A few small improvements can make your woodworking tools easier to use and your shop more organized. Removable labels help you remember tool settings, a magnetic block makes a convenient cutting stop, and a simple hose adapter can improve your sander's dust collection.
In this collection of Woodsmith Quick Tips, four readers share practical ideas for keeping track of tool setups, making repeatable band saw cuts, connecting a sander to a shop vacuum, and organizing small parts during tool maintenance.
1. Label Tool Settings with Dry-Erase Tape
When you use several tools throughout a project, it's easy to forget which accessories or settings are currently in place. You might need to check the brad length loaded in a nailer or look closely at a sanding disc to figure out its grit.
Dennis Volz of Des Moines, Iowa, uses dry-erase tape and markers to make this information visible at a glance.
He applies a small piece of tape to a convenient spot on the tool, then writes down the information he wants to remember. For example, he labels his brad nailer with the length of brad currently loaded and his sander with the grit of sandpaper installed.
When he changes the brads or sanding disc, he simply updates the label.
It's an easy way to keep track of tool setups without relying on memory.
Woodsmith Tip: Place the tape where it won't interfere with controls, moving parts, or ventilation openings. Update the label whenever you change the tool's setup.
Shop tip submitted by Dennis Volz, Des Moines, Iowa.
2. Use a Switchable Magnet as a Band Saw Stop Block
A stop block is useful when cutting multiple workpieces to the same length. But a conventional clamped stop can take time to reposition when you need to change dimensions.
Roger Rayburn of Colorado Springs, Colorado, uses a switchable magnetic block as a convenient stop on his band saw's metal table.
With the magnet engaged, the block stays in position. When Roger needs to change the cutting length, he turns the switch to release the magnet, moves the block, and switches it back on.
The magnetic block is also easy to store. When he's finished, he keeps it underneath the table so it's available for the next setup.
Woodsmith Tip: Make sure the magnet holds securely on your saw's table and that the stop doesn't interfere with the blade or workpiece. For through-cuts, avoid trapping an offcut between the blade and a stop. Position the stop so the workpiece has clearance as the cut is completed.
Shop tip submitted by Roger Rayburn, Colorado Springs, Colorado.
3. Connect a Random Orbit Sander to a Shop Vacuum
Many random orbit sanders include a small dust bag or filter, but connecting the sander to a shop vacuum can provide another way to collect dust at the source.
Charles Mak of Calgary, Alberta, made a simple adapter for his sander using a reducer, a coupling, and a few hose clamps.
The fittings allow him to connect his shop vacuum hose to the sander in place of its original filter.
The result is a convenient dust-collection connection made from readily available components.
Woodsmith Tip: Choose fittings that match your sander's dust port and vacuum hose, and secure them without damaging the tool. Use a suitable dust filter in the vacuum, and follow the sander manufacturer's recommendations for dust extraction. Wear appropriate respiratory protection when sanding.
Shop tip submitted by Charles Mak, Calgary, Alberta.
4. Organize Small Tool Parts with Folded Paper
Taking apart a tool for cleaning or maintenance can leave you with a collection of small screws, washers, and other components. Keeping them organized makes reassembly much easier.
Howard E. Moody of Upper Jay, New York, uses an ordinary sheet of paper as a simple parts keeper.
He folds the paper into an accordion, creating a series of small channels. As he disassembles a tool, he places the parts into the folds in order.
The folds help keep the components separated and provide a convenient place for them to dry after cleaning.
When it's time to reassemble the tool, Howard can work through the parts in the reverse order.
Woodsmith Tip: Use a clean, stable surface for the folded paper. If the parts have been cleaned with oil or solvent, make sure the paper is compatible with the cleaner and allow the parts to dry according to the product's instructions. For complicated assemblies, take a few photos before disassembly as an additional reference.
Shop tip submitted by Howard E. Moody, Upper Jay, New York.
Small Improvements for a More Organized Woodshop
These four reader-submitted tips show how simple accessories can make everyday shop tasks easier. Dry-erase tape keeps tool settings visible, a switchable magnet provides an adjustable band saw stop, a few fittings connect a sander to a shop vacuum, and folded paper keeps small parts organized during maintenance.
They're inexpensive ideas that can save time and frustration the next time you're setting up a tool, cutting parts, sanding, or cleaning shop equipment.
