How to Use an Edge Sander

Summary: The edge sander is a tabletop power tool used to fine-tune the sanding on a woodworking project that has already gone through the drum sander. Think of the edge sander as the fine-tipped marker which fills in the spots you missed with the broad nib marker. In other words, think detail work and micro-sanding for those precision corners to make sure that bookshelf fits together properly or those drawers slide in and out just right.

In this free video carpentry lesson, our popular wookworking expert Jon Olson demonstrates the proper use and maintenance of an edge sander. He includes general safety tips for the work area and yourself, as well as precautions specific to the use of the edge sander. You will also learn how to install a new belt and adjust the height of the sander to meet your needs. Jon discusses the types of projects that require the edge sander. He also demonstrates how to test and clean an edge sander, as well as how to keep it in good working order.