Woodworking Bench: A Woodworker's Versatile Tool

A woodworking bench represents a fundamental tool for both amateur and professional woodworkers. The versatility of the woodworking bench makes woodworking projects easier and safer. Essential elements of a sturdy woodworking bench include a robust work surface, integrated vises, and strategic storage solutions. The work surface offers woodworkers a stable platform for cutting, shaping, and assembling materials, while the integrated vises securely hold wood pieces in place for precise work. Efficient storage solutions, such as drawers and shelves, keep essential tools within easy reach, enhancing workflow and minimizing clutter in the workshop.

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The Woodworker’s Foundation: Why a Good Bench is Your Shop’s Best Friend

Hey there, fellow woodworkers! Ever feel like your projects are fighting you every step of the way? Like you’re wrestling with the wood instead of shaping it? Well, I’m here to tell you that the secret weapon to woodworking bliss might be right under your nose—or rather, under your project. I’m talking about your woodworking bench, of course!

Think of your bench as the cornerstone of your woodworking kingdom. It’s not just a flat surface; it’s the launchpad for all your creative endeavors. A well-chosen and maintained bench can seriously up your woodworking game. We’re talking about better accuracy, smoother workflow, and, let’s be honest, a whole lot more fun. Trying to carve out your niche? A bench is going to be the foundation.

Now, I know what you’re thinking: “A bench is a bench, right?” Wrong! Just like there’s a perfect tool for every job, there’s a perfect bench for every woodworker. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a weekend warrior, there’s a bench out there with your name on it. From hefty European-style behemoths to sleek Scandinavian designs, there is a bench out there just for you.

But what makes a bench a bench, anyway? What are the key ingredients that transform a simple table into a woodworking powerhouse? Well, we’re about to dive deep into the anatomy of a woodworking bench.

Deconstructing the Woodworking Bench: Essential Components Explained

Alright, let’s get down to brass tacks – or should I say, bench tacks? We’re about to dissect the woodworking bench, exploring all its nooks, crannies, and essential parts. Think of it as a woodworking autopsy, but instead of finding out what went wrong, we’re figuring out how to make things right.

Bench Top: The Work Surface

This is where the magic happens! The bench top is your stage, your canvas, the very ground zero of your woodworking adventures. When it comes to choosing a material, you’ve got a couple of main contenders:

Hardwoods (Maple, Beech, Oak): The heavy hitters. These are the materials you go for when you want something that can withstand a beating and stay stable for years to come. They laugh in the face of dents and dings.
Softwoods (Pine, Fir): The budget-friendly options. Perfect if you’re just starting out or need a lighter-weight bench. While they might not be as tough as hardwoods, they’re easier to work with and won’t break the bank.

Now, about that thickness… Think of it like this: the thicker, the better. A thicker bench top means more stability, less vibration, and a more solid feel when you’re working. And don’t even get me started on flatness! A flat bench top is crucial for accurate work. You can achieve this with hand planes, power planers, or even by carefully selecting your lumber. Keeping it flat? That’s a whole other story involving seasonal adjustments and a watchful eye.

Legs: The Foundation of Stability

You wouldn’t build a house on a shaky foundation, would you? Same goes for your woodworking bench! Sturdy legs are non-negotiable. They’re what keep your bench from dancing around the shop while you’re trying to saw a straight line.

Mortise and Tenon: The classic choice. Strong, reliable, and oozing with traditional woodworking charm. It takes a bit of skill, but the result is worth it.
Dovetails: If you want to show off your joinery skills, dovetails are the way to go. Not only are they incredibly strong, but they also look darn good.
Bolted Connections: For those who prefer a quicker, more straightforward approach, bolted connections are a solid option. Easy to assemble and disassemble if needed.

Aprons/Stretchers: Adding Rigidity and Support

These are the unsung heroes of the bench world. Aprons and stretchers tie the legs together, preventing racking and adding a whole lot of stiffness. It’s like the bench’s own personal support system. You’ll typically see it in two variations:

H-Stretchers: A simple and effective design, where the stretchers form an “H” shape between the legs.
Full Perimeter Aprons: Aprons that run around the entire perimeter of the bench, providing maximum stiffness.

As with the other components, material selection plays a big role here. Go for something sturdy that can handle the stress of daily use.

