DIY Compact Portable Magnetic Laptop Shelf Build Instructions
Step 3
Glue Magnets to Folding Brackets
Page 1: Overview & Step 1: Drill Holes
Page 2: Step 2: Mount Brackets
Page 3: Step 3: Glue Magnets
Page 4: Step 4: Add Anti-Slip
Page 5: Options & Variations
Page 6: Photos of Shelf in Use (IUEC)
Page 7: Read More, FAQ, Recipient List
*Edit 2024; I now recommend different magnets and sanding paint completely off brackets for a better glue bond. This is important and I have a dedicated post just on Magnetic Brackets web post
From totalElement I received 1/2″ x 1/2″ x 1/16″ and 1/2″ x 3/4″ x 1/16″ Super Strong N52 Neodymium Block Magnets (buy here).
NOTE these Neodymium Magnets are N52 which is very strong. If you use a lower grade, you may need more magnets than I am using. I recommend buying from a reputable source like totalElement because ebay and amazon sellers often advertise a stronger grade than they sell.
*Edit 2024; In 2021 I started experimenting with 1/8” x 1/8” x 1/32” and 1/4” x 1/4” x 1/32” super thin magnets which I find to be far better than the 1/2” x 1/16” magnets for my portable magnetic shelves. I now recommend the 1/4” x 1/4” x 1/32 for best compromise of functionality, ease of build and cost (1/8” x1/8″ x 1/32″ is better but harder to build and more costly). See dedicated post here
1/4” x 1/4” x 1/32” model video excerpt
First set the 1/16″ thick Block Magnets side by side alternating the poles. Then glue *6 magnets at the top of the bracket and 2 magnets at the bottom of the bracket. Use impact resistant super glue. Impact resistant because when you mount the shelf to a metal surface, it will impact hard because of the strong magnetic attraction.
For demonstration I used a Magnetic Pole Detector and marked the poles with colored Sharpie markers but that is not necessary. If the edges of the magnets stick together the poles are opposites. If the edges repel each other, the poles are identical.
It’s important to alternate the poles as that strengthens the attraction to metal while having all the poles facing the same direction weakens the attraction to metal. In layman’s terms, if all the poles face the same way, the fields fight one another. If the poles alternate, the fields work in conjunction with one another. *Edit 2024 Read more on magnet poles and fields here.
*Edit 2024; Layout of 1/8” magnets and layout of 1/4” magnets.
I now glue magnets to brackets first before mounting brackets as explained in dedicated web post
How Many Magnets?
The bottom only needs two 1/2″ x 1/2″ magnets side by side because all the pulling force is at the top. The bottom magnets are only to to keep the bracket flush to the mounting surface and to add anti-slip friction so the shelf doesn’t just slide down.
The number of magnets on top will depend on use and personal preference. The more magnets you add the more difficult the laptop shelf is to remove. It’s more difficult to remove than you would think but I learned an easy trick – How NOT To & How To .
Qty (4) 1/2″ x 1/2″ Magnets: Low Strength, easy to remove, ok for laptops & most application but can be knocked off if not careful.
(*Edit 2020_09, I no longer recommend Low Strength 4 Magnet since learning and easy method to remove the stronger shelf video)- Qty (6) 1/2″ x 1/2″ Magnets: High Strength, for holding laptops & some tools/materials.
(*Edit 2020_09, I now recommend High Strength 6 Top Magnets so the shelf can be used for heavier duty applications like holding hardware bins video) - (Edit 2021)
Qty (10) 1/2″ x 1/2″ Magnets (entire bracket): Super Strength for heavy Tools & Material.
I find myself using these shelves more ofter to hold heavy tools and material than a laptop. Way too strong, don’t recommend, video coming soon. - (Edit 2024) New configs started experimenting with in 2021
Qty (60) 1/4” x 1/4” x 1/32” Magnets (entire bracket): Strong and relatively easy to build with proper technique and materials.
