Simple Bench Hook + Shooting Board
Build a simple bench hook from three pieces of scrap 3/4-inch plywood. The 10 x 12-inch base has two cleats attached at opposite ends on opposite faces with glue, brad nails, and two screws per cleat. Use it for handsaw cuts or as a basic shooting board for squaring ends with a hand plane.
Woodworking · Beginner · 30 minutes, plus glue drying time
Tools
- Tape Measure
- Combination Square
- Pencil
- Brad Nailer
- Sandpaper
- Drill, drill bit, countersink and driver bit
- Table saw
Materials
- 3/4" plywood
Hardware
- 4 x 1 1/4 -inch wood screws
- 1 1/4 -inch brad nails
- Wood glue
Cut list
- Base — 1 × 10 in x 12 in x 3/4 in 3/4" plywood
- Cleats (top fence and underside hook) — 2 × 10 in x 1-1/4 in x 3/4 in 3/4" plywood
Diagrams
Build steps
Choose your plywood
• Use flat 3/4-inch scrap plywood without loose layers or damaged edges.
Cut the parts
• Cut one 10 x 12-inch base and two 10 x 1-1/4-inch cleats. Keep the cuts straight and square.
Attach the underside hook
• Glue one cleat underneath the base, flush with one end and both sides. Clamp and pin with brad nails, then predrill, countersink, and drive two 1-inch screws through the cleat into the base.
Attach the top fence
• Flip the base over and attach the second cleat on top at the opposite end. Keep it flush with the end and sides, and square to the long edges. Glue, clamp, nail, and secure with two countersunk 1-inch screws. Keep fasteners clear of saw and plane paths.
Sand and check
• Let the glue dry. Sand off splinters and lightly ease sharp edges. Keep the working edges straight and square. Make sure screw heads are recessed and no screw or nail points stick out.
Use your bench hook
• Hook the lower cleat over the bench edge and hold your work against the top fence for handsaw cuts. Keep your holding hand clear of the saw. • For shooting, lay your hand plane on its side on the bench beside the base. Hold the work flat against the fence and take light passes to square the end. Secure the jig as needed and keep the blade clear of fasteners.
Safety notes
- Wear safety glasses, hearing protection, and appropriate respiratory protection when cutting, sanding, routing, or machining materials.
- Read the entire project plan and confirm all measurements, material sizes, and tool setups before beginning any cuts or assembly.
- Always follow manufacturer safety instructions and use proper safety equipment such as push sticks, guards, clamps, and stable work supports.
- Never operate tools while fatigued, distracted, or under the influence, and seek supervision or assistance when using unfamiliar tools or techniques.
- MakerMind provides informational project guidance only; users are responsible for safe tool operation, verifying measurements, and maintaining a safe workshop environment.
Common mistakes to avoid
Cleats on the same face
Why it happens: Both cleats are accidentally attached to the top of the base.
How to avoid: Attach one cleat underneath one end and the other on top at the opposite end.
Fence out of square
Why it happens: The fence shifts during glue-up or fastening.
How to avoid: Check the fence against the long edge with a square, then clamp it securely before nailing and screwing.
Exposed fasteners
Why it happens: Fasteners are too long, driven too deeply, or placed in a cutting path.
How to avoid: Check fastener length against the actual plywood thickness. Recess screw heads, check for protruding points, and keep all fasteners clear of saw and plane paths.
Finishing suggestions
- Leave unfinished. Sand splinters and keep working edges straight and square.