This month we're talking about the various species of Oak.  A traditional favorite for woodworkers all over the world and apparently a real favorite of navies world wide too!

Strong and beautiful, Oak is a great choice for projects of all shapes and sizes!

Thanks to the great folks at Highland Woodworking, home of the mornings at highland free educational series, for donating another customized Woodslicer Resaw Bandsaw blade to this week's lucky schwag winner.  If your name's not Herman V.  then you're not this week's schwag winner, but that doesn't mean you can't get your own great Woodslicer Blade for your bandsaw, just click on the picture!

 

If you haven't gotten your name in for the schwag, well it's too late for this week but not for upcoming episodes.  Drop me a line at mattsbasementworkshop@gmail.com

Download Episode

 

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As we approach the holiday season, its time to think about the truly important things in life. Things like your gift list! Matt and Marc each discuss their top 5 most wanted tools. Price and shop size were not a consideration. These are dream lists. So if you have a dream list of your own, give us a call at 623-242-2450 and tell us about it. We will play them on the show next week.

We also read a few emails as well. Luis had a question about the many different types of glue on the market. Mark asked for information on cleaning, restoring and identifying old hand tools. He also recommends checking out the Internet Archive for old woodworking texts. And finally, Mike needs some advice on gluing up miters for a recipe box.

This is part 2 of the discussion of the shoulder plane.  Today I try to explain in my own special way how to use it correctly.

Questions, comments and schwag entries -  mattsbasementworkshop@gmail.com

I'm back from my Thanksgiving vacation...if you can call it that?!?!? The traveling, the family, the traveling...anyways once the veil from the turkey coma wore off it was time to get back to work and I couldn't help but think that talking about one of my favorite speciality planes was in order.

The shoulder plane is an essential part of my workshop, it does only one job but it does it so well that it makes quick work of fixing up my not so perfect joinery.  Sometimes a not so easy task depending on my state of mind.

I highly recommend that if you're interested in finding out more about hand planes a great resource to check out is Garret Hack's 'The Handplane Book'

Also, a huge congrats to www.lumberjocks.com for hitting the 2000+ membership mark!

This week's feature friday is a special version of our normal DVD review.  We had a chance to preview a great new title from Hendrik Varju "Jointer and Planer Secrets."  And what makes today's episode so unique is that not only are we going to talk about the DVD, but we have an interview with the host too. 

Hendrik Varju, an accomplished woodworker, author, teacher and now DVD producer and host has created this great DVD that doesn't just highlight the proper use of both the jointer and the thickness planer.  But instead walk you through everything you need to know to get the best results from them everytime you turn them on.

This 2 DVD set comes in at 4 1/2 hours, but just as the extended title suggests it's a "Private Woodworking Instruction in a Box" it's as if you're actually in Hendrik's shop taking a course with him.  There's no cut and paste editing here, everything is real time and the camera angles are in the right spot to make sure you don't miss a thing.

Along with the discussion on proper jointer and planer techniques there's an included bonus footage covering edge-gluing a solid wood panel.  This DVD is a great buy and for anyone wanting to know more about the two most important tools for making your stock square and flat it's well worth the look.  Check it out at www.passionforwood.com

Congrats to Troy Jack for winning a copy of "Jointer and Planer Secrets".  If you haven't gotten your name in yet for the free schwag drawings drop me a line at mattsbasementworkshop@gmail.com .  Also don't forget I'll be at the Saginaw Woodcraft on Saturday November 24th at 2PM for a carving workshop...I won't be teaching but it sounds fun...stop by and say HI!

Rough dimensioning is an important part of my milling process.  By roughing out oversized pieces I find that the milling process goes a little bit smoother.  Rather than dealing with large unwieldy boards I can mill smaller more managable pieces. 

This also gives me flatter, more stable stock and better results in the end.

So this weekend I went to a local woodshow and had a chance to listen to John Wilson, Shaker box builder and Boat Builder, etc was speaking.  The first lecture was a demonstration of building a paddle using construction lumber...pretty interesting I must admit!  The second was a talk on building and using a solar kiln to dry lumber.  I got some great insight into not only drying my own lumber, but more importantly a bigger understanding of wood movement.

