Vertical Laptop Stand

Make a vertical laptop stand (inspired by Twelve South's BookArc). Positioning a laptop vertically reduces heat buildup on the bottom and allows it to run much cooler!

Step 1: Measurements

Measure the thickness of your laptop. If you use calipers, I suggest applying some tape on the jaws to avoid scratching your computer.

You'll need to do some calculations to determine the size of all the pieces. All the measurements are in the PDF plans: http://fasteasysmarttool.com/laptop/

Step 2: Step 2: Cut Pieces to Width

I cut down a sheet of 3/4" plywood to a manageable size. Then at the mitre saw, I cut two thin strips (1"), and one thick strip* (2 5/8").

*These dimensions should be adjusted for your laptop per the plans in step 1.

Step 3: Cut Pieces to Length

The mitre saw table is adjusted to 22.5°.

I apply masking tape to the plywood to control tearout.

Step 4: Sanding

Prepare the surfaces for gluing.

Step 5: Tape the Bits Together

Use masking tape to hold everything together before the glue-up.

Step 6: Test Fit

Perfect!

Step 7: Glue-up

Apply glue to all the joints. Let it set overnight.

Step 8: Glue Clean-Up

Clean-up any glue squeeze out, and break the edges with sandpaper.

Step 9: Route Cable Holes (Optional)

On the router table, I cut a slot on each side for cable management.

Step 10: Strength Test!

To be honest... I'm surprised it didn't break :)

Step 11: Apply Finish

I'm using enduro-var. First I pre-raise the grain with water. Then I apply two coats of finish, sanding between each coat.

Step 12: Done!

Your laptop has a new home!

Step 13: Video

Here's a video of the whole process.