This video was created by Jodee from Inspire Woodcraft. It demonstrates a reliable and efficient technique for finding the center of wood stock—especially useful when cutting accurate half lap joints.
Instead of overcomplicating the process with measuring tools or guesswork, Jodee shares a method that uses simple setup and geometry to achieve clean, centered cuts. It’s a great tip to add to your joinery workflow, especially if you’re looking for speed and accuracy in your builds.
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Why Centering Matters in Joinery
Clean joinery depends on precise layout and execution, and nowhere is that more evident than in half lap joints. These joints are common in frame building and structural woodworking because of their ease and strength.
But to get a proper fit, you need both pieces to meet exactly in the middle. If your cut is even slightly off-center, the joint won’t sit flush and can weaken the structure or throw off your alignment.
Common Center-Finding Methods
Many woodworkers use calipers or rulers to find the middle of a board. They measure the total thickness, divide by two, and mark a centerline. While this works in theory, it’s prone to error if your measurements or markings are even slightly off.
Another method involves using a table saw at a 45-degree angle to estimate center. You cut one side, flip the board, and cut the other. But this often involves tedious adjustments if the cuts aren’t perfectly balanced. Going even slightly too far means you have to start again or overcorrect with sanding.
These traditional methods aren’t wrong—but they require careful setup and often waste time or material when things don’t go exactly as planned.
Jodee’s Foolproof Technique
Jodee’s approach simplifies everything and eliminates the need for measurements. The technique relies on using a scrap piece of the same thickness and a smart table saw setup.
Here’s a breakdown of the process:
Initial Setup
Start by placing your miter gauge on the right side of your table saw blade. Use a spring clamp to attach a stop block to the gauge, creating a repeatable cut position.
Take a scrap piece of your work material—the same thickness as what you’ll use for your final joint. This will serve as your test piece for establishing center.
Cutting the Scrap
Tilt the saw blade to 45 degrees. With the scrap piece against the stop block, make the first cut along the bottom face. Then, flip the board over and make the same angled cut on the opposite face.
This creates a V-notch across the center of the board. Where the two 45-degree cuts meet marks the exact center of your material, regardless of its thickness.
Squaring the Blade and Setting Final Cuts
Next, return the saw blade to 90 degrees. Adjust the fence or miter gauge so that the saw blade aligns perfectly with the center mark created by your angled cuts.
Double-check that the tooth of the blade is centered in the notch—not just the body of the blade. Lock it in place once you’re aligned, and proceed to cut your actual workpieces for the half lap joint.
Why This Method Works So Well
By removing the need to calculate or measure, this technique minimizes risk. You’re relying on geometry and repeatable setup rather than visual estimation or measuring tools that may vary.
Any tiny variations can be cleaned up with a hand plane or light sanding, and the overall fit tends to be more reliable than cuts made using manual layout.
It’s also quick—once you’ve done it a few times, it becomes second nature. Jodee’s method is especially helpful when batch-cutting multiple joints, where consistency matters most.
Pro Tips for Better Half Laps
Jodee also shares a few general tips for improving your joinery:
- Use quality material: Warped or uneven stock can throw off even the most accurate cuts. Stick with straight, stable pieces when working on joints.
- Keep blades sharp: A dull blade leads to tear-out and inaccuracies. Make sure your saw is clean and sharp before starting.
- Practice on scraps: Before committing to your final cut, do a test run on similar material. This confirms your setup and lets you make any adjustments.
- Take your time: Setup is more important than speed. Being careful at the beginning will save time later on fixing mistakes.
A Must-Know Technique for Woodworkers
This center-finding method is a practical and efficient way to improve your joinery, especially if you regularly use half lap joints. Whether you’re working on frames, cabinetry, or structural elements, it’s a trick worth adding to your skillset.
Jodee’s teaching style is clear and methodical, and his videos offer practical advice that works in real-world shops. If you’re trying to increase your accuracy and efficiency, this is a tip you’ll find yourself using again and again.
Support Jodee by visiting his online store here: https://inspirewoodcraft.com/collections/all.