So let's start another discussion on rough dimensioning our stock when we begin working on our projects.  It's a previously discussed topic, but wood movement can make or break your projects!!

To check out information on classes and lectures given by John, not to mention purchasing shaker box supplies, head over to www.shakerovalbox.com

Thanks to longtime listener Wayne Breshears we have a great tutorial on making our own zero clearance tablesaw inserts.  For both safety and accuracy reasons zero clearance inserts are a great accessory to just about any tablesaw.  And with the detailed and easy to follow plans that Wayne took the time to put together for us, making one for your saw is only a click away!!

This weekend in Grand Rapids, Michigan my favorite lumber supplier and woodworker's supply store is having a woodshow.  I'm planning on attending saturday the 10th so if you're there when I'm walking around say HI!  www.theworkbench.com for directions and info.

Congrats to this week's winner of free schwag Dennis Ewing, Sr. and also a big thanks to Wayne for sending in the plans.  For both of you, I have a pair of ZEM hearing protection waiting for you to claim. 

If you have a jig of the month that you'd like to share, send it to me at mattsbasementworkshop@gmail.com and if I use it on the show, I'll send you some great schwag too!!

Remember, my description of Wayne's jig on the show isn't always the best, so that's why I've posted it as a downloadable file...just click here to get your copy if you haven't already!

Long time listener Wayne Breshears sent in a great jig idea back in July, but I'm finally getting around to sharing it with the rest of you.  This PDF is a full tutorial on making your own zero clearance tablesaw insert for your own tablesaw.

Thanks Wayne for the great detail and making it look so easy!!

I wanted to wrap up the discussion on benchtop jointers with some ideas on how to overcome it's shortcomings.

Is it possible to lengthen the shorter infeed/outfeed tables of the BT Jointer?  How about the small fence?  I say why not...

Enter for schwag or just say "HI" at mattsbasementworkshop@gmail.com

The benchtop jointer is one of those tools that most of us have trouble believing could really be of any use.  They're too small, too unreliable and too underpowered...  and that's just the beginning of what many woodworkers believe is wrong with them.

Just to be completely honest, I've never owned one or used one myself.  And I too believed all the above ideas.  But the truth is, benchtop jointers can be just the right thing for your shop and work just right for you too.

Thanks for all the emails and keep the feedback coming  in ... mattsbasementworkshop@gmail.com

It's time once again for "Router Bit of the Month" from Woodcraft and Whiteside Machine Co.

This month we're featuring Whiteside's Glue Joint Bit, a great edge profile that's an improvement over the traditional butt joint.  This single bit creates mating profiles that greatly increase the gluing surface and  assist in easy glue ups of multiple pieces.

Congrats to Frank Bylo, this month's winner of the Router Bit of the Month at Matt's Basement Workshop Podcast. 

If you didn't win but are interested in taking advantage of the discounted price on the Glue Joint Bit over at Woodcraft.com - Click Here it's only for the month of November so get yours while you still can.

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Can you believe it's November already?  That means a couple of things, 1)  Turkey day is only a few weeks away and 2) with it being a new month it's time once again for "Router Bit of the Month" from Woodcraft and Whiteside Machine Co.

This month we're featuring Whiteside's Glue Joint Bit, a great edge profile that's an improvement over the traditional butt joint.  This single bit creates mating profiles that greatly increase the gluing surface and  assist in easy glue ups of multiple pieces.

Congrats to Frank Bylo, this month's winner of the Router Bit of the Month at Matt's Basement Workshop Podcast. 

If you didn't win but are interested in taking advantage of the discounted price on the Glue Joint Bit over at Woodcraft.com - Click Here it's only for the month of November so get yours while you still can.

A while back I received some voice mails from some apparent listeners of the show.  They were a little unusual to say the least, but who am I to say no to a listener with a question.

So sit back and enjoy this Halloween Special, I know I had some fun putting it togther and I hope you have fun listening.

