Attached are three photos of my first contruction attempt at benchwork. Basic framing is 1x4s joined using the Kreg pocket hole jig and glued. These are two 2'x4' "modules" I built to get my Pastor (a frustrated model railroader) started laying track. Legs are built up 9/32" 10 ply plywood (salvaged from shipping boxes from our parts distribution center that shares our region office building). The tall lengths on the back legs will support 15" tall masonite backdrops. The modules are aligned with dowels and fastened together with knock-down through bolts. Legs can be removed as well. The lefthand module will store under the other with 2" to spare with the legs removed.
Looks pretty good and sturdy, Keith! If you're interested in the Houck Lines and modeling the old Hoxie Sub and associated branches, check out what Jim James is doing in Cape... http://www.frisco.org/vb/showthread.php?t=2170&highlight=zalma http://www.frisco.org/vb/showthread.php?t=1986&highlight=zalma
More benchwork testing: I have built up a sample 24" x 48" section of frame work from my salvage 9/32" x 2 3/8" 10ply plywood that comes in lengths 42 1/2" long and 23" long. My sample is made of two pieces, one 24" X 32" and one 16" x 24" with pocket holed/glued joints then both screwed and glued together as one piece. Also I have laid out a sample upright to support my upper deck using combinations of lengths so joints won't line up, laid up three boards thick with the deck supports sandwiched between the two outer layers. On a sample that I made, I can support my 200+ lb weight on the single horizontal piece that sticks out with very little deflection in that piece and none in the upright. The upright will not twist or bend due to the 30 total plies of its structure. My plan is to fasten the upper end of the uprights to or between the floor joists above to secure them in place. See pix below.
