Small problems during sanding and assembly can turn into frustrating interruptions. Accidentally scratching a finished panel means extra work, while a clogged glue bottle always seems to happen at the worst possible time.
These two Woodsmith reader-submitted tips use everyday items to solve both problems.
1. Protect Recessed Panels While Sanding
Frame-and-panel furniture often requires a little final sanding after assembly. The challenge is breaking the sharp edges of the surrounding stiles and rails without accidentally scratching the recessed panel.
Norm Mattson of Racine, Wisconsin, uses a drywall taping knife as a sanding shield.
He positions the broad metal blade against the recessed panel while sanding the adjoining frame. The taping knife creates a physical barrier between the sandpaper and panel, allowing him to soften the sharp edge of the stile or rail without accidentally sanding the panel itself.
The wide, thin blade also makes it easy to reposition the shield as he works around the assembly.
Woodsmith Tip: Make sure the face and edges of the taping knife are clean and free of dried joint compound, burrs, or other debris before placing it against a finished or finely sanded surface.
Shop tip submitted by Norm Mattson, Racine, Wisconsin.
2. Repurpose a Hand Sanitizer Bottle for Wood Glue
A clogged glue bottle can be particularly frustrating in the middle of a woodworking project. Dried glue collects around the dispensing opening, eventually making it difficult to squeeze out a clean, controlled bead.
Bill Wells of Olympia, Washington, found a simple alternative to his troublesome glue bottles: empty hand sanitizer bottles.
The caps on the bottles Bill uses have a small plastic nib inside the lid. When the cap is closed, the nib seals the dispensing opening. This helps prevent glue from drying inside the opening and plugging it between uses.
After thoroughly cleaning and drying an empty bottle, Bill fills it with glue and uses it as a convenient shop dispenser.
Woodsmith Tip: Make sure a repurposed bottle is thoroughly cleaned and completely dry before adding glue. Clearly label the container as WOOD GLUE so there's no possibility of confusing it with its original contents.
Shop tip submitted by Bill Wells, Olympia, Washington.
Simple Solutions for Sanding and Glue-Ups
These two woodworking tips address problems that can easily interrupt a project. A drywall taping knife provides a quick protective barrier when sanding around recessed panels, while a repurposed dispenser helps keep wood glue ready to flow when it's time for assembly.
Both solutions use inexpensive items that are easy to keep around the workshop.
