Correct bench height?

[fingercuttinbad]

Hello all. It's me again. I just can't help picking your brains here.

I started a post yesterday about my thumb going numb and got some great advise! I have been going at it today and so far no problems.

I was just wondering if the carving bench I built may be too high and contributing to my problem. Is there a rule of thumb about the height I should have my project? I stand when I carve and the bench height is just below my belly button. I hate bending over to carve but I could always cut a few inches of the legs of the bench if need be.

Any replies would be appreciated.

Brian

[Gulf Coast Handyman]

My bench is about 3' high, I am 5' 11". I built it that high because it worked for my height, so I guess it depends on what's comfortable for you. Hope that helps.

Dave

[Merle Rice]

I read somewhere that the height of your piece should be even with your Elbow while standing with your arm bent toward your work piece. I find that works for me and is comfortable. Merle

[fingercuttinbad]

Thanks for the input. I think I'll just keep it how it is now and see how it goes.

[gtech]

Mine is 30" high and I have to bent my back to carve. So it's too low. But I am waiting for a carving vise that should add just enough to make it more comfortable for my back. You have to be able to keep your back almost straight without having to move up your arms too much for a good position.

Check the tension in your back and in your shoulders.

The Complete Book of Woodcarving ... - Google Livres

[brent]

I agree with Merle on the height.

[chuckbolton]

curious about this-- i just finished a bench-- its 38 inches-- im 43 at the elbow-- im sure not saying merle is wrong-- i think its personal preference-- i just knew the counter top in the house was 34.5 and i wanted it higher-- also have a stool i sometimes sit on-- wanted it tall enough for that.

[Hi_Ho_Sliver]

Merles height is just about what my chiropractor recommends...I have neck problems occasionally, especially when carving, he says something like a shoulder high dresser would be about right, then you are looking straight at your carving not with your head down......sounds awkward but really is pretty comfortable....you can rest your forearms on the top while carving...imho

[Merle Rice]

Chuck you and I have the same sizes. Bench,38", Elbo 43",. I have a vise to hold my work and it is 5" which can be tilted to my liking. 38"+5"=43". This is only a rule of thumb to start with, not written in stone. As you said it's a personal preference Merle

[Dicky]

I usually stand to carve and I like to carve at my bar in the basement. Standard bar height is 42".