Universal Scratch Pad Holder
How to Build a Universal Scratch Pad Holder
Design requirements
There are countless ways to affix a scratch pad to a surface; however, for this purpose, an acceptably designed holder must…
- …be inexpensive.
- …be durable.
- …be easy to build from readily available materials.
- …be easy to use.
- …be operable with one hand.
- …be operable by touch alone (since these are often installed around blind corners or other awkward places).
- …fit all common sizes of scratch pads.
- …hold the pads at a fixed height regardless of pad size.
- …not have parts that could harm cats.
- …not take up much space.
- …be able to be installed at an angle.
For this project, the important part of this concept is contemplating a space for a scratch station and providing a universal holder, not any specific design. However, for purposes of illustration, here is one design that meets all the criteria listed above.
Required materials
- A 36” F-style steel bar clamp with a ball-joint clamp pad
- A metal plate, approximately 1” x 4”, ideally with rounded teeth on one side to grip scratcher pad
- Adhesive capable of bonding plastic to metal, such as two-part epoxy glue
- 1/4" wood or plastic shims (exact size depends on bar clamp)
- 2 wood screws, bolts, or drywall anchors, depending on your installation
Photo: F-style bar clamp
Photo: Metal grip plate
Photo: Adhesive
Photo: Shims
Required tools
- A drill press (or a power drill and a very steady hand)
- Saw capable of cutting steel, such as a hacksaw or table saw
Assembly instructions
- Cut the clamp bar to fit the height of the mounting area.
- Using the adhesive, attach the grip plate to the ball-joint clamp pad on the moveable jaw.
- Drill two mounting holes through the clamp bar: one near the top and one near the bottom.
Illustration: Cutting the clamp bar
Illustration: Attaching the grip plate
Illustration: Drilling the mounting holes
Installation instructions
- Mount the clamp bar to the wall through the drilled holes, using shims to provide enough clearance for the sliding arm to move.
- Note: To install the clamp bar at an angle, which many cats prefer and will help retain catnip flakes, simply use thicker, angled shims. However, be advised that loading pads will then require two hands, since pads will no longer be able to be rested flat against the wall while loading.
Illustration: Installation: Front view
Illustration: Installation: Side view
Operating instructions
To load a new pad:
- Place the pad on the mounting plate
- Pull the sliding arm up until the pad is held firmly between the mounting plate below and the fixed jaw above.
- Turn the handle clockwise to provide a stronger hold.
Illustration: Placing the pad
Illustration: Pulling sliding arm up
Illustration: Turning the handle
To remove the pad:
- Press the quick-release lever and move the sliding arm down.
Illustration: Pressing the lever
Illustration: Moving the sliding arm