In a method for machining bores of workpieces with a desired nominal shape of the bores in operative condition, a bore with a desired nominal shape in inoperative condition is produced in a workpiece and the workpiece is then put in operative condition. A deviation of the desired nominal shape of the bore resulting from the operative conditions is determined. Based on the deviation, an initial shape which shape the bore must have in inoperative condition in order for the bore to assume the desired nominal shape in operative condition is the determined. Bores are then produced by employing the determined initial shape as a template.