Ⓕ Workbench Build / Potting Bench - with Unique Joinery (ep89)

[@NickFerry]

links to everything used and a ton more info in the article here - nickferry.com/2018/07/workbench-build-potting-bench-with-unique-joinery-ep89/

[@stantoups8119]

NICK THIS IS PROOF THAT YOU ARE A GOOD GUY , AND A HAPPY WIFE MAKES FOR A HAPPY LIFE . GOD BLESS YOU AND YOURS IN JESUS NAME AMEN 😇🇺🇸😎😂 .

[@stevenchandler3409]

Nice! Finally something I can build

[@NickFerry]

Steven Chandler let me know how it goes

[@michaelanderson2166]

I drew this bench several months ago, workbench i am referring to. Seems it must be a good design if at least two people thought up the same solution for the puzzle. It looks lovely, by the way. Dowels were a great idea.

[@lisawilliams15]

You never gave two measurements from The Long Point of the 45 to the shoulder you're really casual with this video are you a carpenter you didn't give any links really you just kind of blew through this I don't understand nice table but you didn't explain this very well to casual not enough information

[@fordprefect4003]

I don't normally comment on the stuff I watch here. I had to do the whole log on thing...are you sure you're you...could you be a robot that thinks it's you...would you like another account to be another you...here's an add while you think...and so on. But I did all that, because I thought it worth my time. Guy's like you, who do stuff like this: make it worthwhile coming here. I learnt a lot without expecting to. More importantly, I learnt without thinking someone was trying to teach me. You have the gift of showing how it can be done without pushing for it to be done the 'right' way. Many thanks.

[@NickFerry]

Much appreciated ford perfect - im sort of speechless - glad you took the time

[@patrickcarpenter6258]

I was talking to my partner about potting benches ideas and yours is pretty much 99% what I saw in my head That's so funny amazing thank you.

[@NickFerry]

That’s awesome - what are the odds

[@cobrawoodworks7686]

Watching this video in 2020 and hear "Thank you to Sears..." RIP!!

[@danielgeng2306]

I had to pause the video to run down to my shop to see if my dewalt had a depth stop, son of a gun it did ! Lol had the saw for 9 years and never noticed! Great project Nick, I see one in my wife’s future!

[@NickFerry]

Nice - you learned an extra feature to your saw

[@dbhoward56]

I had to pause the video...could not wait...impatience won out....I had to see if my compound miter saw...had that adjustment.....and it does!! Thanks Nick!!

[@NickFerry]

that's awesome - I've had a few saws that have and some that haven't - that's funny you did that - sounds like something I would do!

[@cr-ew8od]

Just popping out to the shed to check the same.

[@cr-ew8od]

Pleased to report that's affirmative

[@NickFerry]

awesome - ready to rock now!

[@robertoelconstructor5745]

I checked mine at the end of the video, thanks for the tip.

[@FiscalRangersFlorida]

I really appreciate you showing the graphics to understand the design. Not everyone explains it too well.

[@NickFerry]

Awesome - yeah this had a few iterations before it saw light

[@HopeStreetWoodworks]

Beautiful bench. By far the most detailed explanations and the quality of your work is just incredible. You inspire me to be a better wood worker. Thanks Nick.

[@NickFerry]

wow! thanks - I really appreciate that!

[@CandiceWA]

My God, Nick, I built a cedar outdoor table kind like yours 6 years ago, since then I have built many large things and learned lots more trick, but boy how much I learned from your short video is amazing. 1. how to keep the miter saw cut at a certain depth for dado cut. I had that on my saw, I didn't know how to use it. 2. Adding a board to get the layout line cut for the guide. 3. the dowel seter. 4. Just clamp a level to keep the top edge the same and more. A beautiful design of making a space to catch the falloff dirt. You are a great craftsman! Thank you for share Nick !!!!

[@NickFerry]

Much appreciated - glad you could get so much from it ✌🏼

[@tifu678]

This was a master class, my man. Very well, and beautifully, done. Thank you.

[@NickFerry]

Much appreciated - glad you found it helpful

[@roBLINDhood]

Thank you so much for this!! Not only is that a super cool form of joinery, but I never knew that you could set the depth of cut on a miter saw like that!!! I just checked and mine can do it too!! This is a game changer for me! Thank you so much!!!!

