The Most Impressive Workbench I Have Ever Seen

[@jarekslusarczyk9742]

I am a beginner to woodwork, the main test I have with this bundle kzbin.infoUgkxTNB_zFBSnTo_O1PqfVUwgi7ityw0JlKt is that I think that its hard to settle on a choice of the plan and outline to use as there are a large portion of them there. Nonetheless, I like the simple stride to step directions laid out there.

[@danielabbey7726]

What Kenny created is beyond woodworking - this is a work of art! Eagerly looking forward to this series.

[@martinparmer]

A masterpiece, for sure

[@1bcordell]

It's a thing of beauty. I hope when he doesn't need it anymore that someone with the same passion will give it the good home it deserves.

[@leopoldwhylie5076]

I cannot tell you how much I appreciate the opportunity to sit at the feet of our elders, and just learn. To listen and learn from men and women who have done this and a high-level, it’s extremely valuable and sorely lacking in today’s society. Thank you for preserving the knowledge and heritage of these men.

[@ChrisToups]

yes indeed. I'm younger than these gentlemen, but that's how I know I'm about to get some serious knowledge dropped on me.

[@Shmyrk]

Big facts. And, while it’d be amazing to have an in-person mentor, this is also a huge privilege.

[@merlinsatrom6678]

“….becomes a permanent part of the record we leave”. “…the fabric of our journey”. Scott, it’s this kind of wisdom from you that inspires me to love remaining creative and active during these retirement years. This channel is a true gift for those of us seeking to make a difference with what God has provided for us! Thank you!

[@Bickey63]

Also loved " and I see we have a very pragmatic concession to reality.." 8:30

[@-o-The-Duke-o-]

I unfortunately lost my shop due to a wildfire in 2020. There are so many tools that I lost that broke my heart but none so much as my workbench. It was the first time I ever used true joinery. It was a measurement of my abilities at that time of my life. I poured everything I had into that bench and though I never really showed it off to anyone but my wife, I was reminded daily of what I was capable of, every time I stood at it. So many of my tools were true antiques, brought back to life through many hours of loving on them but that bench is what I am still so heartbroken over. Pour everything you have into this bench and it will always bring you a smile. Thank you Scott for all of your hard work and for sharing it with us all. May this bench showcase your love even if only for your own enjoyment. You deserve it.

[@Shmyrk]

Damn man I’m sorry to hear that. Really, truly hope you have made, will make, or are making a new one. That’s how you heal up that loss.

[@darrenjensen5775]

Ken is effectively the Michelangelo of woodworking.

[@xoxo2008oxox]

IF they make his home a museum, that bench needs to be preserved! I LOVE those stairs!

[@praetorxian]

Those stairs are amazing.

[@paulkramer4176]

Looks like influenced by Green and Green house in Pasadena.

[@codygooch510]

Ken is pretty lucky to have you. You keep his life interesting. I’m sure you’re lucky to have him as well. Good friends are hard to come by.

[@nickrandol9133]

I’m a GC in Wyoming, and built a very heavy, classic and historically consistent Roubo bench for my shop, about 6 or 7 years ago. It was the most satisfying project I think I’ve ever done. It is now the centerpiece of the shop, and I use it and adore it. You won’t regret this journey.

[@Mikey__R]

I built a Holzapffel style bench, 13 years ago when I came back to the craft. It's like a Roubo, but with a twin screw. I learnt a lot building it, but I learnt better lessons in the years since whilst using it. I think I'll eventually build a better bench, still in the French style, but with better work holding. I can definitely see the appeal now of a traditional leg vice.

[@koogle612]

Ive seen a set of plans for a roubo late 1800s design specifically for boat building. Still have the plans which I drool over.

[@myoptik3x103]

The work ethic exhibited by you gentleman is inspirational. Thank you for sharing.

[@gravey07]

I couldn’t agree more.

[@ericbreckenkamp976]

One thing a lot of people don’t consider about building a work bench, is you need some type of workbench to build it on.

[@goptools]

Hi Scott, you should encourage Kenny to be up front, on camera, in your videos more often. He is there in the background in quite a few but I'll bet he has many pearls of wisdom. Just a thought. Wouldn't want to put him on the spot if that's really not his thing. Since he never says anything, I thought he couldn't speak very well after his stroke. He did great in this one and I think folks would like to hear what he has to say. Thanks for the video!

[@24.k.g.f.97]

Iv found my passion in woodworking, especially joinery. Seeing Kenny's house inspired me to practice every day all I can to build and eventually do my darnest to make a beautiful place for my family.

