When you need an extra pair of hands
Most of us have tried to struggle through a job that would have been much easier with another pair of hands.
It might be feeding a long board through a saw, holding a wall cabinet in position while trying to fix it or moving an 8' x 4' sheet of plywood or MDF around the workshop.
The temptation is to make do, but supporting the work properly doesn't just make the job easier. It gives you better control and can make the operation safer too.
Support longer work when machining
Once boards or sheet material extend much beyond the bed of a machine, you need to think about what will support them as they pass through.
A portable roller stand is a quick and flexible solution. For machines regularly handling longer work, an outfeed table provides more continuous support and is recommended health and safety practice in commercial workshops.
You can make a permanent outfeed table or, where space is limited, use a folding or detachable version.
The important thing is to keep the work properly supported so you can concentrate on controlling the cut rather than catching the board as it leaves the machine.
An extra hand when fitting cabinets
Trying to hold a wall cabinet, shelf or sheet of plasterboard in exactly the right position while fixing it is difficult when you're working alone. An expandable support can take the weight for you.
Telescopic versions with one-handed pump adjustment are particularly useful because you can make small adjustments to the height while keeping your hands free to position and fix the work.
It's a simple way of turning an awkward two-person job into something much more manageable.
Lift and level from the floor
Sometimes the problem isn't holding something up, but getting underneath it.
A lifting jack can raise floor cabinets, workbenches and other heavy items a little at a time, allowing you to level or position them without trying to lift the full weight yourself.
Move heavy boards, rather than carry them
An 8' x 4' sheet of plywood, MDF or plasterboard isn't just heavy – its size makes it particularly awkward to carry.
A panel skate puts the weight onto wheels so you're guiding the board rather than carrying it. For anyone regularly moving sheet material around a workshop or site, that can make a considerable difference.
Why support the work?
Good work support isn't simply about making heavy jobs easier:
✓ It leaves you free to concentrate on the cut rather than carrying the weight.
✓ It helps keep material controlled for cleaner, more consistent cuts.
✓ It reduces the chance of boards binding or contributing to kickback during machining.
✓ It allows cabinets and other fittings to be held level while they're positioned and fixed.
✓ And, importantly, it can allow you to work safely and productively when another pair of hands isn't available.
Peter’s Tip
“It's very easy to fall into the habit of struggling along or making do, particularly when you're working on your own.
Some jobs genuinely are easier with two people, but before lifting, carrying or trying to balance something awkward, take a moment to think about how you can support it.
Plan the job, let the equipment take the weight and leave yourself free to concentrate on the work.”