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Holy Cow: Quirky's Moldable Sandpaper

By Rain Noe - January 17, 2013

in Hand Tools

Call me cheap, but I hate the design of the rubber sanding block, mostly because I can't stand that one-third of each sandpaper strip is wasted in the ends that you have to tuck into the spikes. I save the little perforated, untouched bits but never get around to using them.

A product currently under consideration at Quirky looks to replace the sanding block—and the sandpaper—entirely. Sandables are essentially moldable, elastic, claylike objects embedded with grit.

"The sanders are pre-shaped for maximum utility," writes the site, "but 3 minutes in the microwave allows each to be molded to the desired shape, whether you're attaching a stick for added reach, or fitting a tight corner." After sanding formaldehyde-laminated plywood I probably wouldn't be willing to stick these in the same nuke I eat out of, but it looks like you can hit 'em with a heat gun too.

One thing I'd need to see before I commit are what grits they come in. Quirky mentions they'll have "three distinct grits," and while I could probably get away with 80, 120 and 220, I want to see which they've chosen as the essentials. I'd also like to hear how long they last for, or if you can blow the dust off of them with a compressor to keep them going indefinitely. And secondly, can they retain a flat shape, or do they start to deform?

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Piotr

11 years ago

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and what about heat generated by friction while sanding?
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Rachel Sellers

8 years ago

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How AWESOME!! I can already think of SO MANY projects I am currently working on, (and about a gazillion future projects!) That I could use this for!! & That this product would make SO MUCH EASIER FOR ME!!...AND...CUT MY LABOR TIME IMMENSELY!!! I just LOVE, LOVE, LOVE IT!! Now.. I've GOT TO find out how/where I can order it!! (:

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Dayna @kaleidoscopebrain

11 years ago

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Agree that this would be great for small jobs
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HD

11 years ago

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Having worked in construction and carpenter shops, my first question would be 'how well would this work in industrial fields?' You know, heavy big jobs? Like putting up drywall, mudding it, etc. So far it looks like something for crafts people and creative folk. I like the concept but from what I see the design needs a 'rough' look to it because those construction guys don't like sissy looking stuff.
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Sach

11 years ago

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It seems like it would be better for smaller jobs. I've always been taught to use sanding blocks and work in different directions to get a consistent surface. Something soft would only enhance the inconsistencies.
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David

11 years ago

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Or just go to the hardware store and buy pack of 3M sponge sanding pads because they already exist?
I hate Quirky. There. I said it.
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bob

11 years ago

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this is a great concept- like manti teo's gf- nice in concept.

It just gave me an idea for moldable dentures- just chew on it with your gums until it hardens
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powers

11 years ago

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Can't wait for 500 - 2000!
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