Edition #244.1
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Edition #244.1
July 10, 2019
Working With Tools
Kreg Adaptive Cutting System
While a table saw may be the first tool you'd think of for cutting project parts to size, it certainly isn't your only option. Logan Wittmer takes a look at the Kreg Adaptive Cutting System and how it can handle these essential shop tasks.
Working With Tools
Jointer/Planer Combo
A power jointer and thickness planer form a reliable tag team to create smooth, flat boards from rough stock. It's the foundation for building nearly any project. The two machines can take up a lot of space, though. John Doyle and Logan Wittmer talk about another option — a combination machine. This space-saving tool gives you a 12" jointer and planer in the same footprint.
Shop Tip
Electrostatic Fan
There's so much more that a box fan can do in a shop than keep you cool during the summer. These inexpensive units can provide ventilation air while finishing. With the addition of a furnace filter, you can help clear your shop of harmful airborne dust particles. Take a look at a way to get the job done even better.
Edition #244.2
July 17, 2019
Shop Project
Shop-Built Mallet
A hefty solid-wood mallet is a great tool for assembling projects, or for gentle persuasion when you don't want to mar a surface. Designer John Doyle made one from a old plan and shows you just how it's done. You're sure to learn some great tips for shaping wood.
Shop Tip
Waterstone Repair
If you've ever had a sharpening stone break, you know how heartbreaking it feels. We had two break recently. It isn't just money down the drain. Phil Huber shows you how to make lemonade from this situation.
Edition #244.3
July 24, 2019
Designer's Notebook
Cradle
One of the most-popular projects in the 40-year history of Woodsmith is a baby cradle. With that in mind, designer Dillon Baker gave the project a fresh look. Take a look to see the details he included to make this a great heirloom project.
Woodworking Technique
Vacuum Stabilizing
Things get interesting any time you combine woodworking and chemistry. Logan Wittmer experimented with vacuum stabilizing wood with acrylic resin. With a few simple steps, you can transform cast-off firewood into the basis for a special product.
Shop Tip
Drill Press Hold-Down
After making a pair of hold-downs for his drill press, Phil Huber found a couple ways to make them work even better. Find out how making simple additions can improve these handy accessory.
Edition #244.4
July 31, 2019
Router Workshop
Routing Big Bad Mortises
Making full size doors requires big, strong mortises. Thankfully, you probably have most of what you need to do the job in your shop. Logan Wittmer shares how you can create accurate mortises for long-lasting joinery details.
Shop Tip
Using Your Noodle
While plywood can be pretty handy for making large panels, it can be a little awkward moving it around your shop. An inexpensive solution might just be floating in your backyard pool.
Edition #244.5
Aug. 7, 2019
Woodworking Technique
Turning on the Table Saw
Faced with creating round wood pins, Designer Dillon Baker crafted a table saw jig to do the job. Here, Phil Huber shows you how the jig works — no lathe required.
Designer's Notebook
Shadow Boxes
Looking for a fresh way to display small, treasured items, designer Dillon Baker created a set of three display frames. Think extra-deep picture frames. Dillon shares the design details of these easy-to-make frames.
Shop Tip
Handscrew University Part 2
Restoring a vintage hand saw requires removing the saw nuts and tote. These saw nuts sometimes won't loosen. Here's a way to break the connection and remove them without causing damage.
Edition #244.6
Aug. 14, 2019
Shop Project
Pocket Hole Jig
You're probably familiar with a pocket hole jig that uses a handheld drill to form the pockets. Here's a way to speed up the process while using your router. This smart jig cuts clean pockets and is easy to make in less than a day.
Shop Tip
Scissor Jack Outfeed Support
Your planer, table saw, band saw, router table and other tools can all benefit from extra workpiece support from time to time. This interesting solution repurposes a scissor jack into a power tool side kick.
Edition #244.7
Aug. 21, 2019
Working With Tools
Compass & Dividers
As odd as it sounds, for some layout tasks, numbers don't matter. That's where a compass and dividers come onto the scene. These tools help you achieve consistent spacing, smooth curves, and so much more. Logan Wittmer shows you the basics.
Shop Tip
Combo Square Notch
For many woodworkers, a pencil and a marking gauge are the power couple of layout work. These simple tools can accomplish a lot. But there are still some details to master. Here's one you need to know.
Edition #244.8
Aug. 28, 2019
Woodworking Technique
Custom Molding & Crackled Finish
Woodworkers usually strive for smooth, shimmering surfaces. However, you can achieve a unique look when you ahead the other direction. Here's a technique for applying paint that gives the appearance of age and well-loved years. It's a lot easier than it seems.
Shop Tip
Scrubbing Away Chalk Marks
Chalk comes in handy for making temporary marks on project pieces. But on open pore wood, the marks can be tough to remove with sandpaper or even a solvent like denatured alcohol. Here's a better, faster way to erase the marks.