How to Make Simple Plywood Dolly // Woodworking | I Like To Make Stuff

[@MakeThings]

Bob, good project. I usually end up carrying it with my back and then sitting the rest of the day out complaining about the pain while my wife massages me. Now...I'll build your plywood dolly...and fake the lift with my back to get the massages. Thanks man!

[@Iliketomakestuff]

Good plan!

[@GearheadDaily]

My name is Eric and I like to watch people make stuff.

[@GearheadDaily]

Indeed.

[@maxximumb]

My name is Maxx and I like to write comments after people watch people make stuff.

[@ohhaihooman6776]

Maxx B My name is Keila and I like to reply to people who write comments after people watch people make stuff.

[@nielsencs]

EarperFriendomFanson 1023 My name is Carl and I like to... probably better stop it now! ;)

[@insane_ravenger1558]

My name is Earl and I have a beat up El Camino (For those who get the reference lol)

[@AngieWilliamsDesigns]

That's a great and simple project. This is really handy for me. I HATE trying to carry in plywood and always have to wait for someone to help me.

[@DiningTablePrintPlay]

I did one of these recently for lugging around 18mm MR-MDF - it certainly made a huge difference! No cam clamp, though, I may see if I can fit one... The other thing that really helped was even simpler: fasten a big G-clamp over the top of the other end of the boards, and it gives you a much more comfortable horizontal handle to use!

[@monicaperdomo3983]

I was looking at buying something like this and the cheapest ones on McMaster care were $350. You just saved me a bunch of money! Subscribed!!

[@paulkubin]

Brilliant. Love how you don't obsess on perfection, but you share what you would do differently next time so others can benefit from your learning. Keep up the good work.

[@JoeRadose]

This is awesome. Being handicapped, and needing 2 sheets of 3/4 in the near future, I've been contemplating how to make it easier on myself - I think this is the ticket!

[@MrGuardcaptain]

Once again Bob you give an easy and accessible solution when before I only saw a problem. I've just spent a day getting full sheets through my garage and up my back garden....I'm going to take this concept and build a all terrain version with thicker and bigger castors. Thank again.

[@Iliketomakestuff]

Awesome!

[@paulinocosta2849]

Two pieces of this makes it even easier to transport the plate, excellent job, thank you for sharing, brother hug!

[@almagill]

Having hauled half a dozen 3/4" ply boards and twenty odd 12mm plasterboard (dry wall) panels into our shop last week... I really wish I could go back, make this and save my poor knees! Love those cams too. Nice action

[@grn9209]

Since subscribing to your channel I have learned so much! Today I built a swinging gate for our dog👊🏽. Thanks for the inspiration and knowledge 🛠

[@talonlebaron2053]

You're getting a like just for that Clamp Champ!!!

[@IanEriccc]

A two-wheel center dolly (larger wheels on an axle, channel between the wheels) works even better, with no need to lift the plywood as you move it. Just put the dolly near the center of the sheet instead of the end, and it'll be balanced front to back - no lifting as you move. I used to move hundred-pound-plus panels (and multiples of lighter material as well) this way without a problem. Mine was made from a scrap of heavy aluminum channel with Harbor Freight wheels and all thread for the axle, and a scrap of carpet on top to protect the panels and give friction (no cam-locks needed). Dig your vids, Bob - keep 'em coming!

[@michaelneal3162]

So I would love to see a rebuild series. Watching all the old ones and how you talk about what you would do different. I would love to see you put that into practice.

[@AFBoi120]

I subscribe to a lot of channels, but your videos are the ones I watch RELIGIOUSLY. Thanks for always giving us awesome content!!

[@Iliketomakestuff]

That's very kind, thanks Joe!!

[@duckattak]

Thank you for this video! Simple little day projects are always fun. Lately maker channels get too heavy on using CNC machines, 3D printers and super expensive tools most of the viewers will probably never afford. Thanks again bob doing this project tomorrow

[@horatioswrld]

First off, love showing the design/thought process at beginning. My dad made something like this but it was longer and was meant to go in th middle so it kinda self balances.

[@trevhaydon5090]

Another genius idea Bob..... And so simple. Great work my friend. All the best from North London, UK

[@dvalley3344]

I love this design with the cams. I made one using two 7 inch mower wheels. I needed these to get over the garage lip from my driveway. I will be adding a cam to my plywood carrier. These really help moving plywood. My design is not tippy so think about using mower wheels.

[@fernandomeneghetti]

Excellent work. Quick tip: if you add a spring to the cam you don't have to use bolts or worry about it loosening while in use.

