This project was built and designed by Jodee from Inspire Woodcraft.
Jodee upgrades a Jet JJ-6HHBT benchtop jointer by adding a simple base and infeed/outfeed extensions to better handle longer boards. The build focuses on practical shop solutions—sturdy knockdown furniture, phenolic extension tops, and careful alignment—rather than replacing the machine.
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Design
The base is a straightforward, repeatable shop-furniture layout that keeps future changes in mind. Jodee builds a knockdown stand from simple leg and apron assemblies with a lower shelf and a screwed-on top so the unit can be disassembled or repurposed later.
Keeping the design simple emphasizes stability without overbuilding for a benchtop machine. This approach balances functionality with the flexibility to upgrade to a larger jointer down the road.
Table Extensions
To extend the infeed and outfeed, Jodee uses phenolic plywood for a smooth, durable surface that resists wear and glue. The extension pieces are cut to match the factory table angles so they sit flush and support longer boards through the cut.
Rather than offering a step-by-step guide, the video highlights the importance of measuring and matching angles carefully and using material that slides well against stock tables. Choosing a stable top like phenolic reduces friction and improves feed consistency.
Mounting and Alignment
Alignment is handled with a simple drilling jig and careful clamping, plus the use of 1-2-3 blocks and the fence as a straightedge. Jodee pre-drills bolt holes through the extensions and the factory table, then enlarges them slightly for a little adjustment room so the pieces can be dialed in.
The project underscores two shop habits: use a guide when drilling repeatable holes and allow modest adjustability in bolt holes to make fine alignment easier. These small planning steps reduce frustration during final assembly.
Shaping and Fit
To give the extensions a more professional look, Jodee tapers the support braces and planes their tops to remove machine marks and ensure a clean mating surface. Clamping blocks and a jointer are used to get the tops perfectly straight before fastening.
Fastening techniques are also emphasized: pre-drilling plywood, cutting a thin countersink layer for clean screw heads, and using clamps and double-sided tape where needed. These practices prevent ply separation and produce a smoother final fit.
Lessons Learned and Practical Takeaways
The biggest challenges are patience and incremental adjustment; getting both sides dialed in took back-and-forth tweaking. Jodee demonstrates that precise alignment, rather than exotic tools, is what makes small machine upgrades successful.
There is a small amount of flex at the outermost ends of the extensions, but it’s negligible in normal use and a huge improvement over having no support. The project shows how modest shop-made additions can significantly improve workflow without buying a larger machine.
Support Jodee by visiting his online store here: https://inspirewoodcraft.com/collections/all.