[@NickFerry]

No problem - glad I could help - it’s a good feature and opens up options for so much joinery

[@mariah4451]

A joy to watch from start to finish. You're so generous with your detailed explanations and tips, the bench turned out so beautifully and we even got a laugh at the end with your fun outtakes. I feel inspired :-)

[@NickFerry]

Thanks for the kind words - the devil is in the details

[@TheElevenBravo]

Me too! What a beautiful job he did! I also enjoyed the end of the video. So funny. God bless him! 👍

[@kennyjohnston8475]

You're a real craftsman Nick it was a pleasure to watch your video over here in Scotland.

[@NickFerry]

I appreciate your sentiment

[@loustoneberger8921]

Nick you do an exceptional job on your concise,clear presentation..very good job of editing..one of the best on KZbin 👍👍

[@NickFerry]

Much appreciated- very kind of you to say

[@michaeldarnell1633]

I made this bench, but 6 foot long. 2 tubs. Redwood frame. Cedar tops. The joints are amazing. It is very stout. So many options for mods. It was a fun build. Love the hidden fasteners. Better in all ways. Combo Teak oil/spar urethane. It will be around a long, long time! Thanks Nick!

[@NickFerry]

That’s great! If you post any picture try to tag me so I can see it - I’m glad I could be of some help

[@TheBeerbelly007]

Really like the no screws look---

[@NickFerry]

thanks - I was pretty happy when it was all complete

[@MaybeDave]

Yes! And dowels were way better than the pocket hole option.

[@janinelew2483]

I like the no screw look too. It was a labor of love!

[@JesusFChrist666]

You used screws on the legs

[@christydonahue4374]

So gorgeous! You were absolutely right to use the dowels!! Amazing 🙂

[@NickFerry]

Thank you kindly ✌🏼

[@wb_finewoodworking]

OUTSTANDING! That's one of the best KZbin videos I've seen and I've watched a lot. This is definitely a project I need to make for my wife. I loved the joinery and may use some of it in the workbench I'm currently working on for my shop. If I do I'll link to your video when I post mine on KZbin. Using the dowels was a super idea. That's one I will incorporate in this piece and perhaps some others in the future. Thanks for sharing Nick. Don Bullock - WB Fine Woodworking on KZbin, Facebook & Instagram

[@NickFerry]

thanks much for the kind words - that'll be awesome - let me know if/when you do and I will check it out for sure - #NickFerryBench

[@MrMichaelcurran]

Your attention to detail make viewing of your work clear and precise. Ya my wife would love it. We'll do it!

[@NickFerry]

Thank you kindly - have fun making it

[@patrickgagnon5450]

can you please tell us more about the finish in the "bag" I have never seen that before.Thanks

[@NickFerry]

it's pretty neat stuff - link to it in the article here - nickferry.com/2018/07/workbench-build-potting-bench-with-unique-joinery-ep89/ - was really nice to use

[@franktrice1497]

I learned something today. I love watching this guy work. He was able to build this sturdy work table without rolling out 10,000 dollars worth of equipment. The joinery is a real eye opener, and I learned about "Dowel Centers" and how to use them. I think I'm going to be watching a lot of Nick Ferry videos.

[@NickFerry]

thanks - it's all what you make of it

[@Snipercastt]

The best congratulations 🖖🇺🇸🤙

[@NickFerry]

thank you!

[@nguyenhan1448]

Nick.Not just great craftmanship but also well explanation. Inspired me to start another weekend project.

[@NickFerry]

that's awesome - glad I could help!

[@eln74]

Say Nick, this is a great project and the way you build it was awesome, just I need to ask for the software you are using to nicely sketch all the pieces. Can you tell me the name of it or where can I get it? Tnx in advance bro!! 👊🏻📐👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻🍻👌🏻👍🏻🗜🛠🤘🏻

[@NickFerry]

thanks - it is Sketchup - there are some free versions and some paid ones - you should be able to find both online

[@msgajhimelret9496]

Very well done Nick and that little "extra" touch you do; makes all the difference between us beginners and the Professional you are... I can see why "Sears" sponsored you Thanks so much

[@NickFerry]

Thanks much - I definitely don’t see myself as a pro - I think every project someone does you can learn something as well as try some new process or improve something you have done before - not only does that help hone skills and create a better result, but it keeps it fun and interesting - boredom and complacency are close cousins

[@msgajhimelret9496]

@@NickFerry Update; I'm doing a 3X6 Ft. Workbench/table saw using this joinery at the bottom inside corners and different joinery for the upper outside rails ( dove tail and mortise ), more of a show off touch.... take care.