[@24.k.g.f.97]

Most impressive house iv ever seen. Been waiting for more of his work for a long time. Thank you gentlemen, goodmorning and goodnight!

[@mumblbeebee6546]

You are a teacher - Kenny is an inspiration! Not just his impeccable craft, but his refusal to down tools - or lose his humour - after his stroke. I am very much looking forward to watching more of you two!

[@allenjcarter]

Scott, your comments at the end about what we create in life were absolutely beautiful. So much of who you are (to us viewers, or at least to me) is encapsulated in those words. Bravo!

[@NickAndTech]

Those last few sentences really hit home, though I'm just 40 I'm increasingly aware of time flowing through the hourglass. Thanks for the inspiration!

[@jamesedwards1528]

Your words at the end definitely sink in at 43 years old working for myself

[@dannybuchik6778]

Your barn shop you created is absolutely amazing. What I think is the best part is that you did some of it with your father. My father helped me build my garage/ shop back in 2013 and it’s been building me great memories ever since. I luv your channel EC keep it going. I’m building a workbench featured in Canadian Home Workshop by Gary Walchuk. You’re a great man EC 😊

[@SpetznazSamson]

Watching these videos my heart fills with hate. I hate how fast time is passing by and we are getting old so fast. As soon as you get wiser and found out what you like there is so little time left to enjoy your craft and life... Anyway, what a treasure these videos. Keep'em coming, please...

[@duanelundgren7985]

What a magnificent Tribute to Kenny, what he has done, what he has become and what his heritage IS! THANK YOU!! And Thank You, Ken!!!

[@tomalealso]

I am a Pastor for most of my life I had two jobs, as I raised my kids, I built houses in the day time and I pastored in the evenings and on the weekends. I no longer have to work construction anymore but I still love it. I set up a little shop for me to play in. recently we moved from a little town in Eastern Oregon to Myrtle Point, Oregon they are building us a new house to live in and I realize how much has changed in the last 20 years of construction. I marvel at the new products and the new tools that have changed the way we do things. I realize that I need to let the younger guys do the work so they receive the benifits I gained along the way. As you have said, it becomes a part of who we are.

[@PaulAnderson-xv2xd]

Definitely, A thing of beauty and a joy forever thanks for sharing Scott. Paul

[@bennywilks9367]

I'm sure you get every type of comment on here, and I'll just leave mine, which has no back door agenda or purpose. When I see a situation such as yours, where you admire your friend's bench and house, then I see the things you have done there with your place, it makes me realize that we are all somewhat unaware of the things we have or the situation we're in. That's in no way a derogatory statement towards you whatsoever, nor any of 'us', but more of a general thought on how easily we lose perspective sometimes. Great job with your place, and excellent work of including some pictures of your Dad... not that I know him, but he appeared to be a well-grounded, proud man, and you represent yourself well and also represent the type of job your Dad did in raising you.

[@steeleh9845]

At 30 years old, I have just begun my journey into woodworking. Watching these videos is profoundly bittersweet to me. On one hand, there is no one in my life that has any experience in this world and I despair at the thought of how much I have missed. The other hand holds the joy of having access to these fatherly lessons and the anticipation of passing knowledge down to my children. Many sincere thanks from South Alabama.

[@jameswendellmiller]

That was beautiful, thanks for sharing. Very inspirational as a 34 year old beginning woodworker

[@enosbyler664]

Thanks!I appreciate your closing remarks!

[@clarencehaws3811]

I just have to tell you I appreciate the knowledge that you have the opportunity that you can share this with others. I sure do like your videos.

[@rogerheraghty5670]

A pair of extraordinary gentleman… and a good bench! Cheers!

[@girliedog]

Building that work bench will be a wonderful project.

[@Antiquity_Zine]

You are everything I inspire to be. Continually learning and sharing your knowledge along the way. Your humbleness and understanding of what truly matters in life is outstanding. I’ll get there $50 at a time. You are Essential.

[@slapmyslap]

Glad you touched on wood selection and cut. Especially when you mentioned fleck and whatnot.

[@dustincleckler9806]

As a Agricultural Shop Teacher I am very excited to see this table build. Also I would not incorporate a power strip, just have a 2 gang metal outlet box hanging from the ceiling above the table.