Vises: The Gripping Powerhouse

Vises are the work-holding champions of the woodworking world. They grip, they hold, they don’t let go (until you tell them to). Here’s a rundown of the main types:

Face Vises: Mounted on the front of the bench, perfect for general-purpose work holding.
Leg Vises: A beefier version of the face vise, often found on traditional workbenches.
Tail Vises: Located at the end of the bench, ideal for holding long pieces of wood.
Quick-Release Vises: For those who value speed and convenience, these vises allow for rapid adjustments.

Material-wise, you’re typically looking at metals (Steel, Cast Iron) for vise construction. These materials provide the durability and clamping force needed to keep your workpieces secure.

Dog Holes: Versatile Work Holding

Think of dog holes as the Swiss Army knife of work holding. These precisely placed holes allow you to use bench dogs and other accessories to secure workpieces in countless ways. Optimal placement is key here. You want a pattern that maximizes versatility and allows you to hold a wide range of shapes and sizes.

Bench Dogs/Holdfasts: Securing Your Work

These little guys work in tandem with dog holes to create a super-secure clamping system.

Bench Dogs: Come in various materials (metal, wood, spring-loaded) and designs, but their purpose is always the same: to provide a solid gripping point.
Holdfasts: These ingenious devices use friction to clamp workpieces quickly and securely. A must-have for any serious woodworker.

Tool Trays/Storage: Keeping Essentials Within Reach

Let’s face it, a cluttered workbench is a recipe for disaster. Integrated tool storage helps you keep your tools organized and within easy reach, saving you time and frustration. Drawers, shelves, trays, under-bench cabinets – the possibilities are endless. The key is to customize your storage to fit your specific tool collection and workflow.

Bench Styles: Finding the Right Bench for Your Needs

Okay, so you’re ready to dive into the wonderful world of woodworking benches, huh? It’s like choosing a trusty steed for your woodworking adventures! Each bench style brings something unique to the table (pun absolutely intended). Let’s explore the fascinating variety of benches out there, and find the perfect one to fuel your creative fire!

European Workbench (Roubo, Nicholson): The Traditional Workhorse

Imagine a bench so solid, it feels like it’s been there for centuries. That’s your classic European workbench! Think massive construction, thick tops that could probably withstand a small explosion, and those serious-looking leg vises.

These bad boys, particularly the Roubo and Nicholson designs, are built for serious hand tool work. Stability is the name of the game here. You could probably chop mortises with a sledgehammer on one of these and it wouldn’t even flinch! The sheer size of the work surface is a massive plus, giving you tons of room to spread out your plans, tools, and that half-eaten sandwich from lunchtime. If you’re envisioning yourself as a chisel-wielding artisan, this style might just be calling your name.

Scandinavian Workbench (Sjöbergs): Versatility and Convenience

Now, let’s talk Scandinavian! These benches are like the Swiss Army knives of the woodworking world: versatile and convenient. They’re generally lighter than their European counterparts, making them a bit easier to move around (if you dare).

A key feature is often the integrated vises. Plus, many come with built-in storage. Think drawers and shelves for stashing your tools. Sjöbergs is a prominent brand in this style, known for its quality and thoughtful design. These benches are a solid choice if you dabble in both hand tool and power tool work. They’re not quite as beefy as the European style, but they offer a great balance of functionality and practicality. It’s the perfect blend of beauty and function for many.

English Workbench: A Blend of Styles

Ah, the English workbench: a bit of this, a bit of that, like a good cup of tea that’s been brewed to perfection. You’ll often find designs that borrow elements from both the European and Scandinavian styles, creating a unique blend of functionality.

Expect sturdy construction, like the European style, but with potentially more versatile vise configurations. They often prioritize practicality, meaning they’re designed to get the job done efficiently without being overly fussy. This is your workhorse with the reliability of a vintage car.

DIY Workbench: Customization and Affordability

Here’s where things get really interesting! Building your own workbench is like designing your own superhero suit. You get to customize it to your exact needs, making it the ultimate woodworking companion.

The benefits are huge: you save money, you learn a ton about bench construction, and you end up with a bench that’s perfectly tailored to your workspace and workflow. Inspiration is everywhere! From online plans to woodworking magazines, there’s a wealth of resources available. Don’t be afraid to get creative and put your own spin on things. This is also your chance to really understand the mechanics behind each section of the bench. The possibilities are endless, and the satisfaction of building your own bench is unmatched.

