How to Make a Miter Cut With a Table Saw

The process for making miter cuts is similar to that for making cross cuts on a table saw. The difference is that the miter gauge is set at an angle for a miter cut. This allows you to produce diagonal cuts on your wood. Read on for complete instructions.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Table saw
• Wood
• Safety goggles

1. Remove the rip fence from the saw table. This is a crucial step since you will not be able, nor should you try, to make a miter cut with the rip fence still in place.

2. Put the miter gauge in place on the table. Turn the knob on the miter gauge to set it at the appropriate angle for your project, and lock the knob on the gauge. Then set the saw blade to the necessary height.

3. Place the piece of wood directly against the saw blade and mark the table with a pencil immediately below the blade. Then when you begin your cut, align the corner of your workpiece with the line you drew beneath the blade. This will minimize waste as you make your cut.

4. Allow the saw to warm up for a few seconds after turning it on to give it time to come to its full speed.

5. Push the miter gauge with the hand closer to the blade; at the same time, feed the wood forward with the hand that is farther from the blade.

6. Continue feeding the workpiece onto the blade until it has been cut through.

7. Switch off the saw and wait for it to come to a complete stop, then remove the wood pieces from the table.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not turn on the saw blade if the wood is touching it. Keep the workpiece clear of the blade until after you have turned on the saw.
• Use protective eyewear when using your table saw.