[@stephanscott2206]

Great video! One thing I noticed. Maybe spin the grain of the bottom board to be perpendicular to the sheets your carrying. If you would drop the plywood too hard you could split the dolly in half.

[@jonathanstef3218]

Nice project Bob! One improvement I thought of was using rubber or sandpaper in the groove rather than a clamp, that way you can drop in a piece of plywood and the weight + friction would keep the dolly in place so that when it arrives at the destination, you don't need to un-clamp, just lift out. I've also thought of a plywood lift assist that could be added on to help lift the plywood onto a table, its a bit complicated to explain in text, but imagine the "buddy hook" attached to the rolling dolly and you'll get the idea. This would go along with the many suggestions to put the dolly near the middle of the plywood. Cheers!

[@ianmathews8594]

Great idea, Bob! This would be awesome to take along when buying plywood, as well. I bet it's less awkward to use than the huge, wobbly lumber carts. If your bolts are long enough, use a nut on the underside of the dolly as a jam nut to lock the bolt in place. You can dial in just the right amount of pre-load on the cams so they pivot smoothly but never loosen or tighten during use. And you won't be wearing out your wood threads over time!

[@zmanmd1641]

This is a great idea for a shop helper. Did you consider having the clamps mounted so they fold flat when engaged and stay wide when open? That way bumping into an object does not release them and a quick push with the toe closes them.

[@danielallen2000]

if you mount it 1/3 of the way in instead of all of the way on the edge you will have less weight to hold up but still have the control ... just a thought. great video, I watch them even if i have no interest in making the project, that's the sign of a creator that I really enjoy.

[@davidclauson5256]

Great quick project and video. Bob, put the dolly in the middle of the plywood and it'll be easier. Thanks

[@frankdiloreto2095]

This is a great way to move stuff around in the shop! An accessory you could add is a gripping handle on the opposite end that functions in the same way as the base to avoid awkwardly walking backwards. Anytime I walk backwards in a shop I'm afraid I am going to trip on a scrap or something.

[@project_idea]

I like the creative use of rocks as clamps!

[@henkspenk74]

Just watching it because the content is so good, thanks Bob, greets from the Netherlands!

[@GeneJordan]

This is an amazing accessory for any shop, especially a makerspace or hackerspace. When you aren't using it as a dolly for plywood, you could add a camera mount and use it as a DIY camera dolly.

[@tomtruesdale6901]

Pretty slick tool there Bob, thanks for making it. I have used a 18X24 flat furniture dolly for moving plywood before your tool is a MUCH better idea.

[@matimico]

Hi Bob, i like to make stuff too. My suggestion is you can make some kind of hook for your side of the sheet. A "J" or "S" hook allows you to do less effort for support the sheet. Thanks for your videos.

[@Zahlenteufel1]

really loving the clamp champ meme!!

[@TheDeadwhale]

Great project! Small tip for use is to put the Dolly more near the centre of the sheet so you dont have to lift al much weight at one end. Should make it more maneuvrable too.

[@maxximumb]

Bob, put the dolly in the middle of the sheet and then all the weight is on that. Saves your hands trying to lift the other end. The other way to use it is to give yourself a handle. Two ways to do this, a strap sling or old belt under the unsupported end. Hold the other end of the loop. Or make an arm extension. From a scrap of plywood, cut out a J shape with an oval on the top about 2" wider than your hand. Cut out a slot in the oval part that your hand can slide into. Now you have a device you can hook under the sheet material's unsupported end and hold comfortably with one hand. For a little extra friction, glue on some rubber from an old inner tube or offcuts of that non slip mat stuff with all the little holes in. Nice quick project.

[@Loredad13]

If I ever make this, I'm only going to use to use 2 casters, because I like to live life on the edge. Great idea, Bob.

[@cookieboro19851]

Great project bob. My suggestion would be make a little longer with a 1 sided cam and use it in the middle of the boards. It would still be small and easy to store but would take all the weight of the boards. Would have to have 4 wheels though.

[@boelie2001]

Nice work Bob! You could add a rope in by making a loop and shove it under the side you pick up. That way, you can keep your arms in a lower position and you do not need as much strength as if you hold the sheets high at chest-level. Hope this makes sense :)

[@eliosaile1689]

Great idea man! I bet if you placed it somewhere near the middle of the plywood sheets it could nearly balance itself and there would be no need for two. Keep up the great work!

[@blackattack2469]

Great job! I build alone & I’m not tall so these helper ideas are great.

[@Mike__B]

LOVE IT! And I'm not saying this because I'm about to redo a floor and will need to move 14 pieces of 3/4 T&G from my garage door to a room at the back out of the house.