Portable Workbench: Woodworking on the Go

Last but not least, we have the portable workbench! These are the champions of small shops, on-site work, and woodworking demonstrations. They’re compact, lightweight, and designed to be easily transported.

Maybe you only have a tiny corner of your apartment to dedicate to woodworking, or perhaps you’re a traveling craftsman who needs a reliable workspace on the road. Whatever the reason, a portable workbench can be a lifesaver. They often feature folding legs and clever storage solutions to maximize space. Don’t let the size fool you, though. Many portable benches are surprisingly robust and can handle a good amount of work. Get out there and start making!

Material Matters: Choosing the Right Wood and Hardware

So, you’re ready to build a woodworking bench, huh? Awesome! But before you start swinging that hammer (or firing up the router), let’s talk about what you’re going to build it with. Choosing the right materials can be the difference between a bench that lasts a lifetime and one that… well, becomes firewood sooner than you’d like. Think of it like this: you wouldn’t build a race car out of cardboard, right? (Unless you’re going for a very specific kind of race.)

Hardwoods vs. Softwoods: A Balancing Act

This is the big debate! Hardwoods like maple, beech, and oak are the champions of durability. They’re tough, stable, and can take a beating. They’re like the bodybuilders of the wood world. But, they can be pricier and a bit more challenging to work with.

Then there are the softwoods – pine and fir. These are your budget-friendly, easy-to-work-with options. They’re like the friendly neighborhood gym-goers. While they might not be as strong as the hardwoods, they’re perfectly suitable for many bench projects, especially if you’re just starting out.

Which one is right for you? Consider these questions:

Budget: How much are you willing to spend?
Skill Level: Are you comfortable working with harder woods?
Intended Use: Will your bench be subjected to heavy abuse, or more for light hobby work?
Aesthetics: Do you prefer the look of a particular wood?

It’s all about finding the sweet spot between what you need and what you can afford (and handle). Sometimes, a combination approach works best. Maybe a hardwood top for durability and softwood legs and aprons to save on cost.

Metals: Strength and Precision

Wood isn’t the only star of the show here. Metals, specifically steel and cast iron, play a crucial role in the vise and other essential hardware. Think of your vise as the bench’s gripping superpower! You want that thing to be strong and reliable. Cheap, flimsy hardware will only lead to frustration and potential failure down the road.

Quality hardware is an investment. It ensures smooth operation, precise clamping, and longevity. Don’t skimp on this part! A solid vise can last a lifetime and be transferred to future benches. Look for well-machined parts and durable finishes. Remember, you want your bench to be a reliable partner in your woodworking journey, not a source of headaches. So choose your materials wisely, and get ready to build something amazing!

Joinery Techniques: Building a Bench That Lasts

A woodworking bench is more than just a flat surface; it’s a battle-tested fortress, a reliable companion on your creative journey. But a fortress needs strong foundations, and in woodworking, that foundation is joinery. Forget flimsy connections that wobble and creak; we’re talking about joints that stand the test of time (and maybe a few accidental hammer blows). Let’s dive into the essential joinery techniques that will make your bench a rock-solid masterpiece.

Mortise and Tenon: The Classic Connection

The mortise and tenon joint is the bread and butter of woodworking, a time-honored technique for joining legs to aprons and creating a robust framework. Think of it as a perfectly fitted puzzle piece: the tenon (a projecting tongue) fits snugly into the mortise (a hole). This interlocking design creates incredible strength, resisting racking and ensuring your bench stays square.

Variations: There are many ways to skin a cat, and many ways to make a mortise and tenon joint! A through tenon proudly protrudes through the mortise, often wedged for extra holding power. A blind tenon, on the other hand, is hidden, offering a cleaner, more refined look. The choice is yours, young Padawan!

Dovetails: Strength and Beauty

Ah, the dovetail – not just a joint, but a statement. These interlocking, fan-shaped pins and tails are stronger than a Viking’s grip and add a touch of elegance to drawer construction and even leg attachment. A well-cut dovetail is a sign of craftsmanship and attention to detail.

Types: Through dovetails are visible from both sides, showcasing the joint’s intricate pattern. Half-blind dovetails are hidden on one side, offering a cleaner look while still providing superior strength. Choose the style that suits your project and your aesthetic.