Don't forget to get your name in for the schwag drawing this friday, if you haven't entered yet just drop me a line at mattsbasementworkshop@gmail.com  Remember one entry is all it takes and your name stays in until either you win or I run out of schwag!!

I received an email not so long ago from a listener who recently purchased a Biesemeyer Rip Fence off of Craigslist.  Not sure if it would work with his current table saw, he asked if I had any ideas how to modify it to fit.  Happens to be that my old saw needed modifications so my aftermarket fence would work.

This video shows some of the changes I made so that it would work on my saw.

 

Thanks to the great folks at Lie-Nielsen Toolworks we have another great title to review and for one of you lucky listeners one of you are going to win it for your very own.

"Building Furniture with Hand Planes" is a must have DVD for anyone who wants to learn more about how and where to use their hand planes in the construction of their own furniture.

Christopher Schwarz does an amazing job of explaining all the in's and out's of which ones to choose, how to use them and then demonstrates it all.

There's so much in here that you'll discover something new everytime you watch it.

Didn't win?  Click on the picture to buy yours!

 

The discussion of benchtop drill presses turns today to the proper usage of them.  And we also try to give a brief description of a few of the many accessory items that you can get and use with the presses.

Of course after the show was recorded I realized I forgot to mention perhaps one of the most popular accessory items used with the drill press...sanding drums!

Don't forget to drop me a line to say hi! mattsbasementworkshop@gmail.com

Is the drill press an essential tool in the woodshop?  Some say yes, some say no but I'll leave that up to you to decide if it's important enough to have one in your shop.

The key advantages that I've found in using mine is that I can make nearly dead on accurate holes, at the same depth and with the help of a jig in the same location time and time again.

Whether it's an benchtop or a floor model the anatomy of the press is the same, so let's start there.

On a seperate note, I'd love to hear from all of you, just to know how many of you are out there...just drop me a line and simply say "Hi" mattsbasementworkshop@gmail.com

With all the instructional DVDs on the market, wouldn't it be great if there was a video store or sevice that you could rent from so that you could decide just how helpful they really are?  Or better yet perhaps you've always been curious about a new hobby and just didn't know where to turn.

Well there is such a service out there, its called Smartflix.com.  Now you can now checkout great titles on your computer.  Have them sent directly to you, watch them at your convience and then return them in a prepaid envelope.

With over 5500 video titles covering over 220 categories you're sure to find something that peaks your interest and with new titles arriving regularly you'll have a chance to check out the latest titles as they become available.

Congrats to Trey for winning a free gift certificate to Smartflix.com for 5 free rentals.  If you haven't gotten your name in for free schwag yet, then just drop me a line at mattsbasementworkshop@gmail.com . 

Also, if you want to help me get a feel for how many of you there really are just send me an email at mattsbasementworkshop@gmail.com , just say "HI".

It's time to share some of the great emails and comments that have come in to the show regarding the benchtop tools.  As always your feedback is very important to help keep the show going and so by sharing these it's just another way to learn from each other.

 

Today we're even closer to wrapping up our discussion of benchtop thickness planers.  Of course we have to talk about the versatility of the planers.  They can do more than just give us evenly dimensioned lumber, they can also be used to....

It's time for the most popular Feature Friday here at MBW that's right it's time for 'router bit of the month'!!! 

Thanks again to the great folks over at WoodCraft and Whiteside Machine Co. for giving us the opportunity to try out this month's specially priced router bit, Whiteside's 14 degree dovetail bit.

Remember, for the entire month of October, WoodCraft reduces the price of this great bit to make it more affordable for us to get our hands on it.  So if you aren't this week's winner at Matt's Basement Workshop Podcast, like Brian Burritt is, head over to your local neighborhood WoodCraft store or just click here... Woodcraft.com - Over 10,000 Woodworking Products. Shop Woodcraft Today.

 

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If you haven't gotten your name in for the drawings drop me a line at mattsbasementworkshop@gmail.com

It's time for the most popular Feature Friday here at MBW that's right it's time for 'router bit of the month'!!! 

