Spray-on Rubber Makes Push Sticks Grip Better

Like many woodworkers, I make my own wooden push sticks for the tablesaw, jointer, and router table. To give them a better grip on workpieces, and give me much better control, I coat the contact area with a flexible rubber material called PlastiDip, designed for metal tool handles. It comes in a number of colors and can be applied by dipping or spraying. I buy it in a spray can, which lets me use only what I need. After spraying, I remove the spray tip and soak it in lacquer thinner to keep it clog-free for the future.

I recommend masking off the sides of your sticks and pads with newspaper and painter’s tape when spraying, so those areas don’t drag on machine tables and fences.

—TOM ROSGA, Sandstone, Minn.

Illustrations by Dan Thornton
From Fine Woodworking issue #286

Fine Woodworking Recommended Products

Double Sided Tape

A thin woven core makes XFasten tape strong yet not too thick (0.008 in.), and helps it hold powerfully without being difficult to peel off.

Buy at Amazon

Veritas Micro-Adjust Wheel Marking Gauge

The adjuster runs through the beam from a small knob at the back end right to the cutting wheel, which moves in and out as you turn the knob. This arrangement works well but makes adjustments a two-handed operation, requiring a little more effort.

Buy at Lee Valley

Dividers

Incredibly useful for laying out, setting equal distances, and comparing measurements, these are an essential tool for any furniture maker.

Buy at Amazon