Looking for a practical woodworking project that enhances your shop’s functionality? This planer cart was built and designed by Salty Woodworking, and it’s perfect for anyone looking to upgrade their workspace.
Materials and Tools Needed
- 3/4-inch Birch Plywood
- 2-inch Caster Wheels
- Tongue Oil
- Wood Glue
- 18 Gauge Brad Nails
- Pocket Screws
- Drawer Pulls
- Scrap Wood for Drawers
Step 1: Breaking Down the Old Cart
The first step is to strip everything off the old cart. The original cart served its purpose but had become cluttered. With a new Powermatic 54A planer acquired for $600, it was time for a change. Start by breaking down the old cart and reusing as much of the plywood as possible.
Step 2: Making the Top of the Cart
Use leftover scraps to create the top of the planer cart. Glue strips of wood together to form a solid surface. While the top dries, you can work on the carcass of the cart.
Step 3: Building the Carcass
Cut all the pieces for the cart’s carcass to size. Use pocket screws to assemble the sides and back. If you’re short on space, adding casters can make the cart more mobile.
Step 4: Attaching the Top
After the top has dried, square it up and add chamfers to the edges. Position it on the carcass, ensuring there’s a one-inch overhang on all sides. Drill oversized holes for the screws to allow for wood movement.
Step 5: Creating Drawer Slides
This cart will feature four drawers. Instead of traditional hardware, create your own wood drawer slides for a cleaner look. Use strips on the sides of the cart, and make the bottom of the drawer oversized to fit into the slots.
Step 6: Making the Drawers
Utilize as much scrap plywood as possible to construct the drawers. Measure and cut pieces for the drawer boxes, then assemble them using pocket screws.
Step 7: Attaching Drawer Faces
Cut plywood to fit as drawer faces, then use a jig to drill holes for the pulls. To ensure even spacing between the drawer faces, use playing cards as spacers.
Step 8: Finishing Touches
Once all components are assembled, apply tongue oil to the entire cart for protection. For the drawers, add paste wax on the undersides to ensure smooth sliding.
Step 9: Completion
With everything in place, your planer cart is complete! This project not only enhances your workspace but also provides a practical solution to keep your tools organized. If you enjoyed this project and want to see more like it, consider subscribing to the channel.