Thanks again to the great folks over at WoodCraft and Whiteside Machine Co. for giving us the opportunity to try out this month's specially priced router bit, Whiteside's 14 degree dovetail bit.

Remember, for the entire month of October, WoodCraft reduces the price of this great bit to make it more affordable for us to get our hands on it.  So if you aren't this week's winner at Matt's Basement Workshop Podcast, like Brian Burritt is, head over to your local neighborhood WoodCraft store or just click here... Woodcraft.com - Over 10,000 Woodworking Products. Shop Woodcraft Today.

If you haven't gotten your name in for the drawings drop me a line at mattsbasementworkshop@gmail.com

Last episode we talked about some of the features that are probably good choices to look for when choosing your benchtop planer.  This episode let's talk about putting our planer to work. 

There are some simple steps we should take to get the best results from our planer and they include...

Benchtop thickness planers are a huge tool with a little footprint.  These are a huge timesaver when it comes to dimensioning lumber flat and square and they also have the potential to be a money saver too. 

With all the models on the market there are a plenty to choose from, but there are some key features to look for along the way...

This month we're talking about a very popular lumber species used throughout furniture construction, flooring, turning, and so much more.  It comes either in a hard or soft variety, an uniquely figured or straight grained variety and can be a real challenge to cut if you're not use to it.

Guess which species I'm talking about?  If you haven't figured it out yet the species of the month is ... you'll have to listen to find out!

Our schwag winner this week has won a customized WoodSlicer Resaw Bandsaw blade from Highland Woodworking.  Perfect for resawing lumber with beautiful grains like those found in this month's lumber species.

If you're not this week's winner and you want to get one for your bandsaw just click here to order yours

If you haven't gotten your name in for the schwag, well it's too late for this week but not for upcoming episodes!

Let's look at some of the accessories that can be important to bandsaws, even the benchtops.  Today's discussion includes a review of blade types and fences.

If you haven't gotten your name in yet for the schwag giveaway on friday you've got a couple of days to do so.  Just drop me a line at mattsbasementworkshop@gmail.com and put your name in the coffee can.

Benchtop Bandsaws do have their place in the home woodshop, even though a larger floor model does have some huge advantages over it.  Just like with any of the other benchtop tools, sometimes the larger version is...well it's to large. 

Whether it's because you don't use it that often, or just can't give up the floor space a benchtop model maybe exactly what you're looking for.  Just do your homework ahead of time and be realistic of the limitations you'll be dealing with.

Interested in making Don Garner's Table Saw Taper Sled?  Just checkout this PDF.

Sorry it's late being posted!

A huge thanks to Don Garner of Don Garner Custom Woodworking for submitting this month's Jig of the Month at Matt's Basement Workshop Podcast. Don submitted another great jig previously, anyone remember the really excellent shelf pin jig from a while ago? Well that was a Don Garner jig and just like that one this one is also a great shop aid that you'll find very useful in your shop too.

This month's jig of the month is another version of a taper jig. Don's taper sled is an improvement over the other style of taper jig - the hinge style taper jig. Because of it's size and it's adjustable fence and clamping system, there's quite a bit more flexibility and accuracy when making tapered cuts. You'll find this especially true when it comes to making tapered cuts in what might be odd sized and odd shaped components.

The components to make this jig are also simple, (2) pieces of 3/4" plywood - (1) 7" wide base & (1) 4" wide adjustable fence. The length should be, at minimum, equal to the depth of your table saw top or preferably longer. I'd suggest up to 1-1/2 times the depth of the top. Next you'll need (3) carriage bolts to secure the fence tightly to the base and (2) toggle clamps to secure the component being tapered to the sled itself.

Once you have the taper sled built the cuts are a matter of making simple rip cuts on the table saw. Just lay the component so that the portion to be removed overlays the edge of the sled that runs along the saw blade, clamp it in place and push the sled through like you would any other ripping cut.

