Custom Cup Turner Jaws: Design and Creation

Designing and creating custom cup turner jaws can be a fun and rewarding project, especially if you're a DIY enthusiast or someone looking to personalize their cup turner for specific cup shapes and sizes. Cup turner jaws are the components that hold the cups in place and rotate them for even epoxy coating or drying. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to design and create custom cup turner jaws:

Materials and Tools Needed:

Wood or acrylic sheets (for the jaws)

Measuring tape or ruler

Pencil

Saw (for cutting the wood or acrylic)

Sandpaper or a sander

Clamps

Wood glue or acrylic glue

Nuts and bolts

Screwdriver

Drill

Cup turner motor or base (if you don't have one, you can purchase a cup turner kit)

Cups of various sizes for reference

Step 1: Measure and Plan

Measure the dimensions of your cup turner's rotating disc or attachment area. This will help you determine the size of the jaws you need to create.

Step 2: Design the Jaws

Sketch out the design of your cup turner jaws on paper or use design software if you're comfortable with it. Consider the shape and size of the cups you want to work with. You can design jaws for different cup sizes if needed.

Step 3: Select the Material

Decide whether you want to make the jaws from wood or acrylic. Acrylic is a good choice for a more polished, clean look, while wood can add a rustic touch.

Step 4: Cut the Material

Use a saw to cut the wood or acrylic sheets into the shape of the jaws you designed. Make sure the size fits your cup turner's rotating disc or attachment area. If you're working with wood, you may want to sand the edges for a smooth finish.

Step 5: Assemble the Jaws

Place the jaws on either side of your cup, ensuring they align properly. Use clamps to hold them together while you make the next steps.

Step 6: Drill Holes

Drill holes through both the jaws where they align. These holes will allow you to attach the jaws to the cup turner base or rotating disc. Make sure the holes are appropriately sized for your nuts and bolts.

Step 7: Attach to Cup Turner

Place the cup turner jaws on the rotating disc or attachment area of your cup turner. Insert the nuts and bolts through the holes and secure them tightly. You may want to use washers to ensure a secure fit.

Step 8: Test and Adjust

Test the cup turner with different cup sizes to ensure the jaws securely hold the cups and that the cups rotate evenly. Make any necessary adjustments to the jaws or the placement of the bolts.

Step 9: Finish

If you used wood, you can finish the jaws with paint or varnish for protection and a polished look. If you used acrylic, you may want to polish the edges for a smooth finish.

Remember to prioritize safety throughout the project, especially when working with tools. Additionally, customize the design and size of your jaws based on your specific needs and the cups you plan to work with. This DIY project allows you to tailor your cup turner for your unique crafting requirements.