How to Set Up Your Jewelry Bench

A Step-by-Step Guide

- STORY & PHOTOS BY MARK FARRELL

The jewelry-making tool bench is an often overlooked but essential tool. It's the sturdy, reliable foundation of your shop, offering stability and storage while supporting your work. Creating the perfect jewelry bench setup is as unique as the work produced there. It’s not about having every tool or an expensive setup; it’s about building a comfortable, organized space where everything is within reach, allowing you to work uninterrupted for hours.

EVOLVING TO SUIT CHANGING NEEDS

Your jewelry bench should evolve with you as an artist. As your career progresses, your needs change and your bench setup should adapt accordingly. Depending on the jeweler, benches can range from a small, simple space to a fully equipped workstation. On a personal note, when my wife and I started Buffalo Craft in 2010, we worked from a small, carpeted spare bedroom in our rented apartment in Buffalo, NY. Every holiday brought a new tool, and after five years, I had accumulated almost every hand tool under $150. Looking back, I realize I should have focused on the essential tools specific to my craft, rather than buying whatever was affordable. Over time, my bench has evolved to meet my changing needs.

STYLES & SET UPS

Jewelry bench styles range from affordable and universal to high-end, specialized setups. Basic wooden benches can cost anywhere from $400 to $2000, depending on the size and materials. They're customizable and come in pieces for easy assembly. These are great for beginners and professionals, offering sturdiness, a small footprint and versatility.