(Qty) (280) 1/8” x 1/8” x 1/32” Magnets (entire bracket): Very strong but more difficult and expensive to build.
Full details both configs: https://www.kevingittemeier.com/magnetic-folding-shelf-brackets/
Weight comparison of different models coming soon youtube.com/user/KGittemeier
1/4” x 1/4” x 1/32 sneak peak loaded
Sneak peak of 1/4″ model loaded with weights at 3:30. More video of load testing models coming soon so subscribe to my YouTube Channel www.youtube.com/KGittemeier
Best Compromise for General Use *Edit just use 6 Top Magnets, not this configuration.
Qty (2) 1/2″ x 1/2″ Magnets & Qty (2) 1/2″ x 3/4″ Magnets: Medium Strength, does everything I could reasonably expect and not too difficult to remove from metal surface. Won’t get knocked off, it will just slide down the surface if overloaded unless you act like a repair guy and drop bricks on the end of it.
or
*Edit 2024; 1/4” x 1/4” x 1/32 or 1/8” x 1/8” x 1/32
*EDIT 2020-09-02, Stronger may be Better
This fully loaded Milwaukee Organizer is supported by the 3/4″ & 1/2″ compromise magnet combo but can be knocked off if pressing down on the end of the organizer. I had not planned to use the Magnetic Utility Shelf in this manner when I designed it but found it helpful today 2020-09-02. For this application I recommend using (6) 1/2″ magnets on top for added strength (video).
Edit 2021: if for tools and material (not laptops) put 20 magnets down the entire bracket but it will be incredibly strong and must be removed with proper technique or can damage brackets.
I plan to do a weight test of each configuration. I may even do a giveaway with the person guessing closest to any, gets one free. Sneak Peak video
The easiest way I have found to apply the magnets is to:
– Layout the magnets with poles alternated.
– Apply a strip of electric tape double sided mounting tape to magnets.
– Apply impact resistant super glue to the magnets
*Edit 2024; 220 grit scuff and clean magnets first for a better glue bond.
– Apply magnets to the bracket by by holding the tape ends, not the magnets.
This will keep you from glueing your fingers.
The magnets are attracted to the bracket and will hold in place while the glue sets. If not aligned properly, you typically have a second to slide and align the entire block of magnets. Once the glue sets, apply an additional bead of glue around the edges of the magnets for added strength and wipe to create a glue bevel.
*Edit 2024; Thin glue coat and glue bevel shown on 1/4″ x 1/4″ x 1/32″ magnet model diagram.
I recommend scuffing the magnets and brackets so the glue has a better surface to adhere to.
*Edit 2024; I recommend sanding the paint completely off the back of the bracket and 220 grit scuff magnets for a better glue bond. Clean before proceeding. Full details here
*Edit 2024; Layout 1/8” magnets above, layout of 1/4” magnets below. Capture and lift with 15lbs double sided mounting tape which is stiff enough to not fold over on itself like painters tape can. Use weak 15lbs tape so it will peal off the magnets after glueing to bracket. Full details here.
3M 15lbs Mounting Tape: https://amzn.to/3tVahWc
You might ask, “Will the magnets come loose from the bracket and stay on the metal surface?” They might over time but keep in mind the magnet is equally attracted to the metal bracket as well and has the added strength of glue (2 against 1). Just make sure the glue is thin so the magnet is as close to the bracket as possible for increased magnetic attraction and also impact resistant so the glue won’t crack and fail over time.
*Edit 2024; with abuse and/or adverse environmental conditions the magnets can detach from bracket. That is why I now recommend sanding the paint completely off the bracket, scuffing the magnets with 220 grit and spray painting then clear coating the magnets. Not only is this a better bonding surface for the glue but when glued and painted properly the magnets are closer to the actual metal of the bracket for a stronger magnetic bond. See full details page 2 of Magnetic Bracket post
Lock Closed Magnet
This Magnet is important!
