What Is Planer Snipe? (And How To Stop It)

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Matt Hagens

Snipe hunting is an old joke, a fool’s errand considered to be a practical joke.  Those of our generation remember it, but you younger woodworkers may not.  It’s been around for a long time, and the first suggestion of it …

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32 Clever Woodworking Handy Hints

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Matt Hagens

Woodworking can feel overwhelming when you’re just starting out, but the right tips and tricks can make all the difference in your projects. Whether you’re building your first bookshelf or tackling a complex cabinet, having clever shortcuts and proven techniques …

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15 Common Pocket Hole Mistakes To Avoid

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Matt Hagens

Did you know that a simple error in pocket hole joinery can compromise the entire integrity of your woodworking project? I will show you how to avoid and identify the most common pocket hole mistakes, ensuring your projects are visually …

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What Does the “d” in Nail Sizes Mean?

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Matt Hagens

If you’ve ever looked at a box of nails and wondered what “16d” or “8d” means, you’re not alone. The “d” size label shows up in nearly every hardware store and building plan, but it’s not always clear what it …

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Why Does Wood Glue Fail or Not Hold?

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Matt Hagens

Nothing is more frustrating than watching a joint I thought was solid come apart. Weak glue bonds can leave gaps, cause pieces to shift, or even ruin an entire project. Over the years, I’ve learned that most wood glue failures …

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How to Stop Burn Marks on the Table Saw

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Matt Hagens

When I first saw scorch marks and smelled burning wood on my cuts, I knew something was wrong. Table saw burning happens when friction builds up between the blade and the wood. The main culprits are usually dull or dirty …

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13 Dangerous Table Saw Habits to Break Now

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Matt Hagens

The table saw is often considered the heart of the woodworking shop. It’s incredibly powerful and precise – but also one of the most dangerous tools. Every year, more than 60,000 injuries are linked to table saws, including lacerations, amputations, …

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How to Prevent Tear-Out on Your Table Saw

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Matt Hagens

Nothing ruins a woodworking project faster than tear-out. Those rough, splintered edges can turn what should be a clean cut into a frustrating setback, often requiring extra sanding or even scrapping the piece. The key to preventing tear-out is supporting …

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Throw Out Your Thin-Rip Jig. Do THIS Instead

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Matt Hagens

This method was developed and shared by Jodee from Inspire Woodcraft. It’s a practical approach to thin-rip cuts that avoids the usual frustrations of jigs and fence adjustments. Instead of relying on traditional thin-rip jigs, Jodee shows how a simple …

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