An Alternative Workbench Surface
Soft carpet scraps protect delicate projects from scratches.
Eighteen years ago I performed some gunsmithing on an old rifle. To prevent scratching or damaging the firearm, I covered my workbench with a remnant of short, plush carpeting. This worked so well that it has remained there permanently, for the following reasons:
- It prevents scratching or other surface damage on a project.
- Workpieces do not slide around as much.
- Small parts and screws stop where they drop, and are less likely to bounce off and disappear.
- Wooden surfaces and furniture are protected from scratches.
- Protruding fasteners, hinges, and latches sink into the pile and stabilize the parts or assemblies.
- Heavy objects are easily manipulated by sliding them on the carpeting.
- Cardboard-fabrication projects are made easier as the box cutter’s tip penetrates through the cardboard for a clean cut and remains sharp.
(One caveat: Never drill into the carpeting. It will ball up on your drill tip.)
—Keith Ojala, Hancock, Mich.
Edited and Illustrated by Charles Miller
From Fine Homebuilding #284
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