Simple Jigs to Maximize Your Planer’s Potential

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The video “Easy Money Saving Jigs more people should see” is by Izzy Swan. In this engaging video, Izzy introduces viewers to innovative jigs that can help eliminate the need for a joiner in woodworking projects.

Exploring the Oliver 13-Inch Helical Head Planer

Izzy begins by discussing the new features of the Oliver 13-inch helical head planer. This model boasts a variable speed option, which is particularly beneficial when working with wider hardwoods, allowing for a quality cut without overtaxing the motor. The machine includes a wixie caliper, plunge measurement for material removal, and pre-calibrated depth stops ranging from 3/4 inch to 5/30 seconds.

Oliver 13-inch helical head planer features

Izzy appreciates the improvements made to the planer, noting the transition from plastic to steel components and the addition of handholds for easier movement. The effective dust collection system also receives praise, especially when used with a 4-inch dust collector.

Building Simple Jigs

Before diving into the jig construction, Izzy emphasizes the ease of building these jigs. With basic tools like plywood, a circular saw, and a drill, anyone can create them without hassle. He humorously contrasts the simplicity of the jigs with the complexity of the CNC machine used for cutting them out.

CNC machine cutting jigs

Jointer Jig

Izzy starts with the jointer jig, which consists of a base plate, a tower, and four braces. He stresses the importance of keeping everything square during assembly. After gluing and screwing the braces in place, he allows the glue to set before fully fastening everything to maintain the jig’s accuracy.

Assembling the jointer jig

Surfacing Jig

Next, he assembles the surfacing jig, which is a 12.5-inch wide and 47-inch long piece of plywood featuring multiple holes. This jig allows for stabilizing workpieces using dowels and wedges, creating a secure setup for running through the planer.

Using dowels and wedges to stabilize the workpiece

Izzy demonstrates the jig’s functionality by clamping a board in place and running it through the planer, achieving a perfectly flat surface. He emphasizes the importance of taking small passes, especially with hardwoods, to avoid overworking the machine.

Running the board through the planer for a flat surface

Tips for Efficient Use

Throughout the demonstration, Izzy shares practical tips for using the jigs effectively. He suggests keeping the board under 5.5 inches wide when using the jointer setup to ensure smooth operation. The jigs not only create flat surfaces but also provide beautiful 90-degree edges ready for gluing.

Creating 90-degree edges with the jointer jig

Final Thoughts and Future Innovations

Izzy concludes by expressing his excitement for the Oliver planer and the jigs he built, hinting at future videos where he will explore additional functionalities of the jointer sled. He encourages viewers to subscribe for more jig builds and tool reviews, ensuring they stay updated on his woodworking adventures.

Izzy Swan encouraging viewers to subscribe for more content

With Izzy’s clear instructions and helpful tips, woodworkers of all skill levels can enhance their workshop’s efficiency and potentially save money by eliminating the need for a joiner. His friendly and informative approach makes it easy for anyone to follow along and create their own jigs.

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