Master carpenter Mike Belzowski demonstrates his efficient method for making batches of different-grit sanding blocks out of scraps of MDF and sheets of sandpaper he has laying around the shop.

Here’s how he does it:

Mike Belzowski: Instead of just wrapping a piece of sandpaper around a block, I’ll glue pieces right to one surface of the block. I make simple jigs into which I lay pre-cut blocks. I divide a sheet of sandpaper into quarters so it fits the blocks perfectly. Then I roll on an even coat of glue. Once I’ve applied the glue, I have another jig for stacking several layers of blocks and sandpaper. Once I have a few layers, I top the stack of blocks with a scrap of plywood and apply a set of clamps for about 10-15 minutes. After that, I cut them apart with a utility knife and stack them with the grit facing down to dry overnight. I also write numbers on the back of each block so I know what grit each one is.

Chuck Miller: Great tip, Mike. Thanks for showing that to us.

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