[@jdlopezm]

1+ for the "no end grain exposed"

[@NickFerry]

thanks!

[@philackrill4213]

Beautiful piece Nick, and you're spot on using dowels, looks far better.

[@NickFerry]

thanks, I figured some would almost have to agree!

[@effnrad2127]

Hahahahaha!! Back when CAD was black and white!!!!

[@NickFerry]

haha - I was hoping some people would catch that

[@68HC060]

Yes, everyone knows that it was black and green. ;)

[@lakerplayer99]

Wow.....you took a whole other way of showing detail and the no screw look was definitely way longer than I would have done to be honest, but after watching the final product WOW nice little piece of art kinda wouldn't want to get it dirty now LOOKS GREAT WHAT A NICE JOB my wife you love to have that table especially with that wood grate look for the dirt to fall down onto.....what a great job again .....great detail ...👏👌👍💯

[@NickFerry]

Much appreciated - I’m glad you liked it - I really like how it all came together

[@duramax0103]

I like how clean it looks. Taking the time using dowels instead of screws gives it a very clean look.

[@NickFerry]

thanks much

[@kennykyle4813]

Nick, this looks great! I have to agree the dowel pins were the way to go.

[@NickFerry]

thank you - so clean this way

[@normjacques6853]

Cool project, Nick! My wife is getting one of these....with an added 'backsplash' and upper shelf to hold pots, tools, etc. I already have a spot picked out, and her (aging...like mine!) back and knees are going to be much happier....which means that she will be, too! Great video....Thanks!! :-)

[@NickFerry]

thanks Norm - I drew up some additions as well - I see that in my future

[@charliestricklen7689]

I just found this video while looking for a potting bench design to copy. I didn't expect to find one so elegant and well designed. It is gorgeous. Great work on the video and on the bench. I'm building this, starting right now.

[@NickFerry]

Thank you so much for the kind words - let me know how it goes if you post any pictures make sure to tag me 👊

[@chuckmaddox6725]

This is as beautiful as a potting bench can possibly be

[@NickFerry]

Thank you kindly

[@rainbowbudgies1129]

Thanks Nick. Your design and explanations were terrific and I really need a potting bench. I am eager to give your joinery a try.

[@Fleenoreric]

I’m glad you went with the dowels. It looks fabulous.

[@NickFerry]

thank you Eric - I'm glad I did too

[@HistoricHomePlans]

Beautiful little project. I can see this approach working with a lot of furniture pieces ... if if the wife is happy with it then it's definitely worth the extra effort!

[@NickFerry]

Thanks

[@martinnell9535]

I don't comment very often but when I watched you build this I had to. I am somewhat new at this woodworking and I simply love it. Your build inspired me to make one, but I am a disabled vet and live on a very tight budget. So I had to just copy a picture and try from that. It's not going to well. But thanks again. I love all your videos.

[@NickFerry]

much appreciated - don't be a stranger commenting - it's probably my favorite part of youtube - just remember on the joinery, all rails are half lap - brush up on that a bit and the rest should come together - I always enjoyed woodworking as a hobby and not a profession for that very reason - you can take it at your own pace & learn one step of a bigger build and not only are you further on the build, but you either introduced a new skill or honed an existing one - good luck and I hope to see you in the comments again!

[@martinnell9535]

@@NickFerry Thank you for your reply. I will take your advice and start making some half laps. lol

[@JohnColgan.]

Nice solid build. I totally agree on slat end grain, beautiful when sanded smooth. For external use, consider drill & screw rag bolts into the post endgrain so the wood isn't sat in a puddle wicking up pints of rain and maybe glue & wrap some DPM as an addition/alternate. Nice idea with the dowels as hidden fixings, don't even need to glue the slats, removable for cleaning or change function/layout

[@NickFerry]

Thanks John - the bolt trick is what I did last week for a raised planting bed - works great

[@scottnelle]

I've never seen that depth stop demonstrated before. That's awesome!