Wood Screws: Assembly Essentials

Wood screws are the unsung heroes of woodworking, the reliable workhorses that hold things together during assembly. While not as glamorous as dovetails, they’re essential for securing parts and creating a solid structure. Use them wisely, and they’ll reward you with a sturdy, long-lasting bench.

Applications: Different screws are designed for different jobs! Be sure to select the right length and type of screw for the material you are working with. For example, pocket hole screws are often used for quick assembly.

Bolts: Heavy-Duty Connections

When you need serious clamping force, bolts are your best friend. These heavy-duty fasteners are ideal for attaching legs to a benchtop, providing a rock-solid connection that can withstand years of abuse.

Washers and Locking Mechanisms: Don’t forget the washers! These little discs distribute the load and prevent the bolt head from digging into the wood. And for extra security, use locking washers or nylock nuts to prevent the bolts from loosening over time. A little bit of prevention goes a long way toward keeping your bench sturdy for decades.

Essential Tools for Bench Work: A Woodworker’s Arsenal

Every woodworking bench needs its trusty sidekicks – the tools that help you transform raw lumber into beautiful creations. Forget superhero capes; these are the gadgets that’ll make you feel like a woodworking wizard. Let’s raid the tool chest and see what essential items you need at your beck and call when you’re at your bench.

Hand Planes: Smoothing and Flattening

Think of hand planes as the zen masters of the woodworking world. They glide across the wood, shaving off the imperfections and leaving behind a surface so smooth, you’ll want to caress it (go ahead, we won’t judge!). There are different types of hand planes for different tasks:

Smoothing planes are the ninjas of surface refinement, leaving a flawless finish.
Jack planes are your all-purpose workhorses, good for flattening and general stock removal.
Jointer planes are like the long-distance runners, excelling at creating perfectly flat and straight edges on long boards – essential for joinery.

Saws: Precision Cutting

From rough cuts to delicate joinery, saws are the backbone of any woodworking project. Choosing the right saw for the job is crucial:

Hand saws, especially the dovetail saw, are your go-to for intricate work and fine joinery. The thin blade and controlled cut allow for precise dovetails, tenons, and more.
Back saws are the key to unlocking precise and clean cuts, perfect for joinery. Their rigid backs provide stability.
Table saws are powerhouses for ripping boards to width and making consistent crosscuts.

Chisels: Shaping and Refining

Chisels are like the sculptor’s tools of woodworking. They allow you to carve, shape, and refine details with incredible precision. Mortising? No problem. Cleaning up joinery? A breeze. From paring edges to creating intricate designs, a good set of chisels is indispensable.

Mallets: Striking with Authority

You can’t wield a chisel effectively without a good mallet. These striking tools deliver the necessary force to drive chisels into the wood without damaging their handles.

Wooden mallets are great for general use, providing a solid impact without marring the chisel handle.
Rubber mallets offer a softer touch, ideal for delicate work or when you need to avoid bruising the wood.

Measuring and Marking Tools: Accuracy is Key

Woodworking is all about precision, and accurate measuring and marking are the foundation of every successful project. Skimp on these, and you’ll end up with wobbly tables and drawers that refuse to close. Invest in quality tools like:

Rulers for general measurements.
Squares to ensure your corners are actually square.
Marking gauges for consistent lines parallel to an edge.
Knives for creating fine, precise lines for joinery.

These tools are the unsung heroes that guarantee your cuts are true and your joinery is tight. Remember, in woodworking, a little accuracy goes a long way!

Work Holding Methods: Keeping Your Work Secure

Okay, so you’ve got this beautiful woodworking bench, right? But a bench is only as good as its ability to, well, hold things! Imagine trying to carve a dovetail without anything to keep that wood still. Nightmare fuel! Let’s dive into the wonderful world of work-holding – the unsung heroes of every woodworking project.

Bench Dogs: Versatile Gripping

Think of bench dogs as your loyal sidekicks. Those strategically placed holes (dog holes, naturally) in your bench are there for a reason! Bench dogs, those little pegs (usually metal or wood), fit snugly into these holes, allowing you to secure your workpiece in all sorts of ways. You can use them in pairs to trap wood between them, or combine them with your vises for a super-secure hold.

