Cookies not so good for sanding

[suds]

I was amazed to find that my first try at using my new set of Cookies from Rockler was a complete failure.  Had a 10"x10" board that needed sanding and found that with my 150 Rotex literally vibrated the Cookies from under the workpiece.  Used it in both modes and same results. 

 

[Bob Menefee]

I thought about getting them but just didn't know. Thanks for the infor. may not get them now.

 

[Frank Pellow]

That's disappointing.  [sad]

I bought some and had them delivered to friends in Seattle where I will be visiting in late May.  I guess that there is some chance that they will work for me, but it sounds like I will be lucky if they do. ???  Once I try them, I will report back in this thread.

 

[bruegf]

I've had better luck using them with the ETS and belt sanders than the Rotex.  Have also worked well with the router.

Fred

 

[Jesse Cloud]

I've had good results with the ETS and cookies.  Good for hand sanding, too.  Too bad about the Rotex.

 

[Administrator_JSVN]

I have a set and haven't used them yet.  But I usually use the clamping elements for sanding applications.  They work very well.

 

[RONWEN]

I seem to be in the minority but I haven't had good luck using the cookies with my Rotex -- they vibrate out from under most work pieces.  I much prefer using a router mat to keep the work piece in position.  I only apply the weight of the sander while sanding, that may be the difference where others have better luck with the cookies.

 

[John Stevens]

I have a set and haven't used them yet.  But I usually use the clamping elements for sanding applications.  They work very well.

Hi, Shane.  How do you use them with stock that's 3/4" and thinner?

Regards,

John

 

[JimRay]

I have a set and haven't used them yet.  But I usually use the clamping elements for sanding applications.  They work very well.

Hi, Shane.  How do you use them with stock that's 3/4" and thinner?

Regards,

John

I'd put a thin piece (or pieces) of stock under the workpiece that would elevate it enough to get the surface above the Clamping Element, but still allow the Clamping Elements to hold it firm. Haven't tried this but I see no reason for it not to work.

Just a thought.

Jim Ray

 

[RONWEN]

Hi, Shane.  How do you use them with stock that's 3/4" and thinner?
Regards,
John
[/quote]

I'd put a thin piece (or pieces) of stock under the workpiece that would elevate it enough to get the surface above the Clamping Element, but still allow the Clamping Elements to hold it firm. Haven't tried this but I see no reason for it not to work.
Just a thought.
Jim Ray
[/quote]

That is a good idea which gives me a thought -- since I'm not thrilled with the "cookies" as they are I may peel or slice the grippy rubber off of both sides of the cookie and then glue it to 1/8" or 1/4" ply discs to make handy thin spacers for the purpose you describe.  The cookies don't cost much so not a big deal to give it a try.

Actually I really like the router mat (also Rockler) for sanding -- the work piece stays put while using the Rotex.  The thin cookies & clamping elements may come in handy sometime though...

 

[peter halle]

A suggestion to try:

Why don't you make whatever shape "platforms" or disks, and attach some of the rubber strip that is on the bottom of the Festool guiderails?  You know, that stuff that doesn't slip?

Just a crazy thought.

Peter

 

[RONWEN]

In my case I have these unused cookies that I'll try to find a useful life for...

(I'll save a set for routing where I need bit clearance.)

Again, most people really like them for sanding but they didn't work well for me the several times that I tried them -- they would vibrate out from under the work piece.  I'm supposing it's either the action of the Rotex (which I use mostly) or the lack of sander weight or pressure on the workpiece.  As always recommended, I never press down on the sander (much) instead letting the sanding disk do the work.

 

[Administrator_JSVN]

I have a set and haven't used them yet.  But I usually use the clamping elements for sanding applications.  They work very well.

Hi, Shane.  How do you use them with stock that's 3/4" and thinner?

John, sorry I missed your question.  Jim provided a good answer.  You can use the clamping elements easily down to 3/4" material.  Anything thinner than that and you would need to put something under them or run the risk of sanding onto/into the tops of the clamping elements.  Still not a huge deal since they are solid plastic.

Alternatively you sand all areas except around the clamps, then spin it and finish up.  These things are quick and easy to operate. 

My youngest son really likes using them.  [big grin]

 

[suds]

I was trying to sand 3/4" material when I used the Cookies and ended up using the Clamping Elements.  Ended up sanding just a little bit of one of the Elements so next time I'll try using a little lift.