As a woodworker, you’ve probably already made this simple tool in the past. However, if you haven’t done so in a while and don’t know how it works, here is a basic tutorial on how to make one. This woodwork block is great for when you’re sanding or when you need to apply some finishing oil or wax.
Step 1:
Use a piece of scrap wood to make the base of your block. Drill four holes on each corner of the piece and screw it into the base (which you also drilled). [Note: Some people use dowels instead, but I prefer screws because they allow me to disassemble the tool without ruining any of my work.]
Step 2:
Cut two pieces out of scrap wood to make the handle. Shape it in a way that is comfortable for you. I made mine at about 30 degrees and angled in an X with the handle and wheel in the middle.
Step 3:
Drill four holes in your two pieces of scrap wood with a 1/16″ bit. [Note: I use my Jigsaw with an angle guide to making the holes with no trouble.] Drive screws into the existing holes to attach them to your wheel. [Note: I find it works best to do this on a flat surface.]
Step 4:
Put your circuit board on top of the piece of wood you cut for the base and screw it into place. [Note: This is where you’ll be placing your sandpaper. I recommend making the holes slightly larger than the sandpaper because that will allow for easier removal and replacement.]
Step 5:
Put some glue on top of your base and then place it on top of your wheel. Screw it on with screws. [Note: I glue mine with epoxy, but you can use white glue or another type of glue.]
Step 6:
Place your sandpaper on top of your wheel and then lightly screw the wheel into the base. One side of the wheel will be exposed where you will pass the sandpaper over it.
Step 7:
Put some glue on top of the wood piece that you are attaching to the base. [I like to use white glue because it dries very quickly and is easy to remove.] Attach it to the base, and screw it on with screws.
Step 8:
Make sure that the sandpaper is firmly attached to the top of the wheel by periodically turning it back and forth. I find that this keeps your sandpaper from sliding off the wheel too easily.
Step 9:
In order to have easy access to the sandpaper, you will need to make the handle on the other side of the block. You might want to make it very small or not at all. A good size for me was about 2 inches square, but you can make it larger or smaller depending on your preference. I recommend making your handle with wood that is also used for the base.
Step 10:
When you’re finished, sand the entire block well. This will help it to last longer and will prevent you from getting splinters from your block. You can now use your sanding block for all kinds of woodwork projects. [Note: I usually remove the sandpaper and replace it with a fresh piece before I go to a project.]
Joey Miller
Author at BND Abrasives
This article was written by Joey Miller from BND Abrasives, an Abrasive Convertor & Industrial Supplier in the UK.
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