Mastering the Disc Sander: Smoothing, Shaping, and Finishing

Sanding isn’t glamorous, but it’s crucial. Whether you're smoothing a tabletop edge, fitting a

joint, smoothing a sawn contour, or fine-tuning a profile, the MARK 7's integrated disc sander

does it with power and precision. A disc sander may not be the flashiest tool in the shop, but it’s

one of the most versatile. From shaping to smoothing to precise angle sanding, the disc sander

can save hours of manual effort and improve the quality of your work. And YES, it can be used

for Grinding and Sharpening!

What You Can Do with a Disc Sander:

• Square off edges or ends perfectly flat on stock up to 4” thick.

• Sand bevels and miters at the precise angle they were cut.

• Shape curves or profiles in thin and thick materials.

• Finish or clean up small parts with control.

• Sanding multiple pieces to exactly the same length or width.

• Sharpen bench chisels, plane irons, and lathe tools.

• Crown and Base Molding

Thinking outside the box with the MARK 7

Pro Tips for Disc Sanding:

• ALWAYS Use the downward-spinning side (usually the left side) to hold the workpiece

  securely on the table.

• Keep the worktable positioned as close to the Sanding Disc for maximum support.

• Keep your table square and make light passes.

• Swap discs based on grit: coarse (60-80) for shaping, finer (120+) for finishing. Having

  multiple Sanding Discs makes for a quick and easy changeover.

• Reverse the motor direction for sanding complicated profiles (PowerPro Headstocks

  only).

• Use the Disc Sander Dust Chute or the Lower Saw Guard for efficient dust collection and

  to keep grinding dust off the Way Tubes.

Why the Shopsmith Disc Sander is a Shop Favorite

With its large 12" disc, the MARK 7 sander offers more surface area than typical benchtop sanders. The table is solid and adjustable, letting you set precise angles and support your work reliably. The power and precision of the Shopsmith make it ideal for everything from joinery tweaks to fine furniture finishing. Dust collection is simple and efficient.

Key Benefits:

• Integrated Dust Collection: Keeps your shop cleaner and your sanding more effective.

• Adjustable Table Angle: Easily set exact bevels.

• Sturdy Table Support: Prevents chatter and uneven sanding.

• Reversable Motor: Greater versatility - no need to turn the workpiece over to sand complicated profiles.

• Rip Fence and Miter Gauge: These are easily used as workpiece guides and stops. The angle cut is automatically transferred from the Table Saw to the Disc Sander.

Click for more sanding accessories.