This project was built and designed by Caleb from YouCanMakeThisToo. It combines two shop essentials—a planer stand and an air filtration system—into one compact, mobile unit.
Designed to improve air quality while maximizing workspace efficiency, this project shows how repurposed materials and thoughtful design can make a big impact. It’s a great solution for woodworkers who want cleaner air, better mobility, and a smarter use of floor space.
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A Dual-Purpose Workshop Upgrade
The goal of this project is simple: improve dust control and make the planer easier to access. Rather than building two separate pieces, Caleb combines them into a single cart that rolls around the shop as needed.
Using scrap plywood, a salvaged blower motor, and a layered filter system, he creates a functional piece that not only supports a planer but actively improves the working environment.
Materials and Tools
While the exact dimensions vary, the core materials include plywood for the structure, a blower motor for airflow, and multiple layers of filters. Caleb focuses on affordability by using offcuts and reusing old hardware wherever possible.
Tools for the build include a table saw, jigsaw, drill, and clamps. He also uses pocket holes for fast and reliable joinery, making the project accessible even without a full workshop of advanced tools.
Building the Frame
The structure starts as a simple box made from plywood. Pocket hole joinery keeps the panels strong and square, and a right-angle fence helps align the corners during glue-up and clamping.
This base serves as the housing for the blower motor and filter system. Caleb emphasizes the importance of keeping the structure rigid so that the cart holds its shape over time, especially when rolling the planer across the shop floor.
Creating the Airflow System
A key part of this build is the exhaust cutout for the blower motor. After carefully marking the shape on the plywood, Caleb cuts it out using a jigsaw. This allows the blower to pull in air through the filters and push it out through the back or side of the cart.
The blower is secured inside its own frame, which is installed into the cart. Keeping this frame tight ensures minimal vibration and stable airflow during operation. Once installed, the motor becomes the driving force behind the air filtration.
Building the Filter Housing
Dust control is at the heart of this design, and Caleb uses a multi-stage filter system to tackle both large and fine particles. First, a deep MERV 13 filter is used for its ability to capture fine airborne dust without choking the airflow.
A pre-filter is added in front to catch larger particles, which extends the life of the MERV 13 unit. To protect both filters and simplify cleaning, an outer disposable layer catches surface dust and can be swapped out as needed.
This setup helps keep the workspace healthier, especially when using tools like the planer, which create a high volume of chips and fine dust.
Mounting the Planer and Adding Mobility
Once the filtration system is in place, Caleb adds a flat top to the cart, which acts as the new home for his planer. The added height brings the tool to a more ergonomic working level while freeing up other surfaces in the shop.
Casters are installed on the bottom for easy mobility. Instead of purchasing expensive wheels, Caleb repurposes casters from an old dolly—a budget-friendly move that still delivers smooth rolling performance.
Wiring and Electrical Safety
Wiring the blower motor is one of the more technical parts of the project. Caleb follows the manufacturer’s diagram carefully to ensure correct operation and avoid overloading the circuit.
The electrical work allows the blower and planer to operate simultaneously. It’s a clean install that keeps cords out of the way and adds an on/off switch to control airflow as needed.
Testing the System
After everything is assembled, the air cleaner is put to the test. Caleb notes that it runs surprisingly quiet, a bonus for any shared or small workspace.
The filters visibly pull in fine dust, and airflow is strong and steady. It’s a compact system that quietly makes a big difference—especially during sanding or planing sessions.
Smart Design Tweaks
Unlike many shop air cleaners that draw air in from one side and exhaust from the other, Caleb’s design works with the natural flow pattern of the blower motor. This reduces turbulence and improves efficiency, keeping the workshop cleaner without wasting energy.
He also shares lessons learned along the way, including how to plan airflow direction and what type of filter stack works best for daily use.
A Practical and Creative Shop Upgrade
This project shows how a small idea—using a leftover blower motor—can evolve into a smart, multifunctional build. The air cleaner and planer cart saves space, cleans the air, and keeps the workshop organized.
For woodworkers looking to reduce dust and reclaim shop space, this is a great project to tackle over a weekend. It’s a perfect example of how form, function, and creativity come together in a practical build.
Please support Caleb by visiting his website: https://www.ycmt2.com/.