[@vaughanchapman2930]

I really love your channel. I rarely comment but I watch every vid religiously! Such great work

[@Iliketomakestuff]

Thanks Vaughan!

[@gwog]

You could replace one cam with just another block the same height to have a taller 'back' for the plywood to rest against. Handy little project idea - thanks!

[@Hedrakk1]

You really cracked me up when you added clamps on the clamps! Keep up the good work!

[@Iliketomakestuff]

🗜️🏆

[@baserockbathead]

I have never seen a wooden clamp work that well! nice work!

[@markstegemeyer4976]

I think that arranging the casters two to the front (leading during travel) will likely be the most stable. Also, my experience is that the clamps will hold better if clamping curve is gentler - though one wonders if a clamp is required at all. I think I would try using an old bicycle innertube or 60 grit sandpaper to create enough friction and forgo the clamp. I don't see a clamp as particularly convenient without a wall to lean the wood against. Overall, very workable however. ** Just a note: I have one with bicycle tires I use to cross the lawn to my detached shop - made with a Johnson clamp it is wide enough to hold the wood upright - hands free - on a level surface. Thanks for demonstrating a very versatile and scalable idea!

[@ukp42]

I deliver furniture for a charity shop, & we put the dolly, in the middle. That takes the whole load, & you just have to steer. Simple :) Great video 5* :D

[@laureldavis500]

Thanks for your video! It inspired me to make something similar, but I used a clamp instead of the cams, and 2 larger swivel casters instead of 3. I’m a 67 yo woman and 5 feet tall, and was able to move 3 sheets of 3/4 OSB (one at a time) about 150’ over bumpy grass, and even up a small hill to my work site.

[@rablumberg]

Hi Bob! I like to see your projects, great job! In this one, I would use spacers to hold the cames, it would allow you to tight the bolts without lock the cames.

[@Duci1989]

I like this style of video where you explain a bit more "live" what your thought process is

[@BryanCollette]

Great idea, Bob! Always dig the bloopers too... Got some sheets to lug around the shop so might just have to throw one of these together.

[@Iliketomakestuff]

Great! Hope it's helpful!

[@qhartman]

Super jelly of that shop space!

[@crystalsoulslayer]

Great concept, and definitely works really well despite being designed on the fly! Suggest: You could size a single cam to have a full inch and a half extension when it's turned all the way, and have a taller "wall" on the other side. That would allow moving around thinner materials like hardboard without needing a spacer, and would probably be a little simpler to build. Alternatively, you might try cutting up an old mouse mat and gluing it to the bottom to get a nonslip surface instead of a clamp.

[@owendehm1586]

Thursdays are my new favourite day of the week

[@ZacJones]

Great video Bob, easy build and serves an awesome use! I break my back every time I carry ply sheets

[@daniellong6907]

Now you aught to make a handle to hold on to that uses a similar cam design!!! Great video Bob!

[@JoeMakes]

Good to see scroll saws gettin' some love!

[@cops2008]

this video is an example of ( work smarter not harder ) ,,, great work

[@marcosrodriguez8359]

Yessss it's Thursday!!! Nice video Bob, Good job as always

[@ScrapwoodCity]

Cool project! I really liked the clamping mechanism

[@Zedekiah23]

Great idea, thanks for posting this but being that I’m pushing 70, I’m going to use your idea except that I will be making mine about 12” long with the cams on one side and 4 casters as you suggested. This way I can just center the sheet of plywood on it and roll it to where I need it without having to hold up one of the ends. Easier on the shoulders!

[@brennenm2726]

very cool layout in your house so you have the ability to move that so easy. Looking good bob!

[@carlosmol62]

For move plywood is good with one, i see is more easily with two devices!!! Congratulations!!!

[@RedSmithWorkshop]

Nice idea Bob. Maybe a 4x4 version one day, to unload the truck and put the sheet in the shop ?😊

[@realguywithatie2363]

That's a great idea! It's so hard to move them big pieces of wood. Nice thinking! Maybe you could put bigger tires on it so you could move the pieces of wood over dirt - just a thought though

[@JonathanRansom]

The clamps! I love the clamps!

[@buildersmark]

Bob, try putting the roller clamp at the bottom center of the plywood(4') instead of the end. That way you're balancing it with one. Let me know if it works

[@hugopohlak5831]

You know it's a hell of a good day when ILTMS uploads a video!

[@Iliketomakestuff]

Thanks Hugo!

