Swing-Arm Plywood Lift: Load Sheet Goods with Less Effort
Handling a full sheet of plywood can be one of the more awkward jobs in the workshop. Getting a heavy 4' × 8' panel onto a cutting table is especially challenging when you're working alone.
This simple swing-arm plywood lift makes the job easier by providing a convenient way to raise and position sheet goods on a cutting table.
The lift is designed as an add-on for our knock-down plywood cutting grid, which clamps to a pair of sawhorses to create a sturdy work surface for breaking down large panels.
Build a Simple Swing-Arm Plywood Lift
The lift consists of two plywood arms connected by a double-layer plywood stretcher.
Each arm has a notch cut into one end to support the edge of a plywood sheet. The notches are easy to make with a jigsaw.
The arms attach to the cutting table with bolts, washers, and lock nuts. These fasteners act as pivots, allowing the lift to swing up and down.
How to Load Plywood onto the Cutting Table
Using the lift is straightforward.
Start with the swing arms lowered alongside the table. Raise one edge of the plywood sheet just high enough to rest it securely in the notches.
Then swing the arms upward to bring the panel onto the cutting table. Once the sheet is supported, pull it back into position for cutting.
The lift reduces the amount of awkward lifting required and makes positioning large panels more manageable.
Shop Tip: Make sure the cutting table is stable and the pivot hardware is securely installed before using the lift. Keep your hands clear of the pivot points, and use help for panels that are too heavy or awkward to control safely.
It's a simple addition that makes an already useful plywood cutting table even more convenient.
Knock-Down Plywood Cutting Grid
Breaking down full sheets of plywood is easier when you have the right support. This knock-down cutting grid clamps to a pair of sawhorses to create a sturdy, open work surface for making accurate cuts with a circular saw.
Best of all, it disassembles for compact storage when the job is done.
BUILD THE PLYWOOD CUTTING GRID → Build a Better Work Surface for Cutting Plywood
