How to Make a Sanding Table

Woodworking projects are for the most part extremely rewarding. Sanding the project can be a different thing altogether especially when it is difficult to reach certain areas. This adjustable height sanding table will aid in reaching difficult areas and heights.

Things You'll Need

• 12 2 by 4s by 8 foot long
• 1 sheet of ½-inch plywood 4 foot by 8 foot
• ½ lb. of 8p nails
• ½ lb .of 16p nails
• Four square neck bolts 3/8 by 5 inches long with nuts and washers
• ½-inch drill bit
• Drill motor
• Power saw
• Safety glasses
• Tape measure
• Pencil
• Square
• Chalk line
• Pliers

Instructions

1. Measure four of the 2 by 4s into two pieces of 45 inches in length, square and cut. You should have eight pieces at 45 inches. Lay out two of the 8 foot 2 by 4s 31/2 inches from each end, mark and square a line. From this line perform a layout with 16-inch centers for each of the eight 45-inch cut pieces. Line all the framing material up on the floor and nail together. Nail with the 16p nails through the longer pieces into the smaller. The frame should look like a mini framed wall with four 31/2 inch exposed ears on each end.

2. Mark the plywood to a length of 91 inches. Use the pencil to identify the mark and pop a line with the chalk line. Cut the line with the power saw. Lay the plywood on top of the wood frame and nail into place with the 8p nails. Be sure to keep the ears exposed, only cover the main frame.

3. Measure and cut two of the 8 foot 2 by 4s in half, exactly 48 inches in length. These four pieces are the table legs. Mark a line directly in the center of the 3½-inch side at each end and pop a line with the chalk box. Using your tape measure layout the 2 by 4 down the line at every 4 inches. Make a mark with the pencil and drill out the holes using the ½-inch drill bit and drill. You should have approximately 10 holes on each of the four 2 by 4s.

4. Stand the plywood sanding frame on its side, so the side of the ears are facing up. One side at a time. Mark the very center of the area using the square. Align the square from one corner to the other and mark a line, do the same to the opposite corners. X marks the spot.

5. Drill the hole again with the ½-inch drill bit and drill. Take two of the 48-inch legs and push the square neck bolt through the center hole. Attach to the table with the washer and nut. Tighten the nut with pliers. The square neck of the round end of the bolt should embed itself into the table leg. Flip the entire assembly over and repeat.

6. Adjust the height, when needed, in the same manner as you assembled the legs, by flipping the table on its side and adjusting the position of the table legs. You now have an adjustable height sanding table for all of your projects.

Tips & Warnings

• Always wear safety glasses when nailing or cutting wood.

• Follow all saw manufacturers safety tips and advice whenever using a power saw.