you are best off making your own simple tool, a scratch stock.

These and other hand-tool articles are excerpted here from the pages of Fine Woodworking magazine. Once you start using more of these tools, you will see your work reach a higher level of refinement and realize that the extra time spent doing hand work is well worth every minute.

Anatole Burkin, editor
Fine Woodworking