Hi, I'm Jeremy. I'm in year 10 and have a personal interest in all things mechanical.

Over the past year, for a school project, I’ve been designing a replica of a traditional cast-iron English vise that's double the original scale.

I based the design on my grandfather's 1950s Woden bench vise

WHY?

Apart from being a fun challenge, this project is a tribute to classic machine-age craftsmanship — back when things were built to last.

But it isn’t just about building a vise.

It’s about learning about advanced manufacturing firsthand, personal growth and inspiring other students and makers to push the limits of design and engineering.

THE VISE FEATURES

If I'm able to fund a prototype, it could become the largest functional cast-iron bench vise ever built.

This is a 3D model of the vise.

It will boast some impressive specs:

Every part (from the ductile iron castings to the 4140 steel screw and bronze half-nut) will be engineered to industrial standards using modern computer-aided design, machining, and casting techniques.

CAN YOU HELP?

I’ve reached the stage where I’m ready to have the castings made and the bronze components machined.

To make this possible, I’m seeking support to raise $10,000. This will cover the cost of the materials, foundry work and transporting the end product.

Every contribution helps me reach this goal.

I spend a lot of my spare time tinkering in my shed.

I’ll be sharing regular updates, 3D models, and progress photos along the way.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read this — and for helping me bring this overbuilt, over-engineered dream project to life!

Jeremy