Table saws are the beasts of the woodworking shop. They do a lot of “heavy lifting” in breaking down large pieces of wood and plywood of various dimensions. They are also a source of danger to the woodworker who is …
My house is 130 years old, and the “cellar” is a dirt floor with original stone walls. I’m 6’1″, and have to stay low as there is only about 5 feet of space height. After tripping a breaker as I …
Linseed oil is a staple in woodworking, enhancing wood’s natural beauty and durability. Yet, its use comes with a significant fire hazard if the oil-soaked rags are not disposed of properly. These rags can spontaneously combust, posing a serious risk …
We were discussing finishes the other day with a friend, a fellow woodworking hobbyist, and in particular, our current preferences. We talked about stains and topcoats and such, finish products we’ve both used in the past, and we found we’d …
Polyurethane is a common choice for finishing wood flooring and furniture, providing a hard, clear coating that safeguards against moisture and scratches. However, polyurethane’s drawback is its strong odor during application and drying. This odor is primarily due to VOCs …
Take a guess how much polyurethane is produced every year. Go ahead, guess. Here’s a hint: it’s a commodity product, meaning it is produced in huge quantities each year. If you guessed 25M metric tons every year, you are either …
SawStop, renowned for its advanced table and cabinet saws, has transformed the safety standards of power tools with its patented safety system. This innovation prioritizes user safety, ensuring protection against potential mishaps. We’ve extensively covered SawStop in previous articles, discussing …
Do you remember the first time you hammered your thumb? I do. It hurt like heck, and it was a long time before the normal pink flesh color returned to it, and the nail wasn’t threatening to fall off. At …
In woodworking, the safety of finishes on wood surfaces is a concern. I understand the significance of using products that are not only effective but also safe for you and your family. Whether you’re finishing a dining table, a kitchen …
Safety first is always the rule in our woodworking shop. We want to preserve all ten digits, the flesh on our forearms, and our pretty faces. Safety first also applies to the tools we use. We’ve invested good money in …
Power tools are dangerous, and extreme caution is required when operating them. Even the smallest and simplest power tool can draw blood if you aren’t careful, and that is to be avoided. I remember so clearly Mr. Davis’s accident in …
Ever found yourself with a 7″ saw blade and a 7 1/4″ circular saw, wondering if they’re a match? It’s a common dilemma for many woodworking enthusiasts. Whether you’re dealing with a worn-out blade or simply have a spare 7″ …
Amaranth, more commonly known as purple heart (sometimes written as one-word purpleheart), is a particularly beautiful wood among exotic woods. It grows natively in the countries between Mexico and Brazil. The characteristics that set it apart from other exotic woods …
Polyurethane is a popular wood finish for woodworkers. It provides durability and enhances the look of wood. However, there are concerns about whether polyurethane is safe for kitchen surfaces and cutting boards. We will compare oil-based versus water-based polyurethane wood …
In woodworking, we often use power tools like the circular saw. But what if your saw suddenly stops? Maybe the blade gets stuck, or the battery runs low. This article will help you understand why this happens and how to …
I clenched my teeth, recalling the table saw kickback that sent my beautiful oak cutting board careening wildly across the shop, leaving a gaping divot behind. Stick with me before you end up ducking behind machinery to dodge wayward wood …
We all know a table saw has a blade. Duh? The home woodworking enthusiast also knows the blade turns toward you as you push the wood through it for your cut. But just as that branch will close in on …