Secure thin pieces for a trip through the planer or drum sander
My granddaughter and I make lots of scrollsawn puzzles. To aid in thinning the frame surrounding the puzzle, I came up with a simple carrier board for safely sending it through the planer or sander.
Make the carrier base from 3⁄4 " MDF as long and wide as you need (mine measures 13×34"). Edge the base with 1⁄4 ×1⁄2 " hardwood or MDF strips that serve as workpiece stops. In the base drill a grid of 1⁄4 " holes as closely spaced as your project(s) require. Apply a clear glossy finish to the base to make it easier to release any workpieces you secure with double-faced tape. After applying the tape, I "pin" the workpiece in place using 1⁄4 " wood wheel axle pegs cut to just under 3⁄4 " long. Using this carrier I've never had a piece come loose in the planer or sander.
—Louis Goaziou, Taylor, Ariz.