Different Types: You’ll find metal dogs, wooden dogs, spring-loaded dogs, even fancy pivoting dogs. Metal dogs offer durability, while wooden dogs are less likely to damage your workpiece. Spring-loaded ones stay put, and pivoting ones… well, they pivot!
Applications: Use them for everything from planing a board flat to holding pieces for joinery. The possibilities are endless! Experiment with different dog hole patterns and dog configurations to find what works best for your projects.

Holdfasts: Quick and Secure Clamping

Holdfasts are like magic! Seriously, they look like something a blacksmith conjured up. These curved metal rods fit into your dog holes and, with a single whack from a mallet, clamp down on your workpiece with surprising force. The beauty is their speed and ease of use. Need to adjust something quickly? Whack! Loose. Whack! Tight.

Friction is Your Friend: Holdfasts use friction to hold. The angle of the shaft and the weight of the metal create a strong clamping force.
Advantages: They’re faster than traditional clamps, leave your hands free, and don’t get in the way. They are a must-have if you’re working quickly or doing repetitive tasks.

Wedges: Simple and Effective

Don’t underestimate the power of a good wedge! These tapered pieces of wood are incredibly versatile for securing work. Jam them in your vise alongside your workpiece for extra grip, or use them to create a temporary clamp in a pinch.

Low-Tech, High Impact: Wedges are about as simple as it gets, but their effectiveness is undeniable.
Applications: Use them for fine-tuning clamping pressure, holding oddly shaped pieces, or even splitting wood in a controlled manner.

Cam Clamps: Fast Adjustments

These clamps use a rotating cam mechanism to quickly apply pressure. They’re fantastic for situations where you need to repeatedly clamp and unclamp workpieces, like when assembling multiple parts. They offer a good balance of speed and clamping force.

The Speed Demons of Clamping: If you value speed and ease of adjustment, cam clamps are your friend.
Perfect for Assembly: These clamps shine when assembling projects, allowing you to quickly secure pieces while glue dries or screws are driven.

Ergonomics, Safety, and Best Practices: Working Comfortably and Safely

Alright, let’s talk about keeping you happy and in one piece while you’re building that masterpiece! A woodworking bench isn’t just a slab of wood with legs; it’s your command center. So, setting it up right and following a few best practices will make you more comfortable, safer, and darn more productive. It’s all about working smarter, not harder (and definitely not sore-r).

Ergonomics: Designing for Comfort

Let’s face it, hunching over a bench that’s too low or stretching for tools miles away is a recipe for back pain and frustration. Think of your bench as a custom-tailored suit – it needs to fit you perfectly!

Bench Height is Key: A good starting point is setting the bench height so that your wrists are level when your elbows are bent at 90 degrees. You should be able to comfortably push down on your work without hunching. Different tasks may require slightly different heights, so experiment and adjust to what feels best.
Posture Matters: Your mama was right! Stand tall (or sit tall if you prefer a seated bench) with your shoulders back and your core engaged. Take breaks to stretch and move around to avoid stiffness. Think yoga, but with wood chips.
Tool Placement is Crucial: Keep your most frequently used tools within easy reach. A well-organized bench with integrated tool storage or a nearby tool rack can save you tons of time and effort. No more archaeological digs to find your favorite chisel!

Workholding Strategies: Efficient Techniques

Holding your work securely is essential for accurate and safe woodworking. Fumbling around with a wobbly piece of wood is frustrating and potentially dangerous.

Match the Method to the Task: Different tasks require different workholding approaches. A large, flat panel might benefit from bench dogs and a vise, while a small, oddly shaped piece might be better secured with a holdfast.
Think Ahead: Before you start cutting or shaping, plan your workholding strategy. Consider the order of operations and how you’ll secure the piece at each stage.
Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment: Try different combinations of vises, clamps, and bench accessories to find what works best for you and your projects. Every woodworker develops their own personal preferences and tricks.

Woodworking Safety: Protecting Yourself

Woodworking can be incredibly rewarding, but it’s also inherently dangerous. Power tools and sharp hand tools demand respect and a healthy dose of caution.

