Recently I needed to drill precise holes in 10-ft.-long posts. The drill-press table was about 52 in. high, and I needed to support the post at the same height. My roller stand extends only to a height of 44 in., so I needed another way. My solution was to suspend the opposite end of the board on an adjustable sling hung from the ceiling of my workshop.

The sling is a simple loop made of braided cord and a small block of wood with two holes. One hole is at 90°, the other at 45°. The angled hole helps keep the block horizontal under load. The holes must be just big enough to run the cord through.

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The sling is easily adjusted, even while holding a board; it is fast and convenient to set up; and it eliminates the need for a bulky stand. Size the sling (length of rope) to accommodate a substantial beam. The block makes it easy to adjust for smaller pieces.

One potential disadvantage is the tendency of the workpiece to swing back and forth on the sling end. This is easily remedied by clamping or firmly holding the workpiece to a fence on the drill press. This technique has worked so well that I have set up support slings for other tools in the workshop.

Drawings by Jim Richey.

Drawings by Jim Richey.

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