How to Use a Portable Belt Sander

A portable belt sander is a helpful power tool for woodworking and home improvement. It speeds up the sanding phase of projects including refinishing furniture, painting walls and cabinets, or building a deck. Belt sanders can be dangerous if not used properly. A lot of sawdust is created by the rapidly moving sandpaper belt. This can be quite messy if the dust bag isn't securely locked in place.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Sandpaper roll
• Safety goggles
• Dust mask

1. Wear safety goggles and a dust mask at all times when using a portable belt sander. The fine dust that's generated can cause breathing problems when inhaled.

2. Connect the dust bag to the belt sander.

3. Load a roll of sandpaper into the belt sander. For most sanding jobs, start with a medium-grain sandpaper and switch to a fine grain to finish the job.

4. Align the sandpaper belt and lock it into place.

5. Clamp down any small items to be sanded so they can't move around while you work.

6. Turn on the power and set the sander's belt onto the item. Move the portable belt sander along with the grain and keep it moving forward to produce an even surface. Apply more pressure to the sander if you need to push deep into the wood or strip off a stubborn layer of varnish or paint. Some belt sanders have a locking power button so you can work for an extended time without having to hold your hand on the button.

7. Turn off the power and check the surface of your sanded item. If you find a rough spot, smooth it out with the belt sander. Small spots can be touched up by hand with a sheet of fine-grain sandpaper.

Tips & Warnings

• Move the portable belt sander straight off when you reach the end of the wood. Pressing down will cause it to round off the edges.