Cutting Half LapsBase frame attachedBase Frame Attached

Here at 2Sand.com our Downdraft Sanding Center build finally moves forward again! Things have been very busy and the build was put on hold for a bit, but since I think Santa will be bringing us some cool new casters for Christmas, I wanted to make sure that the carcase was ready by adding the base frame for the wheels.

Continuing with our theme of inexpensive construction, the frame was made from "two-by" stock, jointed and ripped to 1 1/2" square stock. Since we know that the downdraft table top will overhang the smaller cabinet body, I wanted to insure that the wheels be set beyond the cabinet front and back to add stability.

So two of the frame members are 24" long to extend a few inches front and back. The other two are 32" so that the 

sides and back of the base are positioned on top of the base frame members for maximum support. These dimensions allow for the fame to be half-lapped together. Half Laps are simple but very sturdy joints that will take the stress of rolling the cart around and working on the top. The ends of the longer parts get half-lapped and the shorter parts are lapped 3" in from each edge or 18" on center.

Base Frame Assembled

A little glue and a few screws and the base frame is assembled. Quick and easy! Now simply set the cabinet upside down on the floor, center the base frame over the cabinet bottom, then drill and screw it them together.

While we wait for Santa to come through with the casters, I will make the cabinet doors and hinge them to the unit. We could begin building the torsion box for the sanding table, but working with the box while it is still fairly light will make these other tasks much easier. Once the cabinet is complete and mobile, building the top in place will be easier. (I am going to attempt to use my dust collector to actually "vacuum veneer" the top during assembly!) So tune in to the next blog for the doors and hinges!

Base Frame Attached

I certainly invite you to add your thoughts or send along ideas that have worked well for you. Please feel free to add your comments here on the blog, on our Facebook page, or via Twitter. Let us know what you think! -2Sand.com