The video “An Absurd Number of Table Saw Tips | Tricks for Better Table Saw Cuts” is by Newton Makes. In this video, Newton dives deep into the common issues woodworkers face at the table saw and offers a plethora of tips and tricks to enhance the quality of cuts.
Avoiding Burning on Cuts
When at the table saw, the last thing anyone wants is to ruin an expensive piece of wood with burning. Newton explains that burning typically indicates a dull blade or one that needs cleaning. Before investing in a new blade, he suggests cleaning it with a product like Simple Green, followed by applying a lubricant such as Blade Coat for optimal performance. 
Setting Up Your Table Saw
Proper setup is crucial for achieving clean cuts. Newton emphasizes the importance of using the right size riving knife that matches the thickness of your blade. If your riving knife is thicker than the blade, it can cause the wood to pinch, leading to burning or even dangerous situations. Regularly checking the calibration of your saw’s fence is also vital to ensure it remains aligned. 
Tips for Amazing Cuts
One of Newton’s standout recommendations is to utilize the resources available through the Woodworkers Guild of America, which offers premium instructional videos. Among the many common issues, tear-out when cutting plywood is highlighted. Newton mentions that using a zero clearance insert can significantly reduce tear-out and improve overall cut quality. 
Blade Alignment and Calibration
Ensuring that the blade is perfectly 90 degrees to the table is essential. Newton advises checking this with a square, making sure it touches the tabletop and the blade body, not just the throat plate. It’s also important to check both sides of the blade, as sometimes it may appear square on one side but not on the other. 
Miter Gauge Setup
The miter gauge is a vital tool for making accurate cuts. Newton suggests using a longer square for calibration to ensure that the miter gauge is 90 degrees to the blade. He also notes that a smooth sliding miter gauge is key to avoiding wonky cuts. If it’s too loose or too tight, it can affect the quality of the cut. 
Dealing with Tear-Out
Tear-out can be one of the most frustrating issues woodworkers encounter. Newton outlines several strategies to minimize it, starting with using the right type of blade. Crosscut blades are particularly effective at reducing tear-out due to their design. Additionally, employing a sacrificial fence can provide the necessary backing to prevent fibers from tearing out during the cut. 
Utilizing Blue Tape
Lastly, Newton shares a simple yet effective tip: using blue tape on the cut line can significantly reduce tear-out, especially on splinter-prone woods. For the best results, he emphasizes the importance of applying tape to both sides of the workpiece to maintain flatness. 
From blade maintenance to setup and alignment, these tips can help woodworkers of all levels achieve better results in their projects. With a little attention to detail and the right techniques, anyone can enhance their woodworking skills.