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and bent L-shaped, and have holes for screws drilled in them, two on each leg of the angle. These braces should be fastened first to the inside of the end rails and front rail, two on each end and two to the front. In placing the braces, drop them about 1/8-inch below the top edge of the rails. Now turn the bench upside down on the 2-inch top, even up in front and at the ends, and drive the screws home into the top. The back part of top or tray can now be attached, using 2-inch screws, driving them down into the end rails.
The bench is now complete with the exception of a tool-rack and vise.
The tool-rack can be made of a piece of 1 x 2-inch or l1/8 x 2-inch planed pine. After cutting holes in this piece to hold all the tools needed most often, this piece should be screwed fast to the back rail, even with the top.
A good vise is very essential if the worker is to be happy and successful in his efforts. If it can be afforded, a good, rapid-acting iron vise is the most satisfactory tool. There are many of these on the market, some as low as three or four dollars. The boy worker is advised to inquire of the hardware stores in his neighborhood or ask advice from his carpenter-friend before any purchases are made.
A very satisfactory vise can be made by a clever or handy boy, using an iron screw and nut, such as can be purchased in many hardware stores. The other parts of this kind of vise are made of wood. A piece of hard wood—maple or oak—2 x 8 inches and 28 inches long, will about complete it.
All new woodwork, such as the work-bench and tool-cabinet, should be protected against dirt and dust. This can be satisfactorily done by first applying a liberal coat of linseed oil. After this is thoroughly dry a coat of shellac or varnish will make a lasting and pleasing finish. A good coat of battleship-gray paint will be a substitute for the treatment mentioned above and will also render the bench moisture-proof and dirt-proof. Do not apply any finish to the working top of the work-bench, as bare, smooth wood makes the most desirable working surface.
In addition to the work-bench, with its rack to accommo- |
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