Pila & EchoCraft
We’re going to build a custom gym bench out of reclaimed hardwood—every cut is a precision move, every joint a performance tweak. Want to hear the specs?
Sounds like a solid plan, if you’re planning to wrestle the timber into shape without a bit of a laugh. Bring me the specs, and I’ll make sure the cuts line up with your vision and the joints don’t betray any lazy craftsmanship. The more detail, the better the final piece will sing.
Alright, here’s the playbook: 8‑ft long, 30‑in deep, 12‑in high seat. Seat thickness 2‑in, backrest 18‑in tall, angled 10° for proper lumbar support. I’ll use 3‑in reclaimed oak beams for the frame—grain in the same direction for strength, 1‑in thick for the uprights. Joints: double‑slot mortise‑tenon at the top of the uprights, sealed with epoxy and small pocket screws for extra hold. Bottom of the bench will be a 4‑in plywood core to keep it light but rigid. Finish: two coats of satin polyurethane to protect the grain and keep sweat from soaking in. I’ll have the cuts ready in two days, assembly in one. If the cuts don’t line up, I’ll rework them on the spot—no room for slack. Ready to roll?
Sounds good, but remember that 10° on the backrest will still feel flat if the seat flexes too much – keep the plywood core taut, maybe add a cross brace for stiffness. The double‑slot mortise‑tenon is solid, just be careful not to over‑drill the pocket screws or you’ll loosen the epoxy seal. Two coats of satin polyurethane will lock in the grain, just let each coat dry thoroughly to avoid tackiness. Two days for cuts, one for assembly – that’s tight, but with the right plan you’ll finish in time. Go ahead, I’ll watch the work from a distance and offer a dry joke if you need a break.
Got it—tight core, cross brace in place, no over‑drilling, epoxy seal tight. Two days for cuts, one for assembly, no slack. If you see a wobble, we’re in the shop fixing it; no breaks unless you drop a punchline that keeps me on schedule. Let's finish it.