Next Generation Sanding Blocks
For the creators. The builders. The perfectionists.
Next Generation Sanding Blocks
For the creators. The builders. The perfectionists.
Details about Black Diamond Blocks and Our Story
We took AFS sanding blocks to the next level using flexible polycarbonate and a redesigned shape focused on comfort and control. Built for DIY auto bodywork and serious restorers, Black Diamond Blocks deliver the precision, feel, and durability that modern materials make possible.
Our polycarbonate construction (often called Lexan or acrylic) offers the perfect balance of flex and flatness, allowing the block to follow curves while maintaining consistent panel contact. The ergonomic shape reduces fatigue during long sessions, while adjustable tension gives you full control over the stiffness of the block – and reduces the need for duplicate blocks of the same lenght.
Inspired by the discontinued but beloved AFS block design, we’ve modernized the formula while keeping what made those tools so popular — we proudly credit AFS on our About page for inspiring this next generation of sanding block.
Online Sandpaper List, Tools Ideas, Dust Control in the Shop, and more . . .
“I have just about every type of block sold today, these are very quickly becoming my favorite, the versatility is unrivaled, they are a perfected version of the old AFS blocks. Well done!!!!!”
Del P. Facebook
“Jason D., our body shop manager, recently purchased a set of your sanding blocks. After showing the blocks to his team, we have 6 employees who have expressed interest in purchasing sets as well.”
(Update: Order for 6 sets placed and shipped)
“Just tried my new Black Diamond Blocks on a ’66 Corvette hood that I thought I had flat. Wow! They showed low spots I didn’t know were there and helped me get it REALLY flat. These are now my Go To blocks!”
Classy Chassis, Olympia, WA
I set out to create the
“Best Sanding Blocks Ever”
Here is what I came up with . . .
Here is what I came up with . . .
Design of the Blocks
Final engineering documents. An ergonomic, chemically resistant, molded nitrile rubber handle, polycarbonate base and steel rods to adjust block flexibility/rigidity, with rubber end caps.
3-D CAD Rendering
Computer generated graphics of the design.
The Actual Products
Pictures of the completed blocks, manufactured with production tooling.
Initial offering is a set of (2) blocks; (1) 8-inch block, and (1) 16-inch block, each with (3) adjusting rods.
16-Inch Block
The 16-inch block is perfect for larger panels.
Functionally, you get four blocks in one. You can adjust the flexibility of the block, in increments, from very flexible to completely rigid.
8-Inch Block
The eight-inch block is designed for smaller areas, like fender and quarter-panel sections, behind and in front of the wheels.
Same as the larger block, you get four blocks in one, due to the incremental adjustability of the flex of the block.
Shipping Box
A shipping box that is attractive, sturdy and easy to open.
Storage for the Blocks
The shipping box is also designed to be a “tool box” to store the blocks in. There are cutouts for each block and for the two sets of rods.
From Concept to Reality
The first product run, through the production tooling, came out great! They are exactly to specifications and look and feel and work really, really good.
First an idea, then a sketch, a design, a prototype and then production.
These blocks are everything originally envisioned, and more!
A Few More Pictures
I believe these are tools that anyone would be happy to use and proud to own.
Black Diamond
Flexible Sanding Blocks
A short video showing the benefits and features of our Black Diamond sanding blocks
Check out this 3-D Model
Just click the image below
You’ll be taken to a cool, interactive 3-D model where you can see details of the sanding block