Just to make it easier, a PDF complete with pictures and step by step instructions will be posted in the podcast feed so that you can print it off and make this great jig when ever you get a chance.

Benchtop tools don't always fit so well on a benchtop.  And as so, whether it's a table saw or a drill press, there needs to be a stand that holds it the right way.

Table saws sometimes do come with their own stands, but it should never be the deciding factor over another saw that is a better fit for your shop or just a better quality.

Aftermarket stands are all over the place, just do a simple internet search and I guarantee you'll find a few.  From simple roll around stands to stands that will increase the overall table size and even upgrade the fence quality...

Keep the comments, questions and feedback coming in!!!  Don't forget to take the listener survey if you haven't already and especially don't forget to get your name in for the schwag drawings!

So we can't talk about table saws without talking about accessories too.  Afterall there's more to a good saw than just the motor and the rip fence, although they are important! 

But still when I'm looking at the various models there are all sorts of things to keep in mind and to be lusted after!  Here are a few that catch my eye...let me know what catches yours.

We're back again this month with the latest installment of Router bit of the month from Woodcraft and Whiteside Manufacturing.  For the month of September the featured router bit is a tongue and groove bit.  This single bit features two cutters sandwiching a bearing that allows you to quickly and easily feed stock through and cut the tongue in a single pass and then with very little effort you can lower the bit to cut the corresponding groove also in a single pass.

Click To Play

The Tongue and Groove bit is a carbide tipped, 1/2" shank bit that comes in at 1-5/8" wide, so this should only be used in a router table NEVER FREEHAND!!  The tongue that it cuts in a single pass is 3/8" deep and 1/4" thick, and it leaves a nice clean shoulder so there's little to no touchup you need to do when it comes to assemble the corresponding pieces.  For more about tongue and groove joinery check out my video on it from back in September of 2006.

 

Congratulations to our two winners this week...yes I said two!!  Linda Welsh is our winner of the Tongue and Groove bit and Bud Millis won a set of Brass Height Gages, both schwag items thanks to White Side and WoodCraft!

If you didn't win, but you're interested in taking advantage of the great discounted price for the month of September click here Woodcraft.com

We're back again this month with the latest installment of Router bit of the month from Woodcraft and Whiteside Manufacturing.  For the month of September the featured router bit, which can be found either at the online catalog store or at most stores near you, is a tongue and groove bit.  This single bit features two cutters sandwiching a bearing that allows you to quickly and easily feed stock through and cut the tongue in a single pass and then with very little effort you can lower the bit to cut the corresponding groove also in a single pass.

The Tongue and Groove bit is a carbide tipped, 1/2" shank bit that comes in at 1-5/8" wide, so this should only be used in a router table NEVER FREEHAND!!  The tongue that it cuts in a single pass is 3/8" deep and 1/4" thick, and it leaves a nice clean shoulder so there's little to no touchup you need to do when it comes to assemble the corresponding pieces.  For more about tongue and groove joinery check out my video on it from back in September of 2006. 

Congratulations to our two winners this week...yes I said two!!  Linda Welsh is our winner of the Tongue and Groove bit and Bud Millis won a set of Brass Height Gages, both schwag items thanks to White Side and WoodCraft!

If you didn't win, but you're interested in taking advantage of the great discounted price for the month of September click here Woodcraft.com

When I think of benchtop tools I can't help but think of my first table saw, a Powertech 10" Table Saw.  Although I was able to do alot with it and enjoyed the experiences I had, it opened my eyes to a few things I think you should pay attention to if a benchtop model is in your future.

This is the first part of a two part series.  Today is a discussion on what I consider to be the two most important features you need to look "at" when looking at a benchtop table saw.

Don't forget to take the survey if you haven't yet...PLEASE...and don't forget to get your name in for the free schwag drawing on Friday!!

Benchtop power tools have a lot of appeal to the home woodworker.  Their small size can be a very nice feature in a home workshop that's already tight on space.  Not to mention that the much lower price of a benchtop tool in comparison to its larger and far more expensive cousins is also a huge part of their popularity.

