The sketch above shows the thickness-sander lathe attachment I made to sand dulcimer tops and sides. The design is similar to the sanders shown in Fine Woodworking #21, p. 50, but because the device uses the lathe’s motor, spindle and bed, it is much easier to make. By using the lathe’s variable-speed pulleys you can always find the perfect sanding speed. The sanding drum is simply a turned wooden cylinder spirally wrapped with abrasive cloth. The plywood and hardwood base bolts to the lathe bed and adjusts with a simple wedge mechanism.

Charles R. Adams, Westmoreland, N.H.

Fine Woodworking Magazine, December 1982 No. 37

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