I found that with folding brackets closed, they can spring open on you with the slightest bump. This is incredibly annoying so I added a paper thin 1/32″ thick 1/2″ x 1/4″ magnet to hold the bracket closed. You can use one of the larger 1/2″ x 1/2″ x 1/16″ magnets if you want to but I recommend getting these 1/32″ super thin magnets.
On later models I use three 1/4″ x 1/4″ x 1/32″ magnets (rather than one 1/2″x1/4″ as pictured) because they are stronger due to alternating poles. buy here.
*Edit 2024; 1/4″ x 1/4″ x 1/32″ magnet model with three 1/4″ magnets as lock closed magnets. Much stronger than the single 1/2″ x 1/4″ x 1/32″ which may matter if mounted inside a moving vehicle or boat. It can spring open if not. See full details here.
These are so thin that when the bracket is closed the extra 1/32″ in almost unnoticeable. Just be careful not to slam the bracket closed as hard as you can (repair guys!) or you may shatter the magnet.
Shatter Potential
Be sure not to allow the magnets to collide or they will shatter. That is why I starting using tape double sided mounting tape to apply the magnets. When holding the ends of the tape firmly to apply the magnetic to the bracket, they won’t fold over onto themselves shattering in the process.
Remember, buy more magnets than you think you need! They are cheaper in bulk and you can also find a use for extras as seen Here
Super Shelf!
Well, that’s a bit much!
How many pounds will this one hold?
Never mind that once its mounted, it’s not coming off (*edit, not true, comes off easy with proper procedure but does hold an insane amount of weight).
6 Top Magnet version with electric tape covering.
- 1/2” x 1/2” x 1/16” N52 Block Magnets: totalElement
- 1/4″ x 1/4″ x 1/32″ N52 Block Magnets: totalElement
- Gorilla Super Glue Impact Resistant: https://amzn.to/3h0tDgg
- OPTIONAL
- Magnet Pole Detector: https://amzn.to/2Dx2iEC
- Colored Markers: https://amzn.to/31ZdhjF
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Thanks for your support!
Next Page for Step 4: Add Anti-Slip
Edit 2024; Dedicated web post on new Magnetic Bracket config
Page 1: Overview & Step 1: Drill Holes
Page 2: Step 2: Mount Brackets
Page 3: Step 3: Glue Magnets
Page 4: Step 4: Add Anti-Slip
Page 5: Options & Variations
Page 6: Photos of Shelf in Use (IUEC)
Page 7: Read More, FAQ, Recipient List
Hey Kevin, how is version 3 coming along? I can’t imagine what your plans are for making it “thinner, lighter and more compact.” I’ve been a lurker for a while as I was going to make my own invention just as you have done, but you have done a ton of the trial and error as well research into making your shelf.
I came up with the same idea a year ago when I saw a shelf like it mounted with screws in a PLC console and I told the tech I was working with that it would be awesome to mount one of those with strong magnets and have it moveable around all of our different work areas and sites… they just shrugged and I stayed busy with work as I was the FNG. Finally with a little more down time and days of research several months ago, I saw that you had the same drive as I for a product/project like the one you have created. Anyhow, great work thus far on your personal project, I hope to order the materials soon so that I can have a couple of shelves lying around in my laptop bags/work truck.
Thanks,
Version 3 won’t start for a while as I have other projects to complete first.
Version 1 took me nearly 20 years to complete when I found the half started project while cleaning my basement and finally finished it. Version 2 had been in my head for years but took that long to find the proper hinges.
The key to Version 2 is the low profile hinges and the magnet configuration. I will explain the science behind the magnet config in a future update but its important to do the magnets exactly as I have, alternating the poles.
I have one model that uses 1/32″ thick magnets and holds very strong. Yes 1/32″ paper thin magnets. The key is the alternating poles.
I will update this post in the future with more info but time is very limited and I make little to no money off these posts (1-3% off amazon links) so its hard to justify the time.
