Chris at Flair Woodworking mentioned in a post today that there were talking about everyone contributing a simple tool prize, the best tool would win all of the contributed prizes. I jokingly groused that now I had to make a stool and a tool to play along. Chris said I could combine them, and that got me thinking…
I remembered seeing an article in American Woodworker about building a plywood shop stool that doubled as a work support.
Plywood Shop Stool with an adjustable work support
Surely I could do better than that. What about a combination spindle sander and stool? That would be sooo handy in small shops that don’t have room for another tool like mine. It would be a useful tool and a handy shop accessory. With a little design work I think I could incorporate storage for the extra sanding sleeves. It might be a good idea to have a safety lock out on the power switch, for all the obvious reasons…
Oscillating Spindle Sander Stool
But then I had a real brainstorm. What about a stool that could serve as both a work holding device and a stool, a cross between a Black and Decker Workmate and a Peter Follansbee Jointed Stool? The top could be split and have a series of dog holes for clamping parts. When you want to sit on it, just retract the dogs and crank the seat halves closed. Whatcha think?
I should probably patent this before someone snaps it up.
My winning entry — who’s with me?
McGlynn on Making 
I think you’ll have plenty ;of time to get a patent attorney Joe.
Hey, they told Orval and Wilbur their idea would never fly too!
🙂
Thats nice looking
Great thinking Joe! Love the idea of a 17th century workmate 🙂 I’m hopeful to incorporate tools into my design but was thinking a bottle opener, yours is much more ambitious! Can’t wait to see what everyone ends up with!
Ummm .. so no else got nervous that one might sit on a bench dog or get a really bad butt pinch from the vice?? 😉
I think once you get past the bidet sander you’re pretty safe.
Joe,
These are hilarious!
Chris