[@makerofthenorth8948]

Good shop tool! You should also make a cam handle for the side you are carrying by. will let you lift with your arm extended and give better control.

[@charleselkins4546]

Really nice job. Simple and effective.

[@secollectiv5086]

Great idea! You could pair that with one of those gripper things to make it even easier to move

[@2spoons]

Great idea... and I love the lock idea... (I might have to use that in other projects).... This is definitely going to sit in my car... so I can buy sheets with no problem!!

Great and useful, you could use the same concept and create a handle for the other side of the board so it's easier to lift

[@calebgray8170]

Nice use of the marker board. More marker board brainstorming sessions/walk-throughs please!

[@LivefreeanddiyTv]

Good idea... you could probably add a couple washers to prevent it from loosening or tightening the bolt... 🤓👍

[@Zhir99]

I will probably never make anything, but I love watching your videos.

[@AYoungMansWorkshop]

First: Great project! I really like it and made me realize I have enough stuff in the shop right now to do this. I have to work with a whole bunch of plywood in the next few weeks so very helpful. Second: This project made me think of many things, which includes that fact that the ying yang symbol are just cams.

[@cameronbennett4916]

Hey bob, great video. You could you use the same clamping method to create some sort of handle to move the boards too, instead of having to squeeze them in your hands. Could be an idea

[@johnathanj2636]

I don't even have a shop, but these videos are so satisfying

[@CuriousCreator]

Really interesting to show your thought process to get to a super useful final little tool! Now just need to come up with a super easy way to lift these full sheets onto a bench 😗

[@BruceAUlrich]

I'm sure it will involve a stepper motor somehow. ;)

[@mikesluitertijd]

Great idea, I made it without the wheels (yes without) put two holes in the middle so I can clamp in to my existing trolley with wing nuts if I need to move sheets.... Thanks for your videos!

[@JoshMakesStuff]

Look at those moving shots! True professionals! FIRST.

[@Ollaris]

The P.I. Workshop nicely done Josh!

[@richoslandscapephotography164]

Great idea bob. I could use on in the shop. Thanks for tones of inspiration. Also the guns are looking good.

[@Brauma54]

Bob, for a convenient handle, use an old belt or rope, loop it under the end you’ll be carrying. It really makes carrying plywood easy.

[@unogazzy84]

Great video. Could you make a video where you build the center-clamping version too?

[@santinorusso5221]

Great idea, a good addition to this could be adding a removable handle to the side you pull from.

[@uknowulikethat4042]

cool idea Bob, those clamps look like funky little mustachio's

[@chrisdurrant7011]

Nice. If the cams work loose you could drill out the hole a fraction larger and put a plastic/metal collar in so that the bolts clamp down on the collar and the cams rotate on the collar

[@joshmadden6573]

For the cam that loosens the bolt - if you take it out and flip it over and then put the bolt back in, it will lock in the clockwise direction like the other one and work better - it won't look the same on both sides, but it'll work!

This project remembers me something I want in a very long time: a gadget like that to move my motorcycle around the garage, but I'm always been undecided to do it for back wheel, center stand or side stand

[@hervevandevoorde8457]

Génial ! Congratulations from France .

[@wahyuagungsugama7449]

hey bob. since you have the dolly, why don't make some handle with the same principle as the dolly (with the cam)? just for safety reason like the plywood slipped from your hand or maybe plywood tearout that might poke your hand. love your channel bob. you do really make some useful stuff.

[@MrDoanxuanhai]

It’s awesome and very very useful ! Thanks Bob!

[@ManCrafting]

I’d like to do one with large all terrain tires. In my shop moving stuff is a challenge, but from my driveway to the basement is the real challenge. I normally use one of the handles that you slide under, but rolling is easier on my back.

[@acoffeewithsatan]

The holders remind me of Martin's solution to hold the programming boards on his musical Marble Machine, over the Wintergatan channel. It's really clever and simple in both projects, it's indeed a great concept for countless stuff!

[@toby1kenobe]

need a hand grip thing now too, as you lift, it squeezes the sheet(s). nice vid!

[@nielsencs]

Awesome project. I like your honest approach to mistakes/poor design choices. Iteration is how we get good design. One thought- you could chop it in half and move the two cams so each half has a cam and add another wheel so you could get 4 wheels - 2 at each end :)

[@archguitars]

Very helpful mate... Make it longer and u can put it in the center of the board than on the edge.

[@tommeaney7284]

Nice video, really like the thought process and explinations, do you not reckon you could put it in the middle and balance it? It doesnt seem to skid around too much...

[@colinhawkins8265]

You're a wizard, Harry.