But do benchtop tools have the ability to perform like the larger versions?  Or are they just way too underpowered and outgunned when it comes to accessories and features?

Another thought that comes to mind with benchtop tools is whether or not they have their place in the building of decent furniture for your family and maybe even if you're lucky enough, the occassional paying customer. 

DON'T FORGET TO GET YOUR NAME IN FOR FREE SCHWAG, AND PLEASE DON'T FORGET TO TAKE THE SURVEY IF YOU HAVEN'T ALREADY!!!

The great folks over at Lie-Nielsen were very generous and gave me a chance to check out some their DVD titles.  These are excellent instructional DVDs from some of the best woodworking instructors out there.

Today's DVD review is for Christopher Schwartz's "Coarse, Medium & Fine".  For anyone who thinks that hand tools are slow, inefficient and hard to use, after watching this video you'll start second guessing your mistaken beliefs.

Chris explains throughout the DVD that the most important thing to understand about using handtools is understanding what each one does, and then let it do that job and that job alone. 

Want to learn more or even order your own DVD or just check out more of the available titles, click here:

Just tell them that Matt's Basement Workshop sent ya!! 

 

Dan from Idaho dropped me a line just before the start of my little hiatus from the show. He had a great question regarding a feature that's frequently found on older hand planes. What's the significance of the corrugated bottoms? I'm sure you've seen them too and if you aren't familiar with their purpose or lack of purpose than hopefully I'll shed a little light on the situation with today's episode.

As usual, there's plenty of tangents for everyone to enjoy (or not). "Thank You" to all of you who have taken the survey so far, if you haven't yet...please...please take just a moment out and answer the couple of questions you'll find there. Also don't forget to get your name in for the free schwag being given away on Feature Friday this week and every week.

Interested in finding out alot about hand planes? Check out "The Superior Works" www.supertool.com a website from Patrick Leach, the source of the great little story towards the end of the show.

Keep the questions, comments and feedback rolling in!!

I'M BACK!!!!  Two weeks sure have flown by and it's time to get behind the mic again.  I hope this past two weeks have been as productive for you as they have been for me!  Finished a project and tried a couple of new things in the shop.

Today's episode is a bit of tying up of loose ends, sharing some ideas and all around tangents.  Remember, you can always reach me with any questions, comments or feedback (both complimentary and critical).

Please take the survey so I know which topics you're most interested in hearing about and for those of you interested in video only episodes I have a new feed for you to subscribe too.  Either subscribe through Feedburner using the link below or your favorite podcatcher software by adding this feed url http://mattsbasementworksh.blip.tv/rss/itunes

'Classic Joints with Power Tools' by Yeung Chan is what I consider to be a modern classic for the woodworking community.  Easy to follow with detailed pictures, illustrations and of course detailed descriptions written by one of today's best woodworking instructors this book is an essential for any woodshop.

From the most basic 'Butt Joint' to the complicated 'Three-way Mitered Mortise and Tenon Joint' Yeung Chan has made it easy to understand and reproduce using modern power tools that just about everyone is familiar with.

Purchase Your Copy at Woodcraft.

Available at Highland Woodworking Too!

Now that we learned a little something about the proper placement of butt hinges let's spend this episode talking about mortising them in place.  Regardless of whether you use power tools or hand tools the technique is very similar and believe it or not, with a little practice, a chisel and mallet will yield the same result in just about the same amount of time.

The traditional butt hinge is a mainstay in woodworking.  Their design can be very simple to very complex, but when it come to placement in the project it's very straightforward.  A few key design aspects to the proper placement of butt hinges include the following.

Golden Rule #1 - Equal distances from the top and bottom, no more than 3" in either direction.

Golden Rule #2 - The hinge pin should sit almost completely proud of the face frame.  Although having the pin at least 1/32" into the reveal gives it a nice look.

Golden Rule #3 - For frame and panel doors, placing hinges level with the bottom of the top rail and level with the top of the bottom rail will give a great look to the project.