[@NickFerry]

thanks - I was hoping that people could get some ideas from that

[@scottnelle]

It's like a poor man's radial arm saw! I'm sure lots of sliding miter saws have this feature, but I've never seen it. So cool!

[@stevelangworthy1475]

Nice and clean, solid and still very attractive. Using dowels in stead of screws a really nice touch.

[@berthatton9410]

Nice. I think the dowel usage worked really well for the look.

[@NickFerry]

thanks Bert - I dug it too

[@kheirarabi992]

It turned out to be a very nice piece of fine furniture.

[@NickFerry]

thank you

[@MrWildapil]

great idea with the dowels. over-engineering makes the heart sleep well. looks fantastic! i am in the middle of an outdoor bar build. HALT!!! ADD IDEAS NOW!!! Thank you!

[@NickFerry]

very cool - let me know how your project goes with the new additions!

[@kenn1936]

Thank you for this video. I really learned a lot from this - especially the way you used the (mitre) saw to cut away the ends, in order to fix the legs.

[@NickFerry]

My pleasure man - glad you were able to pick up a couple things

[@kenn1936]

@@NickFerry Thank you Nick. I am a beginner and need all the help I can get. It was awesome to watch that technique ( I have to admit I have never switched my circular saw on....... I am a wimp). - sorry I mean I am a woman!!!!🤪

[@NickFerry]

All you showed is that you are smart enough to not use something you’re not 100% comfortable with - smart move

[@kenn1936]

@@NickFerry Thank you Nick - I don't know if I will ever use it!! too scary!!!

[@hawkowl455]

I like it Nick, I think I will use this idea for a worktable base.

[@NickFerry]

Awesome - hope it goes well

[@garrysmythe]

Having just watched your video, I guess the biggest compliment I can pay you is that I didn't want the video to end, brilliant joinery, great choice of design, simple but so neat, love the joints, and loved the use of dowels to create a seamless and uncluttered finish, Nick I salute you, your actual video presentation is a joy to watch, thanks for posting from Garry in the UK

[@NickFerry]

Thank you so much for your kind words - I was really happy how the project came together

[@TheSteveAS]

Nick, you turned a humble utilitarian outdoor table into a beautiful furniture piece! That finished cedar really does look amazing! The extra work you put in up front will bring joy to you and your wife every time you step outside! Well done Sir.

[@NickFerry]

For the kinds words - funny thing was we were just out there today planting more vegetables - love this bench - thanks for taking the time to check it out!

[@bubbatennessee7531]

A beauty of simplicity, thanks for sharing

[@NickFerry]

Thanks, my pleasure ✌🏼

[@normansidey5258]

Really nice job Nick, and very well presented , my daughter in law wants a potting bench and I think this version will be ideal for her, maybe not built as well as yours, but hopefully as useful as your one . Best wishes and thanks from the UK. 🇬🇧

[@NickFerry]

Thanks for the kind words - if you grab a picture of what you make, tag me somewhere, I’d love to see it! Best of luck

[@MOSTAFA131160]

very very good job, sturdy and valuable workbench. thank you for sharing this video.

[@TheSilverguy23]

dowels to attach the top boards looks great, nice work.

[@NickFerry]

thanks - I appreciate it

[@Kyle-ev4fk]

Nice work, those dowels look very time consuming, but I think you're right they were worth it.

[@NickFerry]

Thanks - it did give it a clean look

[@TheJerryWatson]

NIce! I am new to woodworking and getting ready to build a saw station for my saws. I am going to use this joinery system.Thanks Nick.

[@NickFerry]

very cool - let me know how it goes!

[@TheJerryWatson]

Thanks Nick!

[@anthonyreay3159]

Great project Nick just what my wife has asked for and you have made it so simple. Many thanks

[@NickFerry]

Thanks - glad I could help and you’ll have to let me know how it turns out

[@BradleyAllenNewman]

Your channel is awesome. Super clear and thorough, funny, and insightful.

[@NickFerry]

thanks man - I appreciate that - feel free to share it on social media - helps me spread the word about my channel

[@colinhawkins8265]

Not using screws on those slats was a great choice. The cedar really is beautiful. Nice work!

[@NickFerry]

thanks much Colin!

[@SkullyWoodMetal]

Beautiful bench Nick. You are right that design could adapt to shop furniture or any other table or bench design.

