For the workbench tops we decided to order 2″x 6″ stock and it is working out quite nicely. In preparation for milling the stock, we rough sized the 8′ lengths down to 5′ 6,” which means we were able to get all of the rails out of the off cuts.

After ripping, jointing and planing the boards, the pieces are roughly 1 5/8″ thick by 2 5/8″ tall and for this round of benches we decided on using eight boards for each top.  This will give us finished bench tops that will be right around 14″ wide and 2 3/8″ tall.

As of right now, we have five bench tops glued up with another five ready to go for tomorrow.  The red maple looks absolutely beautiful and it is so satisfying to know that these benches will be serving generations of woodworkers. By the end of next week we will have all of the bench tops glued up and then we move onto the legs.