How to Use a Flap Sander

A flap sander is equipped with flexible brushes for sanding wooden items. The flexibility aids in sanding items with curves and ornate table and chair legs to reach into grooves. Sanding raw wood on a flap sander removes small fibers that would otherwise be noticeable after applying stain or primer to your project. Using this tool correctly saves time when you are sanding a project between coats of sealant or stain.

2 arbor wrenches
Safety glasses
Ear plugs
Dust mask
Wood project

Instructions

- 1
  Unplug the flap sander's power cord from the electrical receptacle.
- 2
  Align the hole in the middle of the flap sander with the arbor. Slide the flap sander onto the arbor, and push it towards the engine in the middle of the tool. The arbor is the metal horizontal rod that holds attachments.
- 3
  Slide a flat metal flange on the arbor end. Slide an arbor spacer and nut on the end of the arbor.
- 4
  Place an arbor wrench on the arbor near the engine. Place a second arbor wrench on the arbor nut. Turn the arbor nut counterclockwise to tighten it.
- 5
  Plug the flap sander power cord into an electrical receptacle. Put on safety glasses, ear plugs and a dust mask.
- 6
  Press the "On" button on the front of the flap sander under the motor. Let the motor run for a minute or two until it is at full speed.
- 7
  Hold your wooden project with one hand underneath for support on the end closest to you. Make smooth passes from left to right under the flap sander. Turn your work piece to thoroughly sand all surfaces.

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