Ellenkate Finley

What Size Jointer Do I Need?

Man trying to cut a piece of wood with a jointer

Deciding what size jointer do I need requires consideration of three factors; the width of the cutting surface, the length of the tables, and the weight of the base. How Does Size Affect Jointer Performance? If you’re considering adding a jointer to your woodshop footprint, make an informed decision by reviewing how size affects jointer …

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How to Make Biscuit Joints Without a Jointer

A man holding a biscuit joints

Biscuit jointers have a guide mounted on the front of the tool that allows you to cut a perfectly sized and shaped slot no matter what biscuit you are using. There’s no denying that using the best biscuit jointer is a convenient way to make biscuit joints, but you can achieve the same result with …

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What Is a Parallelogram Jointer?

A guy preparing his wood for parallelogram jointer

Parallelogram jointers are mid-sized power saws used for flattening the face or edge of lumber. Parallellogram jointers cost more than traditional jointers, but need less adjustment out of the box. While a traditional jointer may need periodic readjustment, the parallel bar design supporting the tables of a parallelogram jointer should not require adjusting. This article …

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Router vs Jigsaw

A router on the wood floor

While routers and jigsaws can perform some of the same jobs, they are not interchangeable. Selecting the best tool for the job means knowing the similarities and differences between these two tools, and what kinds of jobs each tool is best suited for. I’ll take you through the basics and tell you whether a router …

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How to Sand Concrete

Man sanding the floor using a machine

Sanding concrete smooths the surface and creates an attractive finish. There are several methods for sanding concrete, and a variety of tools that can be used for this purpose. This article explains when and how to sand concrete, walks you through each method, and tells you how to stay safe during the concrete sanding process. …

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How to Hold Logs While Cutting With a Chainsaw

Sawing wood with a chainsaw

To safely cut logs with a chainsaw, you must ensure that they are adequately supported and immobilized. A log jack is the best way to hold logs, but there are other options as well. I’ll cover everything you need to know in this article, as well as give some general tips for cutting logs with …

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How to Clean an Electric Chainsaw?

An electric chainsaw can tackle tough and gritty outdoor jobs, but at the end of the day, it will look pretty grimy. Sawdust and dirt can affect the performance of your chainsaw as well as decrease its lifespan. Make cleaning your electric chainsaw an essential part of your maintenance routine with this easy guide.  How …

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How to Start a Chainsaw

Man preparing on how to start a chainsaw

If you’ve never used a chainsaw before, just starting one up can be very intimidating. Follow this guide for tips and step-by-step instructions on how to start a chainsaw, whether that chain saw is gas-powered or electric. I’ll also include a list of the protective equipment you need, how to safely stop the chainsaw, and …

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Are Digital Angle Gauges Accurate?

Digital angle gauge on saw blade

Digital angle gauges are used by woodworkers to get precise results. Fine woodworking requires precise angles, and your digital angle finder must be completely accurate for your wood piece to turn out square and true. But, how do you know if your digital angle gauge is accurate? The product specifications should list a threshold for …

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How to Use a Benchtop Jointer

A person showing how to use a benchtop jointer

To achieve precise and consistent results in your woodworking endeavors, you need flat, true boards. A benchtop jointer can churn out perfectly milled boards, as long as you know how to use it. Learn the uses, features, and parts of benchtop jointers and get set up for success. I’ll also teach you some things to …

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How Does a Digital Angle Finder Work?

Digital angle finder on top of table saw blade

Digital angle finders are small, handheld tools that help woodworkers measure existing angles and/or mark up stock for angled cuts. They are essential for fine woodworking, and its important to understand the various type and how to use the tool. This article will explain further how does a digital angle finder work. Types of Digital Angle …

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How to Choose a Chainsaw

How to choose a chainsaw for cutting piece of wood

Investing in a chainsaw is an exciting but daunting proposition. You want to choose something safe and reliable that can meet all your needs. Learn how to choose a chainsaw and evaluate the different properties of chainsaws so you know what you’re looking at. How to Choose a Chainsaw Follow these steps when you need …

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