Woodworker's Journal 2010-34-1, страница 25

Workshop Annoyances

PROBLEM: Every time you need to tighten a chuck or change a blade, you waste time trying to find the right wrench. SOLUTION: Get a dedicated wrench/ screwdriver for common adjustments and keep it at the tool at all times. For steel and iron tools, stick a small rare-earth magnet to the machine's base or the side of the drill press head, then simply "stick" the wrench, chuck key or other tool to it when it's not in use. For non-ferrous-metal machines or tools, you can use PSA-backed hook-and-loop fastener dots to attach the tool directly to the machine. Just make sure to position the magnet/fastener so that if the tool accidentally falls off, it won't interfere with operating the machine.

PROBLEM: You don't have or can't find oft-used tools and supplies when you need them.

SOLUTION: One way to keep tools handy is to keep different groups of them in inexpensive portable caddies like you can buy in the housewares department of a hardware or variety store. Molded plastic caddies with built-in handles are made for organizing and storing cleaning supplies and other household goods. But they're equally as useful for workshop items. So, for example, when you need your marking and layout tools (calipers, 6" rule, dividers, tape measure, etc.) you simply grab your "layout tool" caddy and take it right to the benchtop or worktable.

Woodworker's Journal Ferbruary 2010 25

You'll have all the tools you need and are less likely to lose tools, as each goes back into the caddy when you're done. When doing household repairs or working away from the woodshop, it's particularly great to have all the stuff you need at hand, so you don't have to keep running back to the shop for things you've forgotten. Tool caddies are also terrific for organizing screws and fasteners, glues and applicators and other shop supplies. Larger caddies or trays can be just the ticket for keeping small parts together, especially when moving them around the shop for different machining operations.

Fractional Calculator

PROBLEM: You can't find a sharp pencil when you need it to save your life. SOLUTION: Attach the pencil to a small retractable reel badge or key holder: the kind used to hold security and event passes (available at office supply stores and online at amazon.com). Get one with a belt clip that you can attach to your shirt or work apron (slipping a small rubber band over the shank of the pencil helps keep it in the holder's plastic loop). When you need to write a note or mark a part, just pull the pencil down and use it — the pencil always stays with you, since you can't set it down. Alternatively, buy a

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