Looking to create a stylish and functional tape dispenser? This woodworking project was designed and built by Newton Makesl. The project is perfect for anyone looking to add a touch of elegance to their workspace while enjoying the satisfaction of crafting something with their own hands.
Materials Needed:
- Walnut slab
- Wood glue (high glue recommended)
- Drum sander
- Jigsaw
- Chisels
- Lathe
- Serated blade (from a plastic tape dispenser)
- Lacquer finish
- Wood dowel
- Spray adhesive (optional for template)
Tools Required:
- Drill
- Scroll saw
- Jig for making channels
- Measuring tools (ruler, tape measure)
- Pencil
- Sharp chisel
- Clamps
- Safety glasses
Step 1: Prepare the Walnut Slab
The first step is to select a walnut slab with good grain. Billy emphasizes not using the most figured grain for this project, as it’s just a tape dispenser. After marking out a suitable area, he cuts a piece from the slab using a jigsaw.
Step 2: Create the Core and Caps
The design consists of three pieces: a core and two caps. Billy cuts the slab down to the necessary thickness for the center and then rips it down the middle. One part becomes the core, while the other will be shaped into caps.
Step 3: Sanding and Preparing for Assembly
Using a drum sander, Billy smooths out the pieces to avoid tear-out, especially since walnut can be tricky. He wraps the pieces with blue painter’s tape to help mitigate tear-out during cuts.
Step 4: Designing with Fusion 360
Billy heads to his computer to design a mockup of the tape dispenser using Fusion 360. This step helps him visualize the parts and dimensions before moving forward with the physical assembly.
Step 5: Creating a Channel for the Caps
A jig is made to assist in creating a channel on the inside faces of both caps. This ensures accurate drilling and chiseling for the dowels that will hold the tape.
Step 6: Assembly of the Tape Dispenser
Billy cuts away the unnecessary parts from the center piece before gluing all parts together using high glue, which is dark and helps to conceal seams. After everything is glued, it’s time to move on to the dowel.
Step 7: Turning a Wood Circle
To allow the tape to spin freely, a wooden circle is turned on the lathe. Billy practices his turning skills, emphasizing that improvement comes with practice.
Step 8: Attaching the Tape Blade
For cutting the tape, a serrated blade is repurposed from a plastic tape dispenser. Billy screws it onto his wooden tape dispenser, ensuring functionality.
Step 9: Finishing Touches
Finally, a coat of lacquer is applied to enhance the beauty of the walnut. Billy reminds viewers that utility and beauty can coexist in woodworking projects.
This tape dispenser not only serves a practical purpose but also adds a touch of elegance to any workspace. A huge thank you to Newton Makes for sharing this project. Now, it’s time to get into the shop and build something awesome! You can get the plans here.