Small improvements can make a big difference in the workshop. A flexible wire tie can become a custom finishing hook, a printed chart can save time when sizing drill bits, and a simple trash bag can keep scraps from piling up on the bench.
In this collection of Woodsmith Quick Tips, four readers share inexpensive ways to organize finishing work, simplify measurements, speed up cleanup, and get more use from sandpaper.
1. Make Adjustable Finishing Hooks from Aluminum Fence Ties
Finding a convenient way to support molding and picture frames while a finish dries can be challenging. Different shapes and sizes often call for different hanging arrangements.
Dave Rodman of Minot, North Dakota, uses aluminum fence ties to make his own adjustable finishing hooks.
The ties are easy to bend into custom shapes, allowing Dave to create supports for the particular piece he's working on. He uses them to hang molding and picture frames while they dry.
When he needs a different shape, Dave reshapes a tie with pliers. The ties are also compact and easy to store between projects.
Woodsmith Tip: Check that each hook securely supports the workpiece before applying finish. Hang pieces in a stable, well-ventilated area, and keep them away from anything that could touch the wet surface.
Shop tip submitted by Dave Rodman, Minot, North Dakota.
2. Keep an SAE and Metric Conversion Chart Near Your Calipers
Woodworking often involves switching between fractional inches, decimal measurements, and millimeters. That can be inconvenient when you're measuring hardware or trying to select a drill bit that closely matches a particular dimension.
Min-Hao Kuo of East Lansing, Michigan, created a handy reference chart using a spreadsheet program.
His chart lists equivalent fractions, decimals, and millimeters, allowing him to compare measurements at a glance. Because he made it in a spreadsheet, he can print custom-sized versions to suit different locations in his shop.
Min-Hao keeps one copy with his calipers so it's readily available when checking dimensions or sizing drill bits.
Woodsmith Tip: Keep a copy of your conversion chart near your drill bits, too. For a hole that needs a precise fit, measure the actual bit and hardware rather than relying solely on nominal sizes.
Shop tip submitted by Min-Hao Kuo, East Lansing, Michigan.
3. Add a Convenient Trash Bag to Your Workbench
Small scraps, used sandpaper, and other debris can quickly clutter a workbench. Having a trash bag within reach makes it easier to clean up as you work.
Len Urban of Rancho Mirage, California, came up with a simple bench-mounted holder.
He attaches two binder clips to the end of his workbench with screws. The clips hold a wood slat and trash bag in place, creating an easy-access collection point for small shop waste.
When the job is finished, Len empties the bag so it's ready for the next task.
Woodsmith Tip: Position the bag where it won't interfere with clamps, vises, or moving around the bench. Keep oily finishing rags and other potentially combustible waste out of an ordinary trash bag; dispose of them according to the finish manufacturer's instructions.
Shop tip submitted by Len Urban, Rancho Mirage, California.
4. Remove Metal Filings to Extend the Life of Sharpening Sandpaper
Sandpaper is a useful abrasive for flattening the backs of chisels. But as you work, fine steel filings can collect on its surface.
Michael Goodwin of Springville, Indiana, uses a rare-earth magnet to remove those filings and get more use from his sandpaper.
Rather than placing the magnet directly on the abrasive, Michael slips it into a small plastic bag.
He passes the bagged magnet over the sandpaper. The magnet attracts loose steel filings, collecting them on the outside of the bag.
When he's finished, Michael turns the bag inside out to contain the filings and removes the magnet. This makes it easy to discard the metal particles without having to scrape them off the magnet itself.
Removing loose filings helps keep the abrasive cleaner between sharpening sessions.
Woodsmith Tip: This technique collects magnetic metal particles, but it won't restore abrasive grit that's worn out. Replace the sandpaper when it no longer cuts effectively. Keep strong magnets away from sensitive electronics and handle collected metal filings carefully.
Shop tip submitted by Michael Goodwin, Springville, Indiana.
Simple Ideas for a More Efficient Woodshop
These four reader-submitted tips put inexpensive materials to work. Aluminum fence ties become reusable finishing hooks, a printed conversion chart simplifies measurement, a bench-mounted trash bag keeps the workspace tidy, and a bagged magnet helps remove steel filings from sharpening sandpaper.
Each idea is easy to adapt to your own tools, projects, and workshop setup.
