A bench peg is one of the quiet essentials of jewellery making. The small wooden support brings the work to the edge of the bench, where the maker can see it clearly and work with greater control. It is also called a bench pin.
What does a bench peg do?
It supports a piece while you saw, file or refine its surface. A stable support helps prevent the metal moving unexpectedly. Different tasks need different ways of holding the work: the peg supports it, but does not automatically clamp it in place.
Start with a secure fit
Bench pegs may fit into a fixed holder or a clamp-mounted system. Check the shape and dimensions against your own fitting before ordering a replacement. A wooden peg alone is not a complete mounting system. Once fitted, it should remain secure while you work.
Why makers cut a notch
A V-shaped or U-shaped opening can give a piercing-saw blade clearance while leaving wood beneath the surrounding metal. Small grooves or recesses can support particular shapes. These are purposeful alterations: decide what the work needs before removing wood, and keep an unaltered peg available when a broad surface is more useful.
Support first, then cut
Keep the work firmly supported and use a relaxed, steady sawing rhythm. Excessive pressure and twisting can break a fine blade. Leave a little material outside the marked line for subsequent finishing, especially while learning. Collect precious-metal filings in a tray beneath the work.
Choosing your next peg
Our wooden bench peg for jewellery making is a wedge-shaped peg made in the United Kingdom and supplied individually, without a holder. If you need measurements to check your fitting, contact us before ordering.
Editorial image: an illustrative workshop setting with a shaped bench peg and additional tools; the holder, saw and metal are not included with the product.