Maslow cut hinges for the basic wood frame

I got my frame all assembled only to discover it won’t fit in my garage because of the joists. So I was thinking of adding some hinges. I was thinking of cutting the frame and spoil board along the red line in this drawing:

And re-assembling using these ‘hinges’:


This one is literally my first cut on the machine.


Laying flat.


Mid bend.

They’re 8in by 3.5in with 3/8th inch hinge pin holes (bolts).

I plan to cut 45deg chunks out of the 2x4 to enable it to fold, but I am not planning to round the edge. I figure if there’s some resistance to laying flat, that’ll add rigidity to the frame.

Running bolts through the ‘sandwich’, and ultimately being able to store the frame folded in half.

One of the things I like about this idea is that it uses the material leftovers that I had from building the frame to make the hinges (3/4in plywood). I’m planning to use 3/8th inch bolts, with either lock nuts or wing nuts.

I’m pretty much a noob to all of this, which is why I’m posting in No-Judgement. So I was wondering what y’all thought of this plan? Any improvements you’re thinking of would be much appreciated.

On OnShape if you’re interested: Onshape

I also made an Abundance Model: GitHub - loadedsith/2x4-Hinge

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That is a super slick solution!

Do you find that it lands back in the same place close enough that you don’t need to calibrate when it resets?

Don’t know yet… I guess we’ll find out!

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I have the same problem. I am going to make mine with the hinges on the horizonal plain. And a lumber rack on the backside. When not in use will tuck tail up on itself and when not completely unfolded will be a secondary work table. It’s still in the works. No drawings yet.

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Making a table out of the partially folded frame seems like a great idea :slight_smile:

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