Introduction: Replace Hooks With Sugru + Magnets
There are two sides to everything, shelves are no exception.
For most of us keeping things organised can feel like a constant battle. Declutter your space with this simple idea.
This hack will save you a few seconds, a few times a day, and oh man are those few seconds satisfying!
For this project we used
- x2 minipacks of sugru - buy some sugru
- neodymium disc magnets - we used the magnets in the sugru + magnets kit
- a shelf
Step 1: Choosing Your Magnets
For this project we are using the super strong neodymium magnets from our sugru + magnets kit.
You can try this project using your own neodymium magnets + sugru, but make sure the magnets you choose are strong enough to hold what you are going to hang.
Step 2: Take Down Your Shelf
If you can, take down the shelf you are attaching magnets to. It will make mounting the magnets a lot easier.
Use a pencil to mark where you want to position your magnets.
Step 3: Smudge the Sugru
Top Tip: Make sure the surface you are applying the sugru to is clean.
At first it may appear sugru will not stick to some porous surfaces, oh but it will… let us explain. To bond sugru to porous materials like wood, build a small base layer of sugru first.
Top Tip: sugru bonds great to itself, so it's easy to build up the base layer one little piece at a time.
Smudge a pea sized piece into the wood with your finger, and make sure you get a good bond. Repeat this until you have a sugru smudge just a little bigger than the magnet you are attaching.
Video Tip: Applying sugru to rough or porous materials [51 secs]
Step 4: Build a Pyramid
Using the rest of the minipack, squidge a sausage of sugru onto the back of the magnet and press it into a pyramid shape.
Step 5: Squidge
Carefully and firmly press the magnet onto the shelf, so that sugru squeezes out around the edge of the magnet.
Enjoy that moment, it's sooo satisfying :)
Step 6: Press in the Sugru
Press the sugru in around the magnet, ensuring there is a good bond.
Step 7: Smooth the Sugru
Gently rub the sugru with your finger to smooth it.
Top Tip: use a little soapy water on your finger to get a really smooth sugru finish.
Leave for 24 hours to fully cure.
When your shelf is back up, it's ready to defy gravity.
Step 8: Make Anything Magnetic!
Want to hang something that isn't magnetic under your shelf? Maybe your umbrella? Or a bike helmet? sugru + magnets let you attach anything to anything.
It's simple, just repeat steps 4 - 7 to mount the opposing magnet on these objects.
Just don't forget to make sure the opposite side of this magnet is facing outwards so it snaps together.
Top Tip: If you have ever worked with magnets, you will know that they can be tricky to handle without knowing which sides attract. We designed the sugru + magnets kit to be super simple to use, so we put a small dimple on the north pole of each magnet. Just make sure one magnet is smooth and the other has a little dimple!
Enjoy those saved seconds!
Thanks for being part of the sugru community.
6 Comments
9 years ago
what is sugru? we don't have this in my country, but maybe there is an equivalent. does it go hard or does is stay payable?
Reply 9 years ago on Introduction
It hardens after it cures so that it will stay in place better, and it is available online. I've never seen it anywhere besides online.
9 years ago on Introduction
Smart idea indeed. What is the advantage of sugru over super glue?
Reply 9 years ago on Introduction
super glue will work but there are quiet a few benefits to using sugru, I'll give you a list: 1: super glue on a magnet has the tendency to shear off after time. 2: sugru is removable (on an untreated wood it will leave a stain but on treated wood it should come off with no marks) 3: If you want to bond a magnet to a surface that is not flat, like a bike handlebar, then sugru will fill the gaps. 4: sugru has excellent damping properties so will absorb impact that will help prolong the life of the magnet. I hope this is helpful.
9 years ago on Introduction
Wow, this is awesome! :D
9 years ago on Introduction
Smart idea to stay clutter free!