[@NickFerry]

thanks - I was even thinking a nice outdoor coffee table on a patio

[@honeybadgerisme]

Seriously awesome build! You were right about the dowels! It really looks great and you don’t have extra places for moisture to seep in from the top so you’ve made that sucker a long-lifer!

[@NickFerry]

Thanks much for the kind words - I hope it lasts for years to come

[@Osteolevignac]

yes awesome I was looking for out door kitchen and found this great vidéo . beautiful job with care and love . I'll take my time but you inspired me to do this way .thank you ! god bless your family

[@NickFerry]

I’m glad I could help - you’ll have to let me know how it turns out

[@AngieWilliamsDesigns]

It may have been more work but like you said.... The results speak for themselves. Looks great!

[@NickFerry]

thanks Angie - always good hearing from you!

[@AngieWilliamsDesigns]

Nick Ferry I love the joinery on this. Using the dowels really made a difference too.

[@mechminded2207]

Absolutely the right decision on the dowels. I am now subscribed.

[@NickFerry]

Thanks, I think so too - glad to have you here

[@davidmackay5422]

Absolutely beautiful Sir! Attention to detail is what sets you apart. Very impressed.

[@NickFerry]

Thank you - I enjoy challenging myself

[@luisp8999]

Woodworking and gardening go so well together. Very nice!

[@NickFerry]

Thanks, they sure do!

[@Ali-ct9pb]

Beautiful job. Looks awesome. Blessed wife.

[@alardon1126]

Very nice. Almost too nice to use! I imagine after several years now, it's still holding up well.

[@NickFerry]

She definitely needs a little TLC right now

[@mishaoriental8609]

This video taught me a lot. Decided to pursue woodworking (simple and easy projects, of course). Thanks for the easy to follow step by step. The easiest I viewed so far.

[@lawrencedavidson6195]

That turned out very nicely, looks perfect! Greetings from sunny Jamaica.

[@NickFerry]

Whaap’m

[@Ryamize]

Nick, all your videos are very inspirating. I used the potting bench joinery for my workbench construction and i can tell you, it's very solid and strong. Thanks...

[@NickFerry]

Thanks much - it is a nice joint

[@simoncrooks7441]

Nice job on the leg joinery, You are right it would be grate for a work bench. Thanks for the video

[@NickFerry]

You’re welcome - thanks for watching

[@darkcoolcat]

Staple 13:54 Love the way you describe everything in detail and not just skip through everything, excellent work as always, keep the videos coming

[@NickFerry]

thanks - I saw that too in editing and couldn't remember is I didn't see it, thought it was a sticker, or figured it was far enough away from the cut - either way it made me think

[@aleximd9244]

your video was pretty darn entertaining and you have a natural talent to explain. Cheers

[@NickFerry]

Thanks Alex

[@elemeralexandernagy5469]

Sir, you work like a pro... nice to learn from you.

[@sundayhusband]

Very nice, I liked the hidden dowel fasteners. I would only hang the top slats over the side rails to match the end rails.

[@NickFerry]

Thanks - I agree, that probably would have looked better

[@kylerunyan5950]

That is a great build and you did the wood justice by avoiding the screws! Well done!

[@terryannanderson8812]

Great potting table. I really like the tub underneath for the overflow dirt.

[@NickFerry]

thank you - it works pretty darn nice

[@thomaskelly1228]

Good to see a new project Nick. Unusual joint, looks great. Using dowels really added to the looks. Thanks.

[@NickFerry]

thanks Thomas - fun joint to do as well

[@com.s4210]

The most simplest but strong joint. Tq .

[@markpalmer3071]

That's really impressive, from someone who dovetailed sleepers for garden boxes, I don't think it was too much work for a potting bench.

[@NickFerry]

Thanks - it’s all how you look at it I suppose - some extra time upfront to get the results and longevity you want

[@nickolas9375]

Man, beautiful design, nice attention to detail and excellent explanation during video.

[@NickFerry]

Thanks much Nick!

[@anneofgreengables1619]

Beautiful workmanship & excellent commentary 😉

[@NickFerry]

thanks

[@danielgeng2306]

Nick, I have some Adirondack chair templates in my shop and I’ve been thinking how to connect the seat and back boards without using screws, you just solved the problem with the dowel idea ! I love this idea because water doesn’t get in the screw holes and soak the end grain and freeze and thaw etc. thank you sir !

