Cyclone dust collectors are a wonderful improvement over their single-stage counterparts. Many woodworkers like to line the collection drum with a plastic bag, as it is easier to empty a bag than the heavy drum. But some cyclones aren’t designed for bags, and will suck them upward, rendering them useless. There’s a simple solution. Just cut out a circular piece of heavy rubber matting and toss it into the bottom of the bag. The weight of the mat will hold down the bag. After dumping the sawdust into the compost bin, I retrieve the disk and plop it back into the bag. I purchased the rubber mat at a local hardware store that sells scraps of bulk materials. Another source is those rubber squares sold as floor covering for gyms and garages. Look for the rubber type, not foam, around 1⁄2 in. thick.

—Willie Sandry, Camas, Wash.

—Drawings by Dan Thornton

Fine Woodworking Recommended Products

Stanley Powerlock 16-ft. tape measure

With its smooth lock, tough case, compact size, and excellent accuracy, this Stanley tape is perfect for workshop use.

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Ridgid EB4424 Oscillating Spindle/Belt Sander

With five spindles sized from 1/2 in. to 2 in. and a 4 X 24-in. belt, this sander has become a staple in many a shop Fine Woodworking visits.

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Rockler Deluxe Panel Clamp

These clamps can handle glue-ups between 10 in. and 36 in. wide, and boards up to 3 in. thick. Sliding feet attach to the lower bars with magnets, letting you position them quickly for stability on any surface. The spring-loaded jaws adjust easily, dropping into notches along the bars. And the powerful clamp handles clear the benchtop.

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