Woodworking Tip:
When I tilt the table on my stationary narrow belt sander for beveled work, the gap in front of the belt grows wider to the point where smaller parts can drop through. To close this void, I made a reducer from a piece of stiff sheet metal with a length of self-adhesive magnetic strip adhered to its back side. The magnet holds the reducer firmly to the sander’s table as shown. When not in use, I simply store it on the back of the machine.
—Dave Black, Holdrege, Nebraska
Smart Solutions for Small Shop Problems
Woodworkers often face unexpected challenges that call for creative thinking. Dave’s gap filler is a great example of the kind of quick fix that belongs on every list of woodworking hacks. It doesn’t require custom parts or complicated fabrication—just common materials used in a clever way. For small shops where every tool and part needs to earn its keep, a tip like this keeps the workflow moving and helps prevent damage to smaller workpieces.
More Woodworking Tips and Tricks for Sanders
Stationary sanding machines are essential, but they’re not always built with small parts in mind. To improve results, consider these three additional woodworking tips and tricks:
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Use a scrap-board backer when sanding thin stock to support the piece and prevent it from catching or tipping.
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Apply a bit of paste wax to the table surface to help parts glide smoothly without catching.
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Always keep a small brush nearby to remove dust buildup that can affect accuracy.
Add These Woodworking Sanding Tips to Your Routine
Combine Dave’s solution with other proven woodworking sanding tips to stay efficient and precise. Use sanding blocks to control pressure on delicate edges. Label grits on sanding belts to save time when swapping. Keep your belt tracking dialed in to avoid drift. These woodworking tricks reduce frustration and support cleaner results across every project.