[@NickFerry]

That’s awesome - if you do any social media and post pictures let me know I’d love to see how it turns out

[@danielgeng2306]

Nick Ferry will do, was just talking on to the woodworking community, the chairs are a Nick Engler design, most comfortable Adirondack chairs you’ll ever sit in ! “Don’t ruin this for me “ lol

[@davidquirk8097]

Really nice job. It looks beautiful and the jointing method looks great.

[@NickFerry]

Thank you my wife was very pleased with it so it was a win-win

[@cr-ew8od]

Great video. Hope you and the family are well.

[@NickFerry]

thanks - same to you and yours!

[@Uncle_Buzz]

Man, that turned out great for dimensional lumber...beautiful joinery. Cheers! Chris.

[@NickFerry]

thanks man - I'm pretty pleased with it

[@hiseminencetheholymacdiarmada]

I've built similar benches but never used any sort of finish, after seeing how yours looked with the finish I will definitely be using it from now on, looks really good. Well done!!

[@NickFerry]

thanks much!

[@frankblack1481]

A terrific video and project. I’ve been planning for ages to use the half-lap/mitre type top joinery for a workbench but your video is the only example I’ve seen on YT. Yours turned out so neat. I agree with you about the dowels - look fabulous. Thank you

[@NickFerry]

thanks - I fun joint to do for sure

[@Dave-YellowDogWelding]

Very nice. It was worth the time to use the dowels. Almost too nice to leave outdoors! ATB, Bill

[@NickFerry]

thanks man - it will be fun to see how it holds up outside too

[@wilborth5th]

Another extraterrestrial, you sir are amazing, what’s too much work? Who said that? My ohhh my I love your work, thanks for sharing God bless

[@NickFerry]

Much appreciated

[@poconojoe90]

You’re using a lot of different woodworking techniques that I can apply to a variety of other projects. Thanks for taking the time to show and describe their application. 👍

[@NickFerry]

You’re welcome - thanks for watching

[@bradymcphail9690]

Nick, My 1st time with ya today, and I'm sorry I've gone all this time without knowing about your channel. I've been a Welder for 2/3 of my life, and haven't been able to do much woodworking since I was a kid. We recently moved into a home with a great entertainment backyard with a pool. I really want to build all of the furniture for said backyard and getting inspiration. Thank you...

[@NickFerry]

better late than never - glad to have you here either way - I hide in the corners of youtube it seems - sounds like you have a ton of work to do - but it also sounds like a great space to customize and have a ton of fun in!

[@lcotler]

Nick, you're an articulate, caring teacher! Bravo!

[@NickFerry]

Thanks much

[@ronthornton2583]

A great Brownie points gatherer for Her Indoors. I like it!

[@NickFerry]

precisely!

[@conkcat]

Love those corner joints, that’s going to be the way now I do my workshop bench Thanks Nick, I really enjoy your videos they are down to earth, very simple and clean , as we would say in the UK “ no faffing”

[@NickFerry]

Thanks - I’m going to have to remember that - no faffing!

[@heesanoice7637]

Inasmuch as that's a simple structure suitable for gardening, the workmanship and attention to detail are what make it a family heirloom. Great job on that, brother. You inspire me !

[@NickFerry]

Much appreciated and I’m honored to be a source of inspiration

[@marty3553]

Hi nick I came across your video just in time I’m about to make a bench for my garage what you made is bloody brilliant so I’m going to make mine he same brilliant video thanks.

[@NickFerry]

That’s awesome - if you snag any pictures of what you come up with make sure to tag me another love to see it!

[@davidcraft4462]

Very Nice! I think I am going to use this for garage cabinets since they will also be work benches.

[@NickFerry]

That’s a great idea - if you post any pictures of what you come up with let me know

[@joeyleerobbins]

Love the joinery and the dowels. Really showcases the beauty of the finished cedar. It is a beautiful piece! Thanks for this project!

[@NickFerry]

thanks man - it's why we woodwork I think - just love seeing that wood grain and beauty

[@stevenrichardson6793]

Excellent video ! Great project and superb craftsmanship, thank you !!!

[@andreb.8266]

Very good ! You made it look easy and the look of it is impressive, Good job and thank you.

[@NickFerry]

Thanks - You’re welcome