Good luck and remember you can help support this website and YouTube channel by Subscribing, hitting Like & Commenting on videos.
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Kevin thank you so much……it works great it’s perfect for relay testing on switch gear.
I changed it a bit and used clear acrylic instead …it’s better for me
Thank you
Chris
That’s awesome! If you like email some photos and I will post them on a dedicated section to display peoples variations.
Did you use acrylic or Lexan? I have found in my experience Lexan is easy to cut and drill than acrylic. For example I used Lexan on this panel mount build https://youtu.be/a826q0I0a_Y buy used acrylic on a previous build https://youtu.be/YOzw9btb–k
I do card access for a living and this shelf is amazing! I made two for myself and am about to assemble two more as gifts for my coworkers (you should see the jealousy in their eyes when I snap it onto a panel).
That’s awesome! I just had a conversation with a national tech support troubleshooter (in elevator industry) and he mentioned that he had stumbled on my website from the laptop shelf post. For years now several of those brackets sell per week (according to my Amazon affiliate data). That’s hundreds of folding shelves built. I only make a few cents per purchase but it’s cool to think the post and YouTube videos inspired or assisted that many people to build one. I first came up with the idea in the year 2000 after seeing elevator techs hold laptops by hand. If you like, email some photos and I will post them on a new page on the post of viewer builds.
Hello Kevin,
Fantastic Idea and thanks for sharing with everyone. My question is about the magnet. Does the magnet can damage hard hard drive or any other parts on the laptop? How strong the magnet should be to effect and damage the hard drive?
Thanks,
Thanks, and good question.
Anything is possible but practically, no. Remember powerful magnets are in hard drives but fields are shunted. Just don’t store the laptop shelf magnet side touching the laptop (likely would still be fine but just to be on safe side). Store it cutting board side towards laptop. I will make an edit fully explaining the magnetic shielding, concerns etc later today but it’s important to use the magnets I specify and alternate poles.
I’ll post my edit as a reply here as well.
Dude. Can I please just buy a version two from you ? Email me please. Kevdok13@gmail.com
I do fire alarm programming a lot and am always struggling with my tablet. This is amazing but I want it to be top quality and you seem to have all the small bugs worked out beautifully. If so let me know
Sure for enough money but once you add my price + shipping cost you may just want to build your own for around $50 in material.
I would be willing to sell some of the versions I already have built for $150 + shipping. I have no idea what shipping would cost but if you are interested I will find out. The remaining models are listed on page 6 towards the bottom: https://www.kevingittemeier.com/magnetic-shelf-v2/6/
I understand the struggle! Having a portable shelf can be a life saver.
Hey Kevin,
Have you ever tried this with a wooden board? I don’t see any draw backs.
I have not.
I like to use these cutting boards because they are light weight, inexpensive, durable, readily available and most of all suite the task perfectly.
A wooden board would look very nice and work well but not ideal for a hard use application in the field like I use mine. I have thought about making a nice wooden one just as an example though and posting video and pics.
Keep a lookout on my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/KGittemeier
Do you have another source for hinges that you like? As I type this, Amazon only has one of the 8″ brackets of the type you recommend in stock.
Or even an alternate hinge?
I have no acceptable alternate (I have tried many) and I have not been able to find that hinge anywhere else. Keep in mind that they are sold in pairs so that “1” in stock will allow you to make a shelf. They come in and out of stock often so keep checking if you want more.
When I see them in stock I buy several bc more and more co-workers keep wanting to buy shelves from me rather than build it.
Also note that I just added a page 7 with more info. More pics and info coming soon about “Pro Version”.
What kind of glue do you use? Also if that was a little wider I could clean a fish on it
Elmer’s Glue, and it’s plenty big enough to clean your gold fish crackers.
