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Frequently Asked Questions
Each purchase includes a complete set of detailed woodworking plans with step-by-step instructions, cut lists, supply lists, hardware references, and detailed diagrams. Depending on the plan package, additional guides may also be included to help with tool-specific modifications and lumber variations. The exact contents of each package are listed on the individual product page.
Both Imperial and Metric versions are included with our Table Saw Workbench and Table Saw + Miter Saw Workbench plan packages, so you can use whichever measurement system best suits your build.
Some specialized plan packages, including the DWS779/DWS780 Workbench Plans and Router Fence Plans, are currently available in Imperial measurements only. Please refer to the individual product page for the measurement options included with each plan package.
The workbench plans are designed to accommodate a wide range of table saw and miter saw makes and models. Because dimensions and configurations vary between manufacturers, some adjustment may be required to properly fit your particular tools.
To help with this, the workbench plan packages include a detailed Modification Guide that walks you through measuring your saw and determining the necessary adjustments before you begin your build.
If you’re unsure about a particular saw, feel free to contact us at support@vanislestudio.ca and we’ll be happy to help where we can.
Absolutely. Many builders have adapted the workbench to better suit their available space, tools, and preferred layout. Builds have been shortened, narrowed, and reduced in depth, and the rotating miter saw assembly has been repositioned closer to the table saw, moved to the opposite end, and incorporated into other custom layouts.
When changing the overall dimensions, it’s important to consider how those changes may affect the framing, tool clearances, and operation of the workbench. If you get hung up along the way, feel free to contact us at support@vanislestudio.ca. We’re always happy to help with reasonable questions and guidance within the framework of the original design.
Yes. A router or router lift can be incorporated into the workbench, and many builders have successfully added one to their builds.
On the Table Saw + Miter Saw Workbench, a popular location is the open area behind the rotating miter saw assembly, which provides approximately 24 × 32 inches of usable space. Another option is to reposition the rotating miter saw assembly closer to the table saw and install the router at the opposite end of the workbench.
The router location and opening can be adapted to suit your particular router or lift. If you’re also using the VanIsle Studio Router Fence, additional information is provided with those plans to help with its installation and layout.
As with any modification, carefully check the dimensions and operating clearances of your particular equipment before making your cuts.
These workbenches have been successfully built by everyone from first-time and beginner woodworkers to experienced builders and professionals. The plans are designed to take you through the build step by step, with detailed instructions and diagrams that make the process approachable even if you’re relatively new to woodworking.
Careful measurement and accurate cuts are important, so we strongly recommend checking and calibrating your saws before beginning. If your saw is set to make a 90° cut, for example, make sure it’s actually cutting at 90°. Starting with properly calibrated tools will make the assembly process much easier and help you achieve the best possible results.
Take your time, work through the plans one step at a time, and you may be surprised by what you can build.
The tools required will vary depending on the plan package and how you choose to approach your build. Most workbench builds can be completed using common woodworking tools such as a table saw, miter saw, router, circular saw, and drill.
Additional tools can make certain steps easier, but are not always required. Please refer to the individual product page for a complete list of the minimum and recommended tools for each build.
Build costs vary depending on your location, material selection, hardware, and the options you choose to incorporate into your workbench. For workbench plan packages where an estimated build cost is available, you’ll find it included in the product listing images.
Your plans are delivered digitally immediately following a successful purchase. You’ll receive access to your downloadable files through your order confirmation, allowing you to save the plans directly to your computer or device.
If you have any trouble accessing your files, please contact us at support@vanislestudio.ca and we’ll be happy to help.
Yes. All plan files are designed to be printed on standard 8.5 × 11 in (Letter size) paper and can be printed from a home printer or local print shop.
Yes. Our plans are continually refined as designs evolve, new tool configurations are explored, and feedback is received from builders. Updates may include additional information, improved diagrams, clarifications, or other refinements intended to make the plans easier to follow and use.
If you have previously purchased a plan package and have a question about whether a newer version is available, please contact us at support@vanislestudio.ca with your order number and we’ll be happy to help.
If you purchased the wrong plan package and have not yet downloaded the files, please contact us at support@vanislestudio.ca with your order number. In most cases, we’ll be happy to help exchange your purchase for the plan package you intended to order.
Once digital files have been downloaded or accessed, exchanges may not be possible. If you’re unsure, please reach out and we’ll be happy to take a look at your order and see how we can help.
If you experience any difficulty downloading or opening your plans, first try downloading the files again and saving them directly to your computer or device. We also recommend opening PDF files with a current PDF reader such as Adobe Acrobat Reader.
If you’re still having trouble, please contact us at support@vanislestudio.ca with your order number and we’ll be happy to help get you up and running.
Occasionally, a PDF may appear blank or fail to display correctly in certain browsers or PDF viewers. If this happens, download the file directly to your computer, then right-click the downloaded file, select “Open With,” and choose Adobe Acrobat Reader.
If the pages still appear blank, please contact us at support@vanislestudio.ca with your order number and we’ll be happy to help.
Absolutely. If a question comes up while working through your build, please feel free to reach out at support@vanislestudio.ca. We’re always happy to help clarify the plans, answer questions, and provide reasonable guidance within the framework of the original design.
When contacting us, including a few photos along with a clear description of what you’re working through can be very helpful and makes it much easier for us to understand your question and point you in the right direction.