Kung Fu Bench Plans for Woodworking

長橋櫈 - Kung Fu Bench

Over the years, many people have asked for kung fu bench measurements and plans. Though I did have measurements, I did not have exact measurements for the mortise and tenon joinery. About 15 years ago I built over a dozen benches using metal construction brackets to secure the legs, and although they held pretty well, it was a very low grade version of the bench in comparison to the benches at Doc-Fai Wong Center that were built by a cabinet maker.

So finally, I decided to take the time and practice mortise and tenon joinery and build a bench right. Here's the YouTube video of my process (failures included).

In the end you can always modify it to meet your needs. My next bench will be about 10-20cm longer for easier rolling and I will adjust the leg holes on the bench plank according to the new length.

Materials and Cut List

I used pine, and it actually held up surprisingly well! However, I'd suggest an using a hardwood like maple, bass, or oak.

Bench Plank Detail

Leg Tenon Detail

This was the most difficult part of the process, so I suggest first using a spare piece to test your measurements and angles, and I also recommend cutting your legs to length after you cut the tenon and test it in the mortise.

Bench Assembly