dwminnich

So, I'm late to this thread, since I just found the site, but hopefully this will be useful to someone... Assuming you can find bolts with the right pitch/thread count, you can easily make your own knobs for this, and any other shop use. I got in the habit of doing this a couple years ago for all my shop jigs. Basically, create whatever shape you like best for the knob (could be a simple circle or something with some "lugs" for your fingers to latch onto). Personally, I draw a circle the size I want on a piece of 1/2" baltic birch ply, then drill holes around the perimeter at 0, 90, 180, and 270 degrees. Then, to the bandsaw/scrollsaw and cut out the rest of the perimeter line. A little sanding or a roundover on the router table will clean up all the sharp edges. Drill an appropriately-sized recess in the center of the circle (careful... don't drill through the piece!) and epoxy the bolt head into the hole. Once the epoxy cures, I've never had any problem with the knob failing, and I use these for clamping fixtures all the time. Easy, cheap, and adds a little character to the piece. Enjoy! --dave