DIY mini table vise
Creating a DIY mini table vise can be a useful project for various tasks. Here's a simple guide on how to make your own mini table vise using basic materials. Adjust the dimensions and materials based on your specific needs.
Materials:
- Wooden block (about 3 inches by 3 inches)
- Wooden dowel (about 1 inch in diameter)
- Wood screws
- Flat metal bar or strip
- Wing nut and bolt
- Sandpaper
- Wood glue
- Saw
- Drill and drill bits
Steps:
Prepare the Wooden Block:
- Sand the wooden block to ensure a smooth finish.
- If needed, cut the block to your desired size using a saw.
Drill Holes for Wooden Dowel:
- Drill a hole through the center of the wooden block that is slightly larger than the diameter of the wooden dowel.
- The hole should be drilled completely through the block.
Cut and Prepare Wooden Dowel:
- Cut the wooden dowel to your desired length (this will be the movable jaw of the vise).
- Sand the edges for a smooth finish.
Attach Wooden Dowel to Block:
- Insert the wooden dowel through the hole in the wooden block.
- Apply wood glue to the hole before inserting the dowel for added strength.
- Allow the glue to dry completely.
Prepare the Metal Bar:
- Cut the flat metal bar to the desired length for the fixed jaw of the vise.
- Drill holes at both ends of the metal bar for attaching it to the table.
Attach Metal Bar to Table:
- Securely attach the metal bar to the edge of a table or workbench using screws.
- Ensure that the bar is aligned properly, and it should serve as the fixed jaw of the vise.
Attach Wooden Block to Metal Bar:
- Attach the wooden block with the attached dowel to the metal bar.
- Use a wing nut and bolt to secure the wooden block to the metal bar.
- This allows you to adjust the position of the movable jaw.
Test Your Mini Table Vise:
- Tighten the wing nut to bring the wooden dowel (movable jaw) close to the metal bar (fixed jaw).
- Place an object between the jaws and tighten the vise to hold the object securely.
Adjust and Improve:
- Fine-tune the vise by adjusting the wing nut for the desired clamping pressure.
- If necessary, sand any rough edges for a smoother operation.
Enjoy Your DIY Mini Table Vise:
- Your mini table vise is ready to use for various small-scale clamping tasks.