Low Workbench Course

Learn to build a basic woodworking workbench - one of the first and most essential tools - out of solid wood  in this full day workshop. Designed to be a hybrid of the Japanese  当て台 (atedai) and Western style bench with bench dog and vise system, it can be used on the floor in a seated position, or clamped to a table, in standing position.

Before starting to work on any woodworking project, it is important to have a sturdy work surface that allows pieces to be held down securely while sawing, chiselling and planing. This facilitates high precision work, in addition to improving ergonomics and enabling the craftsperson to work more effectively over longer periods of time.

Workbenches come in a multitude of styles. Ours is a general purpose hybrid of the Japanese 当て台 atedai (low planing bench) and a Western-style bench. The Japanese atedai is traditionally used off the floor, and its compact size is ideal for small spaces. The Western bench often includes a robust vise and bench dog system. The combination style was chosen with the advantages of both in mind. It is versatile and can be used while sitting on the floor or standing up, depending on the user’s preferences. Having built their first bench, students will be ready to work on their own projects at home and also be better equipped to design new workbench styles as their needs evolve over time.

This course is only open to students that have taken the Shokunin Beginner course.

The 1 day course will begin with an introduction to the features of the low workbench, material choice and method of construction.  Students will then proceed to build their workbench under close supervision. Students will have the opportunity to practise using their kanna during the course.

Approximate Dimensions: L90cm x W30cm x H15cm

(The type of timber and vise brand used may vary based on availability. Dimensions will remain the same.)

Workshop Details

Workshop Dates: The Course is run on request, please feel free to reach out to us via Whatsapp or the Registration form below.

Prerequisite: Students must have taken the Shokunin Beginner course.

Class Duration: 1 day, 9am - 5pm

Suitable for: Age 18 and above

No. of participants: Maximum class size of 4

Course Fees: $820 per participant. Course fees are non-refundable. The course fees include all timber materials and an iron woodworker’s vise. This course is not Skillsfuture enabled.

Tools and Materials: Students will be required to bring their kanna and sashigane/square from the Shokunin Beginner course. All other tools and timber are provided.

*If students would like a refresher in sharpening, please feel free to bring along your sharpening stone.

Registration

You will be directed to a registration page to fill in some basic details. We will then be contacting you with payment instructions within 3 days of receiving your registration. Your registration is only confirmed with payment. Accepted forms of payment are bank transfer, PayNow, Paylah!, and PayPal.