How to Use a Jointer in Woodworking

A jointer is a handy machine to have in the woodworking shop to straighten the edge of lumber. The blades are sharp and rotating rapidly, so good knowledge of the machine and proper precautions are important for the safe use of a jointer. Once you become familiar with the basic cuts, you can use your jointer for beveling, chamfering and rabbeting.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Jointer
• Ear and eye safety gear
• Try square
• Push block or stick
• Wood

1. Perform a safety check before operating you jointer and make sure the cutting guard is in place. Check that the knives are sharp and adjusted properly to prevent kick back or uneven, excessive cutting.

2. Determine that the fence is perpendicular to the table by using a try square and adjust it to expose the proper amount of cutter head for the job you're doing. Adjust the in-feed table to the desired cutting depth, which is usually about 1/16 inch for softwood and 1/32 inch for hardwoods.

3. Power up the jointer and wait until it's completely up to speed before beginning to joint your lumber.
   
   

4. Stand to the left of the cutter head knives, holding the stock tightly against the fence, using a hold down push block according to the size of the stock you are jointing. Stock less that 3 inches wide or less than 1/2-inch thick requires the use of a push block to keep your hands a safe distance from the blades.

5. Push the stock with your right hand, holding the stock against the fence with your left hand. Feed the stock through the jointer, cutting with the grain of the wood.

6. Make as many passes over the cutter head as necessary. You're only shaving a small amount at a time, so it may take several passes.

7. Turn the jointer off when you're finished with the cut and don't leave it until it has stopped completely.

Tips & Warnings

• Always wear eye and ear protection when operating a jointer.
• Read your instruction manual, and follow all recommended safety precautions before operating your jointer.
• Use a push block or stick to feed the stock and keep your hands 12 inches from the cutter head at all times.
• Never joint stock that is less than 12 inches long or ends of stock less than 10 inches wide.
• Turn the jointer off and disconnect it from the power source, before adjusting cutter heads or servicing the jointer.
• Leave all safety guards in place unless your manual instructs you to remove them for a particular job, such as making rabbet joints.