[@omnivore8225]

Scott, I can only imagine what it might feel like to be able to produce something this useful and to then find yourself having to step back and allow a friend describe it's benefits and what it has helped to produce. This isn't just an example of how to make something useful and worthwhile, this is also a wonderful example of how to behave as a human being and a friend. You are clearly grateful for the opportunity to have met and learn from Ken, and his skills and methods should be celebrated and remembered. You Sir, are a remarkable person and a true friend. Thank you for your example.

[@itsjustmetomc4848]

That is a labor of love and a beautiful bench! Thanks for sharing and for the inspiration!

[@pedalman4595]

YOU INSPIRE ME BEYOND WORDS!!!!!!!!!!!! THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@jeffreykindron7162]

Ken's bench is the epitome of the combination of art and craftsmanship. Looking forward to watching Scott's build.

[@drbendaroo9610]

Love and appreciate your final comments. God bless!

[@iamdamo]

That is art. Ken is a master craftsman. cant wait to see this bench creation come to life.

[@jefffuhr2393]

You are a good, wise, and generous man. We are richly blessed that you have shared with us--all that God and those who preceded you, have poured into you and more. Thank you, Brother.

[@w.w.8823]

Ken's workbench is better quality than any piece of furniture in my home. Beautiful work. I am in awe of someone who could produce workmanship like this.

[@davenag957]

The patina on Kenny's bench top tells the story of his home, his craftsmanship, and of his life. My dad had an old time Chicago meat market. He cut on the same 2 maple butcher blocks for over 35 years. Never used a band saw because it shredded the meat. He knife cut and hand sawed every steak and chop. Those blocks were probably 40 years old when he bought the business and by the time he sold they were at least 3" lower in the center work areas from all the knife cuts and block brushing. Those old patinated butcher blocks were his "workbenches", told a similar life story, and I wish we still had them. When we see work surfaces that are old and worn, we need to appreciate all the time, energy and expertise that went in to creating that patina. Good luck Scott on your workbench legacy.

[@NYskyHI]

I stumbled across Essential Craftsman last night and binge-watched at least a half dozen videos. I'm awe struck at how much value I get from watching! What a breath of fresh air! My fiancé and I are in contract to purchase our first home in Southern AZ. It's a fixer-upper. I intend on binge watching many more videos here, and taking many notes. We have ton's of projects ahead of us!

[@XPStartupSound]

That final remark was beautiful

[@jimlight6952]

Enjoy the build. My grandson and I each built our own thick top workbenches a few years ago. Built mine in a little over 4 months, grandson was a young teenager when we started, so took him about 3 years. Much of ours is similar to Ken's. Dovetailed edge pieces tie end plank that is mortise and tenoned to all inner pieces and wood pined. All joints are mortise and tenoned with wooden draw pins to hold it all together. I made a wagon vise on mine which I use constantly to hold a board that I am hand planning or sanding, I think if you add the second vise to the overhung end near the edge, (which one depends on if you are right or left handed), with stop holes lined up down the length of the bench and in line with the center of the vise with pop up catch you will be surprised how much you will use it. Tried to enclose a picture but couldn't figure out how. 74 year old and still learning, Jim

[@AB-C1]

Fantastic video and what a stunning workbench, real craftsmanship! 👍🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🇬🇧

[@CreatorofWhat]

Looking forward to the bench build.

[@billprince389]

You’re an inspiration. Thank you for what you do.

[@ChristiannTyler]

Very excited to see this build!

[@RRINTHESHOP]

Kenney has a wonderful bench. I would suggest dog holes and an end vise. Over 40 years of furniture and cabinet making I use the dogs and end vise setup on almost every project. Great project.

[@tonyg9511]

Absolutely agree! End vise and dog holes are a must, as is the sliding deadman. Another thing I highly recommend is a set of retractable casters, it is so handy to be able to move your bench around as needed.

[@VictorLaszlo46]

I don't know anything about tools or woodwork, but I know when I've seen beauty, that is beauty.

[@vanish85]

Scott, It'll be amazing and inspiring to see you pour yourself into this project and to challenge yourself into a new level of excellence I'm sure Kenny will approve the result!

[@mikehogan1827]

Well said. My wife and I moved across Canada, a year ago. Now living in an apartment. Brought my woodworking tools with me. Took a lot of time, but with another fellow, I found an old coach house to rent. We’ve been renovating it all summer, and just moved the tools into it a few weeks ago. I am SO GRATEFUL to have a shop again. So important to be able to put my hands to whatever is next. For as long as I can.

[@rawrmusic55]

Excited to see how your table turns out! Your friend’s skill is truly amazing and your friendship is fantastic. Thanks for sharing!

