DIY Network

Bandsaw Maintenance and Viewer Jig: Rotary Tool From "DIY Tools & Techniques" episode DIT-213

	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C

A rotary tool is one of the handiest tools in the shop. It can help make basic repairs and sharpen blades. Host David Thiel explains how to use this tool to create decorative detail in wood.

A cordless rotary tool (figure A) can be bulky and top-heavy. Its heaviness makes it difficult to create detail. The preferred unit is one that has a thin pen on the end (figure B) and a flexible shaft that attaches to the motor.

The rotary tool has various tips (figure C) that can be used to create different effects. Ball engraving tips are used for making thin lines or curly-cue shapes. With a flat cylinder engraving tip, you can take a quick pass at a flat level. You can also do detailed engraving with this tip. A sanding drum tip is used for taking off pieces in a wide swath. A cone-shaped sanding tip can be used to widen a line.

Note: Sanding tips will leave coarse details.

To put a tip on the tool, slide it into the collet. Push down the shaft lock (silver button), and then turn the collet until it clicks into place. Be sure to tighten everything up. You may want to test each tip on the back of the wood before beginning your project, to make sure you like the look.

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