How to Saw With a Table Saw

Table saws are a necessary woodworking tool.

Learning how to saw with a table saw is a quick process. However, making detailed cuts down to 1/32 of an inch takes time and practice. Table saws are a common wood working tool and are meant to create a variety of cuts in wood. They can cut grooves, notches for dovetail joints, as well as divide large sheets of plywood into two. Precaution is key when using table saws. There is no forgiveness for any body part that comes in contact with a moving blade.

Things You'll Need

• Safety glasses
• Table saw
• Fence
• 2 push sticks

Instructions

1. Draw a straight line on the board where you want to cut it.

2. Position your body in a sturdy stance that allows you to move freely throughout the cut you are performing. The table saw should be turned off during this process. Bend your knees so you are able to move through the motion of the cut with bodily control. This will help prevent injury.

3. Feed wood into the blade so the blade cuts down and into the wood. Push the wood into the blade as it spins.

4. Use your fence as a guide when cutting straight lines, grooves or notches in boards. For cuts that are close to the fence, use push sticks to hold the wood against the fence, and to push the wood across the blade. Push sticks allow you to keep your hands away from the blade.

5. Guide wood across the blade without using the push stick or fence if the piece allows you to keep your hands at least 6 inches away from the blade. Use both hands to do this, with one on each side of the blade.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear safety glasses when using power tools.

• Keep your hands away from the blade at all times.

References

• New Wood Worker: Table Saw Basics
• "Step by Step Basic Carpentry"; Ben Allen; 1997