Eye Protection is Non-Negotiable: Always wear safety glasses or a face shield to protect your eyes from flying debris. Wood chips, sawdust, and other particles can cause serious eye injuries.
Hearing Protection is a Must: The loud noise of power tools can damage your hearing over time. Wear earplugs or earmuffs to protect your ears. Your future self will thank you.
Dust Masks are Your Friends: Sawdust can irritate your lungs and cause respiratory problems. Wear a dust mask or respirator to filter out airborne particles.
Sharp Tools are Safer Tools: Counterintuitively, sharp tools are safer because they require less force to use, reducing the risk of slipping and losing control. Keep your tools honed and properly maintained.
Respect Power Tools: Read the manual thoroughly before using any power tool, and always follow the manufacturer’s safety instructions. Never remove safety guards or bypass safety features.
Stay Focused: Woodworking requires concentration. Avoid distractions and never work when you’re tired, under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or otherwise impaired.
First Aid Ready: Make sure you have a well-stocked first-aid kit in your shop and know how to use it. Accidents happen, so be prepared.

Maintenance and Care: Keeping Your Bench in Top Condition

Alright, you’ve got this beautiful beast of a bench – now how do you keep it from turning into a beast of burden? Just like a trusty steed, your woodworking bench needs a little TLC to stay in prime condition. Neglecting it is like letting your chisels rust – a woodworker’s cardinal sin! Let’s dive into keeping your workbench the envy of every plank in your shop.

Bench Maintenance: Flattening, Lubricating, and Protecting

Think of this as your bench’s spa day, but instead of cucumber slices, we’re talking planes, wax, and a whole lotta elbow grease.

Flattening: Taming the Wild Top

Over time, even the most stalwart benchtop can develop a bit of a wave, especially if it’s solid wood. Changes in humidity, the relentless pounding of mallets, and the occasional… ahem… unplanned chisel drop can all contribute. A warped or uneven surface throws everything off, like trying to build a house on a trampoline.

So, how do you wrestle it back into submission? The answer: flattening. This usually involves using a hand plane – a jointer plane, ideally – to systematically remove high spots and bring the entire surface back into alignment. Think of it like shaving, but for wood. There are many videos on Youtube or woodworkers blogs that you can follow, or in worst cases you can get a professional to flatten your benchtop.

Now, this isn’t a weekly chore. How often you need to flatten depends on your climate, the type of wood, and how hard you work your bench. A good rule of thumb is to check it every few months with a straightedge. If you see significant gaps, it’s time to break out the plane.

Lubricating: Keeping Things Moving Smoothly

Vises are the unsung heroes of the workbench, gripping your workpieces with the strength of a thousand squirrels. But just like any mechanical device, they need a little love to keep working smoothly. That means lubrication.

A dry, creaky vise is like nails on a chalkboard. It’s harder to tighten, less precise, and generally annoying. A little lubrication makes a world of difference. Use a good quality dry lubricant, like graphite powder or a Teflon-based spray. Avoid oil-based lubricants, as they can attract dust and grime, turning your vise into a sticky mess.

Apply the lubricant to the screw threads, guide rods, and any other moving parts. Work the vise back and forth a few times to distribute the lubricant evenly. You’ll be amazed at how much smoother and easier it becomes to use.

Protecting: Shielding from the Elements (and Yourself)

Woodworking benches are built to be tough, but they’re not invincible. Spills, dents, scratches, and the relentless assault of time can all take their toll. A little protection can go a long way in preserving your bench’s beauty and functionality.

One simple but effective measure is to apply a protective finish to the benchtop. A few coats of boiled linseed oil, wax, or a durable varnish can help seal the wood, preventing moisture from seeping in and causing warping or cracking. Reapply the finish every few months, or whenever it starts to look worn.

Also, consider using a bench mat or sacrificial board to protect the surface from dings and scratches, especially when working with rough stock or using metal tools. Think of it as a coaster for your woodworking projects.

Finally, clean up spills and sawdust promptly. Wood glue, paint, and other adhesives can be a real pain to remove once they’ve dried. A quick wipe with a damp cloth can save you a lot of headaches down the road.

By following these simple maintenance tips, you can keep your woodworking bench in top condition for years to come. A well-maintained bench is not only a joy to work on, but also a testament to your craftsmanship and dedication to the craft. Now, go give your bench some love – it deserves it!

So, whether you’re restoring a family heirloom or diving into a brand-new project, a solid workbench is your trusty sidekick. Get one that fits your style and needs, and get ready to make some sawdust! Happy building!