[@samuelwright7499]

Ken seems like an awesome fellow

[@_Ethann_]

Timing couldn’t be more perfect am starting the joinery on a 4 inch thick top white oak spilt Roubo today!

[@ChrisFiggatt]

What a beautiful workbench

[@1978lburick]

Re. An outlet for the bench. You've got the right idea, overhead is the way to go. I stretched a steel cable with a bunch of key rings on it, overhead, end to end in my shop, then louped a 14ga. cord tywraped to the rings, attached a stick (with the cord end attached) long enough to comfortably reach, to the last ring. BEST SHOP IMPROVEMENT EVER! The outlet is always handy, never in the way and no tripping on cords! It works like the power cord on your shop crane. Love your channel, Gadget

[@jimc3891]

I started watching your videos years ago when you started to post them. I watched a few videos and could not decide whether I liked what you were up to and worth the time. I realized my hesitation was because of the similarities in our histories. We are about the same age, I have been a contractor since 1980, and prior to that worked in the construction/landscape field since 1968. Almost everything you talked about I already knew or was familiar with. I have been an on and off viewer over the years and I actually learned a thing or two. Having done tons of moving heavy objects, prying stone, etc, the Burke Bar was a revelation. I have all kinds of bars, but the Burke turned out to be extremely versatile. One of my employees won’t leave the shop without it. Been using a skil worm drive circular saw since the late 70’s when introduced to it by a carpenter from the west coast. Living in New England tools and techniques vary, but are all in all fairly similar. So it is with a smile I watch you try new tools and approaches to getting jobs done. We both have been around a long time, and it is great to see the success you have had on youtube. I often thought about starting a channel, but never had the gumption for it. I guess I will just continue watching you. Stay safe, and don’t work too hard. Over the years I have learned and relearned the lessons of hard work; hard work is good for you, but too much will kill you!

[@joyona7430]

Thank you. Your videos inspire me in countless ways.

[@michaelmolter8828]

Every bit of content you produce is a treasure. A lifetime of experiences put into a format we can use in our lifetimes to get just on step better ourselves. Don’t let an ounce of what you know be lost to the next generation of makers. Thank you.

[@irondiver292]

I simply love Kenny and his work, contribution to raising the bar collectively. Thank you men (tear falls.)

[@bigjoe8922]

Not to many Kenny’s left in the world God bless him

[@jeffwolinski2659]

That bench top is an absolute work of art created by decades of real work.

[@mpsena]

My favorite episode so far!

[@charleywalker2982]

That’s a priceless work of art.

[@dfmackenzie]

That was the most eloquent and poignant description of “you win some.. you lose some..” that I have ever heard 👍👍.

[@Vasilioo7]

Your a very wise man I have loved watched your videos over the years Learnt so much that you just don’t learn anywhere else so I’m very grateful to you and just want to say keep up the great work👍🏿

[@mogbaba]

I watch it, and every detail of it amazes me. I look at Ken sitting relaxed on that chair. You see the level of comfort that comes from his confidence. It is not only a piece of fine woodworking, It is philosophy, it is psychology, it is life, real life. I have moved to a new house, where I have a garage, but in this cold and ever raining weather of west Norway, it is not enjoyable to work in the garage. I have put my old heavy-weight (made by myself) bench and table saw there. I have a beautiful, large enough room that can be dedicated to a second shop, where the cleaner part of the job will be done. I need a new workbench and I look at this bench which amazes me and sit down here with despair. I can build a bench, but I cannot ever make it as beautiful and as functional as this. I continue to watch and accept that we are different. Not all of us can master what some of us can achieve!

[@samfriend8305]

Thumbs up before I even start watching, EC always a worthy 👍

[@darrelduke]

standing on the door! i love it!

[@MayorMcCheese2000]

This video really hit close to home, the end really summed it up. I've been working on my shop for the last few years and put off making my work bench for way too long. Now I've been flying by the seat of my pants this week throwing out all the things I've seen other people do and really trying to create something unique that hopefully someone in 100 years might look at and think is cool. My whole benchtop is made from a section of bowling alley, held up by massive antique cast iron legs. I wanted to save money on vices, so I'm making my own with wooden screws! I love your channel here and your emphasis on the legacy we stand on as craftsmen, but also the legacy that we hand to the next generation. The idea of my individual legacy disappearing amidst the long grey line of American craftsmen sits just fine with me, in 100 years if someone sees my work I hope they have no idea who I am so they don't get wrapped up in a name, let them just get the general vibe to take as inspiration to go have fun themselves, just like I'm having now, thinking about the frugal people I learned from to make a bench out of what I've got, rather than keep pushing the goal posts with bigger and better ideas... the irons hot, time to strike and get building already.... hi ho!

