| A workbench is technically a workstation. However, it | | | | workbench then you have a sentimental value |
| is used in many different types of work right from | | | | attached and do not want to part with it. In cases like |
| metalworking to woodworking. The construction of the | | | | this a little refurbishing will give it a whole new look and |
| bench and the material used to build it should be | | | | purpose. |
| compatible with the types of work it is being used for. | | | | A company called Staples Cabinet Makers salvages |
| Today antique workbenches are becoming very | | | | antique workbenches and modifies them by polishing, |
| popular for the sheer variety of their use. You can find | | | | adding a drawer, staining, etc and gives them a whole |
| them in junk stores, antique shops, at yard sales, etc. | | | | new purpose. For example, they have taken one such |
| for a low price. Another great place to look is the | | | | unit and added a drawer and a shelf, adjusted the |
| internet where individual may be selling them or you | | | | height and have created a one of a kind center island |
| may find an online store that specializes in them. They | | | | for the kitchen. They are experts in the world of |
| may not be usable for the same work that they were | | | | antiques and know exactly what to look for. |
| intended for when built. But with a little creativity you | | | | We found an individual selling one such piece. They |
| can put these pieces to great use. | | | | had a solid antique maple workbench with one vise on |
| You can polish or stain them to match your existing | | | | the front and one on the side. The front one was |
| furniture and use them as side tables, breakfast | | | | replaced with an antique vise. It measured 78"L x 24" |
| stations or sideboards. You can sand them for a rustic | | | | W x 33"H. In cases like this you may even be able to |
| look or add a little design. Height can be adjusted by | | | | negotiate a better price and if you are creative and |
| cutting the legs or adding new ones or a new drawer | | | | handy you can do wonders with such a unit and |
| or shelf may be put in. A great way to disguise | | | | increase its value manifold. |
| scratches and nicks is to fill the surface with | | | | In short, antique workbenches need not be a part of |
| decoupage epoxy or polyester coating. This will give a | | | | history. They can be worked upon with great results |
| clean look. If one of your forefathers used a | | | | and brought to use today. |