How to Cut a Rabbet Using a Table Saw

Creating a rabbet involves cutting a square section out of a piece of wood, also referred to as a stock. When the square is cut, it creates a recess or a groove. Rabbets are usually used to connect two pieces of stock, especially when building cabinets. They are one of the first joints new woodworkers learn.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Table saw
• Wood
• Measuring tape

1. Measure the height of the piece of wood to determine how deep you need to make your cut. The most common rabbet depth is approximately 1/3 of the thickness of the stock.

2. Set the width between the blade and the fence to your desired rabbet size. Measure from the outside of the blade to set the fence. If you're making a 3/4 by 3/4 inch rabbet, then you'll set the width to 3/4 inches for both the blade and the fence.

3. Turn on the table saw and lay the wood on its edge to begin cutting. Cut the entire length of the wood.

4. Lay the wood flat and cut along the entire length again.

Tips & Warnings

• A rabbet joint is often referred to as a joint with half a dado groove.
• For a rabbet joint to work, the wood needs a height that is at least half the width of the material.
• Make your cuts with multiple passes to create a better quality cut.
• Removing more than half of the thickness of your stock can weaken the joint.