[@steelrain4752]

I can’t tell you how much I enjoy your videos. It is good for me to watch genuine craftsmen at work building beautiful pieces. It stands in stark contrast to the mass produced, mostly garbage items, made today. It is also good for my soul that I can escape the madness and insanity of today to watch such wholesome content. Thank you Essential Craftsman!

[@brandoniron44]

This was a great one man. Stuck a good balance of cool stuff to look at with awesome dialogue. Looking forward to the work bench build. Hopefully Kenny is involved in some more of it. Thanks

[@Rana-ci6ns]

I’ve learned alot from the EC videos. Lots of practical tips and lots of knowledge about construction that I was never exposed to growing up. But I realize now the most important thing I’ve learned here is the importance of friendship and taking care of the ones around you.

[@Uro666]

Hey EC, been following the channel along for years and have enjoyed watching the work and learning a lot of the history from where you live along the way, a suggestion for your woodshop section of the barn if I may: Install either an air line to the gizmo you have your power cables hanging from or install a separate retractable air hose reel above your main work area so that you have in place air that you can easily access and use for air tools & importantly in any workshop the facility to easily blow down and clean your working surfaces and products of sawdust and woodchips. Given the use of sharp tooling, blades & saws in a woodshop (or any workshop in general) having the facility to easily move air lines up and out of your way clear of the work area is a great quality of life (and safety) addition to any workshop. Keep up the good work, I enjoy watching from Scotland.

[@traumahtv]

Loking forward to see your new workbench construction video.

[@craig8739]

Thanks for the Great words of inspiration!!! Love your channel!!

[@RiccardoPelc]

"May not approve of cutting that corner", could be the most finely delivered pun I've ever witnessed. Bravo.

[@ourv9603]

When I was a boy, My dad had a heavy bench made from rough cut timber. The frame was left exposed. He told me the bench was built by his Father, God only knows how old it was. So, as a young man when I got my first garage I wanted a tough as nails bench myself. I used 4x4 for the 6 legs, 8ft long, 30" wide. 2X16 planks for the top. I wrapped mine in plywood to create underbench storage & I added 8 drawers. Since 1982 it has been a fine bench & it too should last as long as grandads. !

[@skigglystars9525]

Enjoyable and inspirational

[@davidholt4495]

One of my favorite videos so far, sure hope you video of the bench build

[@erikbergman4483]

Wow, what a beautiful bench! Master Kenny 👌🏻

[@jeffreymilarsky3246]

Your videos are an inspiration to all!

[@jeffputnam8554]

Its all about the good work at so many levels

[@WalterRiggs]

Great to see Mr Kenny and his show again.

[@jbfire612]

I love the poetic ending of this video. I'm looking forward to the progress on your bench project. Keep up the great work

[@bengee5996]

You are a very wise man. You have inspired many. And personally I couldn't appreciate you more. Thank you sir!

[@z06doc86]

Can’t wait for the work table project!

[@manofinterests334]

Well... I think this is the video I've been looking forward to you making!

[@IUOE_66]

An old workbench can tell a lot of story’s. There’s always something special about them

[@onthefarm7476]

You two gentlemen inspire me

[@rhekman]

Thank you for the break from April 1 shenanigans.

[@scottbrooks4447]

WOW, what a wonderful story. Our clocks are ticking, projects that we love keep us going. Thank You!

[@nickmagma7745]

Waiting impatiently for this series! Remember to always do something for the eye fellas

[@jrhedman8251]

You should certainly share your design plans as you build this workbench, I’m working on my own right now out of old white oak flooring!

[@k.compton8995]

Had a rough weekend. The end of this video makes we want to go out to the shop and work. Feel some sense of accomplishment and tell my loved ones I love them. Thank you

[@charleywalker2982]

Thanks for sharing your videos and keep them coming please.

[@FowlerAskew]

That's my favorite way of building things, absorb a lot of inspiration and then use the techniques and ideas to synthesize something that more accurately suits your preferences and methods of working

[@robthewaywardwoodworker9956]

I can't say it enough, but again, thank you for all you offer us. You are a fountain of sage wisdom, that many of us never got. Your children and grandchildren are very lucky to have you, and they will call your name blessed.

[@AraCarrano]

Going back to rewatch New Yankee workshop