Carpentry and Woodworking - how to use a table saw
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jeffstone
11-01-02, 03:52 PM
I need some tips on using my table saw....my father died last year and I now have the saw in my garage. Have never used one before. I need to cut some 8x1 pine to build a canopy for my aquarium. how high do I set the blade, etc. etc. etc.
Thanks,
Jeff
Thanks,
Jeff
fewalt
11-01-02, 08:29 PM
Hello Jeff,
You need to do a bit of homework before you plunge into the saw.
Try to find a book and/or video tape on table saws - it will probably have operation and safety advice, as well as some simple projects. Watch Norm Abrams on the NYWS on PBS or HGTV every chance you get. When using the saw's fence, you need to know about 'kickback' and how to avoid it.
As info, for 1" pine (actually 3/4" stock), the blade should be set at about 1" or just slightly higher. A good rule of thumb is 1/4" higher than the stock being cut.
Just ask us if you need more info,
fred
You need to do a bit of homework before you plunge into the saw.
Try to find a book and/or video tape on table saws - it will probably have operation and safety advice, as well as some simple projects. Watch Norm Abrams on the NYWS on PBS or HGTV every chance you get. When using the saw's fence, you need to know about 'kickback' and how to avoid it.
As info, for 1" pine (actually 3/4" stock), the blade should be set at about 1" or just slightly higher. A good rule of thumb is 1/4" higher than the stock being cut.
Just ask us if you need more info,
fred
Trent Bridley
11-02-02, 03:02 PM
Hi,
Fisrt reply by Fewalt is good advice. Try your local library for some books. I know that ours has at least 2 good sized books on table saws only. If you have a good library system they might even have some videos. Check some woodworking magazines for some books or videos on table saws. Watch your PBS stations for home or workshop types of shows, along with the cable stations that have DIY shows. Also I belive that most saws come with a operators manual / parts list that give you some information on their use. Off the top of my head, have good lighting, good work area (clear enough to walk around your saw and cut without hitting anything). Also no trip hazards (electrical cords etc, ) I sometimes cut without anyone around, but it is best to know that someone is close by. Read your manual and know operating procedures of the saw and of cutting, molding, sanding and other procedures that can be done on the table saw.
Starting out try some simple projects, bird feeders, bird houses, garden tool box, handymans tool box. Get use to how to measure, how to cut, and see what results you get from them and go on from there. Also get your self a plywood blade, rip or combination blade (24-40 tooth) with carbide tips. Those two blades shoud do you for starting off. Then as you get better and do different projects you can put some money out for more blades.
safe cutting,
good luck,
Trent
Fisrt reply by Fewalt is good advice. Try your local library for some books. I know that ours has at least 2 good sized books on table saws only. If you have a good library system they might even have some videos. Check some woodworking magazines for some books or videos on table saws. Watch your PBS stations for home or workshop types of shows, along with the cable stations that have DIY shows. Also I belive that most saws come with a operators manual / parts list that give you some information on their use. Off the top of my head, have good lighting, good work area (clear enough to walk around your saw and cut without hitting anything). Also no trip hazards (electrical cords etc, ) I sometimes cut without anyone around, but it is best to know that someone is close by. Read your manual and know operating procedures of the saw and of cutting, molding, sanding and other procedures that can be done on the table saw.
Starting out try some simple projects, bird feeders, bird houses, garden tool box, handymans tool box. Get use to how to measure, how to cut, and see what results you get from them and go on from there. Also get your self a plywood blade, rip or combination blade (24-40 tooth) with carbide tips. Those two blades shoud do you for starting off. Then as you get better and do different projects you can put some money out for more blades.
safe cutting,
good luck,
Trent
the_tow_guy
11-02-02, 04:10 PM
And I second (or third) fewalt's suggestion to watch Norm on New Yankee Workshop. His table saw is one of his main weapons and they always have good close up camera work that you can learn from.
jeffstone
11-03-02, 10:20 AM
Thank you for your replies. I have already downloaded and read the owners man. Great place to start. I will be going to the library tomorrow. Also will check out New Yankee Workshop.
thanks again,
Jeff
thanks again,
Jeff