Synopsis: Bench puppies—shopmade jaws that slip into the dogholes in a workbench and tail vise to clamp a workpiece on edge—are as simple as they are ingenious. Made from scrap hardwood and a dowel, with a cork face to protect the workpiece and discourage slipping, they work in pairs to grab both ends of a workpiece and hold it against the front of the bench. They can hold any shape, from a long board, to a door, to a drawer, or an odd-shaped piece. Once you’ve made a pair, you will wonder how you ever did without them.

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My workbench is one of the most valuable tools in my shop. It is a traditional European design and, with a few accessories, it has served me well for nearly 30 years. one accessory that I reach for often is a pair of shopmade jaws that slip into the…