Tricking out your DF Layout Mat

Here's how to make your layout mat even more functional and handy dandy.

Cut a piece of plywood, melamine, or particle board 26 1/8" x 26 1/8".

Using a straight edge, find the center of the board by putting the edge corner to corner and drawing a line.

Drill a hole at the center for a "T" nut. This one takes 3/8" threaded rod.

Cut out the center of the layout mat with an Exacto knife or circular punch. We used a circular punch for a nice clean hole.

Attach the Layout mat to the board with double sided sticky tape. Carpet tape works great, but use the plastic tape and not the cloth tape (cloth is too thick). Don't go crazy with the tape - the amount shown here is plenty. You can also use adhesive spray, but it is more messy and less forgiving.

Oooooh, now the tricky part! Stick the mat down with the hole centered and the edges parallel.

Now run, don't walk, down to the hardware store and get some threaded rod. Make yourself a few crossbars out of some wood. We suggest you make a few different sizes of crossbar so you don't have excessive crossbar hanging over the side when you're trying to set up a small drum. See the blue knob on top? That's a quick release knob from Rockler Hardware. Click here for information. They slide down the threaded rod, then lock into place when pressure is applied. They are a huge timesaver for jigs and fixtures. Finish off the setup table by mounting a lazy susan to the bottom.

Now tell the truth, does anyone make your drumbuilding life easier than Drum Foundry?

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