Buying A Jeweler’s Workbench? Here’s What You Need To Know

A jeweler’s workbench is where a bunch of metal pieces and gemstones transform into beautiful jewelry. Essentially, it’s where the magic happens!

Every artist needs a place to create and jeweler’s are no exception. Just as an architect needs a drafting table, jeweler’s need a workbench. Whether you make jewelry at home as a hobby or you’re a professional jewelry maker, investing in a workbench is a smart idea. You’ll want to have a comfortable and devoted workspace to bring your ideas to life.

In this article, we’re highlighting the key features of a jeweler’s workbench to help you find the right option for you.

Things To Consider When Buying a Jeweler’s Workbench

Your workbench is where you’ll be spending most of your time, so there are a few things to address before settling on the right workbench. The styles can vary, but there are key features you’ll want to consider, including:

The Height of Your Bench

Before picking a workbench, you need to think about the height of the bench as well as your own height. How high should a jewelry workbench be? It should match up with your chest when you are sitting down. You want to have adequate room to move around without hunching or feeling confined.

The workbench should be taller than standard tables to prevent discomfort from slouching or hunching over. When shopping around for a workbench, keep an eye out for the dimensions of each model. The distance from the bottom to the center drawer tells you where you fit in the mix. You don’t want it to be too low or your knees will bump it. Additionally, if it’s too tall you’ll be reaching upward which can add strain to your muscles and back.

This is somewhere you’ll be spending countless hours, so take time to make sure the bench measurements suit your own.

Side Drawers

Any artisan has an extensive tool box. Jewelers work with a wide variety of tools, including pliers, saws, files, crimpers, hammers, wire cutters… the list goes on. That’s why it’s crucial to buy a jeweler’s workbench that can accommodate all of your important tools.

Enter: side drawers.

You don’t want to just throw your tools in any old drawer. Side drawers help you work efficiently and quicker because every item has its own home. Buy a workbench that has a generous amount of drawers in varying heights and sizes to fit a wide variety of tools and jewelry making supplies.

Handles

With so many drawers installed in your workbench, you want to easily move in and out of them. Hello, handles! We should clarify: handles are an entirely personal preference and jewelers seem to either love or hate them. Bottom line: decide if you like or dislike handles and buy a bench accordingly.

If you find a workbench that checks all the boxes but is missing handles, you can always easily add some. This option gives you the luxury of customizing the drawer knobs to match your taste and work style.

A Lined Tray

This element of a jewelry workbench is absolutely necessary. A lined drawer or “catch tray” is a center drawer that catches all the scraps and shavings from your work. The reason these pans are so helpful is that they catch and collect all of your filings and scraps, saving you time when cleaning up.

A Walled Bench Top

The top of the bench serves several purposes which is why it’s a worthy mention when discussing jeweler’s workbench features. Having a walled bench top will prevent your tools and items from rolling off the top of your bench. Additionally, a heavy duty top will allow you to press harder, lean into your bench and support you while you work.

Types of Jeweler Workbenches

From beginner to professional models, here are the popular options for buying a jeweler’s workbench:

Compact or “Mini” Jeweler’s Workbench

A great choice for beginners and experts alike is a mini jewelry workbench. These are particularly helpful for small spaces or artists who already have a large table that it can be placed on top of.

Beginner’s Workbench Models

Another option for beginner jewelers is to buy an affordable jewelry workbench that is not as elaborate as a professional workbench. These styles have just a few drawers and one catch tray, making them a perfect candidate for beginner jewelry makers.

Professional Jewelry Workbench

Experienced and expert jewelers will want to invest in a professional workbench. These feature over a dozen drawers for all of your tools, a drawer with a lock for security, and two catch trays. Additionally, they come equipped with a bench pin mount. To make those long hours of crafting and creating much more comfortable, professional jewelry benches have retractable armrests.

Setting Up A New Jewelry Bench

Once you’ve settled on your desired workbench, there are additional accessories you’ll need to get your workspace set up. You may want to buy some holders for the tools you’ll be using most, which you can place on the top of the bench. Lastly, you want to have a very comfortable chair or stool that is height adjustable.

We’ve covered all of the important features of a jeweler’s workbench, now let’s talk budget. How much should you pay for your workbench?

How Much Does A Jeweler’s Workbench Cost?

If you’re shopping online you’ll find many choices for your jeweler’s workbench. If you are experimenting with making jewelry, or it’s a hobby, there are workbenches available for around $150.

However, this will simply not cut it for an experienced jewelry maker as the size and features are limited. The next option is an intermediate workbench, which is larger and has side drawers for your tools. These jeweler’s workbenches will run around $300-$500.

A professional jeweler’s workbench can cost around $1,000.00. While the price tag might seem high, your workbench is the heart of your studio, and you don’t want to skimp out here. Doing so can limit your workspace, create frustration and ultimately stifle your business.

And that’s everything you need to know about buying a jeweler’s workbench! Whether you make bracelets for friends and family or are a professional artist, a workbench is the haven where your greatest creations come to life.

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