DIY Network

Winding Sticks From "DIY Tools & Techniques" episode DIT-326

Host David Thiel demonstrates how winding sticks can help make sure your workbench is level.

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	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C

Most woodworkers want their workbenches to be completely flat. Winding sticks are two same-size sticks of contrasting colors that are traditional tools for checking the evenness of your bench.

Using Winding Sticks:

1. Lay one stick across one end of the bench. Make sure that your winding sticks are actually flat.

2. Place the second stick across the other end of the bench.

3. Go to one end of the bench, then bend down to look across the sticks. The sticks should be parallel to one another (figure A). If you're having difficulty focusing across the two sticks, poke a hole in a piece of paper and look at the winding sticks through the hole. This allows your eye to focus on both sticks at once.

4. If you see a wind (uneven place) on the bench, mark the high spot.

5. Plane down the high spot to even out your workbench (figure B).

6. A modern twist on this traditional tool; aluminum winding sticks. With aluminum winding sticks, you only have to look at the peaks of the sticks to check the level (figure C).

Note: winding sticks can also be used to check the level of wings and outfeed tables of a table saw.

RESOURCES :

Noden Adjust-a-Bench
Geoffrey Noden Furniture Design
Website: www.adjustabench.com