Thank you for this DIY, the details are awesome. I plan to make my own, only bigger. I have a 17″ laptop that is 16″ wide. I also have a laptop top tray that I use when sitting in a chair or bed at home. So, I plan to buy a cutting board that is 24″ by 14″ by 1/2′ thick. My question is, how thick are the boards that you use? I need to know the thickness of your board in comparison to the bolts you use so I can size bolts for my application. How far do your bolts stick out from the bottom of your board? (thickness of board + how far the bolts stick out should = the total length of bolt needed).
Also, in your opinion, do you think a 14″ board (front to back) would be OK with the hinges and amount of magnets you use? Or, do you think there may be an issue with magnetic attraction to the surface due to the additional leverage from the longer board?
The Mainstay/Dexas boards I use are about 1/4” thick with 3/8” edges because they have a recessed top so a lip around the edges. With this board, 12mm screws recessed works well. You will need it to be about 3/16″ passed the board to pass through folding hinge and thread the nut but too long interferes with hinge closure. Be sure to account for recess if you plan to recess your screws.
A 24” x 14” by 1/2” thick is a big heavy board. I would try to make do with something a little smaller. I have seen the plastic cutting boards like mine, bigger than my dimension but still about same thickness and light weight. I believe the linked bracket will work will a smaller lighter board.
For your board you will likely need a larger bracket (larger B measurement in diagram on link) The magnets are plenty strong enough but the leverage will be the issue. At one time they sold a lager hinge on the same link but I don’t think the B measurement was any longer, only the A measurement.
Good luck and let me know how it goes.
Super excited to get started on this project of yours myself! Just purchased all materials. I’m going with the Farberware 11” x 14” board. Your instructions above recommend to go with the 8mm M4 bolts. However while comparing the length of the bolts with the thickness of the board (just over 1/4” thick) I won’t appear to have enough bolt left over to thread the nut. Perhaps the thickness of the Farberware has changed.
After reading the most recent comment above, I should use a 12mm M4 bolt with a 1/4” board, correct? Or am I not recessing the bolt in far enough?
Yes 8mm. My measurements account for using flathead countersink screws and countersinking the hole. The depth of countersink must be precise though because too much tread on the other side (the nut side) will result in the folding hinge not closing properly (see pic page 2). Ideally the bolt end will be flush with the nut with no protrusion or even a little recessed. Locktite on screw or dab of glue on screw nut once secured, don’t overtighten.
I recommend countersinking a little shallow first then checking. You want the heads flat with surface and not protruding but they can can be recessed a little (below surface) without issue.
I also recommend just buying 8, 10 & 12mm lengths. They are not very much money, you’ll be sure to have what you need and may use them for other projects as well.
I do my magnets different now and just completely cover the entire bracket with 3 rows of 20 1/4″x1/4″x1/32″ thick magnets. I’ll try to put a pick and notes on the site this weekend.
Here is a video with one done with this magnet configuration and spray painted:
https://youtu.be/KE2LjRiIgmk?si=CaGfWp5UsEvuFkRV&t=210
Good luck and let me know how it turns out.
Why not just buy this side shelf for toolboxes from harbor freight and put the magnets on it?
https://www.harborfreight.com/side-tray-for-5-drawer-mechanics-cart-and-6-drawer-full-bank-cart-yellow-59447.html
I own that folding shelf and while it’s great for what it is, it’s too big and heavy to be a portable laptop shelf (for me). It won’t fit in a laptop bag or tool backpack. It’s bigger than it may seem from photos.
I’ll post a video of it in my Conex storage container web post.
Thanks for the suggestion though.
I have long searched for something similar but smaller but I have yet to find anything adequate.
2024; In 2021 I started experimenting with 1/8” x 1/8” x 1/32” and 1/4” x 1/4” x 1/32” super thin magnets which I find to be far better for my portable magnetic shelves than the 1/2” x 1/16” magnets. I now recommend the 1/4” x 1/4” x 1/32 for best compromise of functionality, ease of build and cost (1/8” is better but harder to build and more costly). I also use new magnet coating, see dedicated post here https://www.kevingittemeier.com/magnetic-folding-shelf-brackets/