Introduction
Have you ever needed to bend some sheet metal in a straight line? Wanted to make some folds in sheet metal? Want to make a channel in sheet metal? Do you need a Sheet Metal Brake Bender? Most of the time you do not. You can use common everyday tools from around your work bench to simulate a Sheet Metal Brake Bender.

The Story
For a project I am working on, perhaps a future instructable. I needed to have a sturdy piece of thin metal. I had some sheet metal kicking around, but it was flimsy. Not strong enough to carry the weight for the task. I thought if I could fold the edges over that would give me the strength I needed and look good too. But I did not have a Sheet Metal Brake Bender on hand. This would be a good time to have one. I know how one works, could I duplicate the process with tools I already had on hand? I thought for a moment and a resounding "Yes", was the answer. Read on for my Impromptu Sheet Metal Brake Bender.

Objective
The intent of this instructable is to
1) provide an alternative to the costly purchase of a Sheet Metal Brake Bender tool,
2) provide a readily available and easy to assemble alternative,
3) give you the knowledge to use what is around you to overcome an obstacle like this,
4) encourage you to engage in a Do It Yourself franchise and community.

Step 1: Tools & Material

1) Level
2) Rafter's Square

Material
Sheet Metal

Skill Level
Easy

Time to Complete
Depends on your project. This project took 10 minutes to complete.

Step 2: Line the Rafter's Square on the Edge of the Table Over the Sheet Metal

The edge to be bent should hang over the edge of the table.

Step 3: Line the Level Underneath the Edge to Be Bent

Put the level against the table.

Step 4: Push the Level Up Until Sheet Metal Bends 90 Degrees

Hold the Rafter's Square down while you push up on the Level.

Step 5: 1st Bend Made

Almost done

Step 6: Push the Edge Over With Your Fingers

Step 7: Push the Level Down on the Edge You Just Made

Until it is flat.

Step 8: 1st Edge Completed

Nice Straight edge.

Step 9: Line the Rafter's Square on the Edge of the Table Over the Sheet Metal for the 2nd Bend

The edge to be bent should hang over the edge of the table.

Step 10: Line the Level Underneath the Edge for the 2nd Bend and Push Up Until You Reach 90 Degrees

Hold the Rafter's Square down while you push up on the Level.

Step 11: 2nd Bend Made

Almost done

Step 12: Push the Edge Over With Your Fingers

Step 13: Push the Level Down on the 2nd Edge You Just Made

Until it is flat

Step 14: 2nd Edge Completed

2 straight edges

Step 15: Observations & Summary

The benefits of this technique are
1) Quick to assemble, disassemble and store.
2) Tools readily available.
3) Can be modified for different projects. Use another Level instead of the Rafter's Square for a longer bend.

Summary
I am satisfied with the results of this Impromptu Sheet Metal Break Bender.

Then I saw, and considered it well. I looked upon it, and received instruction..

Introduction: Impromptu Sheet Metal Brake Bender