The Workbench Book

by Scott Landis with foreword by Chris Schwarz

It’s hard to overestimate the influence of The Workbench Book by Scott Landis. This definitive book on what many consider the woodworker’s most essential tool was first published in the late 1980s and was shockingly allowed to go out of print. Fortunately anyone who missed the original can benefit from Lost Art Press’s republication of this vital book.

What works in a particular bench — and why? Landis understands workbenches and knows how to elicit insights from the woodworkers whom he observed at work. The book offers you the chance to be inspired by Shaker benches, Frank Klausz’s workbench and regular old commercial benches like Workmates. Some benches are a robust expression of individual personality and some simply fit the workspace. If you are planning to build your own bench, The Workbench Book is a great practical resource, brimming with ideas about the features you are (or should be) considering. And if you’re just generally interested in the historical and social context of woodworking, you’ll see benches from different countries and eras all beautifully presented.

The book includes more than 275 photos of beautifully crafted workbenches as well as complete plans for four benches. The Lost Arts Press edition includes the 1987 text by Scott Landis and a foreword by Chris Schwarz. Printed on FSC-certified recycled paper with a durable sewn binding designed to last generations.

Pages: 248
Binding: Hard Cover
Publisher: Lost Art Press