Introduction: CONVERT OLD TOOTHBRUSHES INTO MINIATURE ELECTRIC SANDERS

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This is a very simple Instructable on how to turn old or new electric toothbrushes and/or facial massages into small electric sanders.

I make a lot of clay and plaster sculptures and sometimes they are so small or so detailed that using sanding paper is impossible. Dremel is usually great for small details, but it can be too powerful for fragile items. Converting an electric toothbrush into a sander can help with sanding or polishing small and difficult to access places.

I used a regular electric, rotary toothbrush as well as "disposable" vibrating toothbrush. They provide a completely different set of motions. I also used an old electric facial massager/brush to create a sander with a bigger head.

All those devices are either powered by batteries or have the ability to be re-charged. They are not very powerful compared to regular electric sanders or dremmel-like tools, but they can be a great help when you require light sanding on small or fragile items.

Step 1: Supplies

Step 2: Remove Bristles

Use a very sharp scalpel to remove the bristles. Use your thumb to press the bristles down and slice them away bit by bit. Make sure they are cut as close to the surface as possible.

Step 3: Attach Velcro

Use scissors to cut velcro to fit each toothbrush head.

Mix small amount of Gorilla glue and use it to attach velcro pieces to the heads.

Step 4: Prepare Sanding Pads

As mentioned before, use sanding pads with soft velcro backing. Cut them to fit the heads of the toothbrushes.

Step 5: Attach Sanding Pads

Once the glue is dry, attach the sanding pads to the heads. If you want to replace used pads, simply peel them off and attach new pads.