 

The much awaited honing and sharpening video has finally arrived.  It's a matter of flattening the back and honing the bevel.  As you'll see I use waterstones, but I also mention the use of sandpaper too.  Just for reference here's a comparison of grits.  Coarse Stone 800 grit = Sand Paper 320-600, Medium Stone 1000/1200 = Sand Paper 800-1000, Fine Stone 4000 = Sand Paper 1500+.

Suggested Sharpening Supplies:

 

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It's Feature Friday again, my apologies for missing the last show on wednesday.  It's been one of those weeks!  We are giving away a WoodSlicer Bandsaw Blade from Highland Woodworking to one lucky listener.  If you're interested in purchasing a WoodSlicer Blade because you didn't win one...or you just really want one here's a quick link to help get you there.

If you haven't gotten your name in for the schwag, well it's too late for this week but not for upcoming episodes!

Just a little follow up and feedback regarding our earlier discussion about increasing the dust collection ability of our contractor saws and benchtop saws.  Also, we announce the winners of the summer awards at Lumberjocks.com.

We have the return of the most popular Feature Friday feature, "Router Bit of the Month"!  This month at WoodCraft the featured router bit from Whiteside Machine Co. is actually two router bits.  It's a rail and stile set for frame and panel door construction.  The two bits are complementary to each other and feature a nice bead profile that really helps to dress up your doors with or without a raised panel.  Easy to use and easy to set up this router set is a great compliment to any router bit collection.  Since we also missed the Router Bit of the Month for July, we have another bit to tryout and talk about.  Whiteside's large, 3-wing, ogee raised panel bit.  This is a huge bit, so extra precaution needs to be taken when using it.  Remember by visiting WoodCraft either online or at a location near you, you too can take advantage of the great price on these bits.  To order your's click here Bead Stile & Rail Door Set (2), Whiteside# 6003

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We have the return of the most popular Feature Friday feature, "Router Bit of the Month"!  This month at WoodCraft the featured router bit from Whiteside Machine Co. is actually two router bits.  It's a rail and stile set for frame and panel door construction.  The two bits are complementary to each other and feature a nice bead profile that really helps to dress up your doors with or without a raised panel.  Easy to use and easy to set up this router set is a great compliment to any router bit collection.  Since we also missed the Router Bit of the Month for July, we have another bit to try and talk about.  Whiteside's large, 3-wing, ogee raised panel bit.  This is a huge bit, so extra precaution needs to be taken when using it.  This is just the audio version, so the video(s) will be posted soon.  Remember by visiting WoodCraft either online or at a location near you, you too can take advantage of the great price on these bits.  To order your's click here Bead Stile & Rail Door Set (2), Whiteside# 6003

Gary wrote in with a couple of questions about frame and panel construction.  Hopefully I was able to answer his questions and yours.

This was great timing, as Feature Friday this week is actually a frame and panel set.

Visit John's website to set the World Record for the biggest Jigsaw Puzzle www.thebigjig.co.uk

Back in June a listener of the show had a question about improving the dust collection of a contractor tablesaw.  Older contractor saws and almost every benchtop saw I've seen are horrible at keeping the sawdust from coating everything in the shop, the house and our lungs.  Finding a way to enclose the bottom will decrease the amount of sawdust in the air dramatically.  Here are two photos of what I've done and tried to explain in the show.

check out John's bid for the world record jigsaw puzzle, help out if you can at www.thebigjig.co.uk

It's 'Jig of the Month' and thanks to Terry we've got a great one to talk about.  Terry has created a self centering router mortising jig.  Thanks to the ingenious use of a couple of roller blade bearings and a plexiglass base we can build a router mortising jig that will give you perfectly centered mortises time and time again.  Making this jig is really easy thanks to the PDF we have of Terry's directions and won't take much time at all.

Don't forget to get your name in for freebies like this week's winner did, just drop me a line at mattsbasementworkshop@gmail.com and mention schwag.

Downloadable PDF for Terry's Self Centering Router Mortise Jig.

Continuing our discussion of exterior finishes leads us to the next group of finishes.  Pigmented stains, both semi-transparent and opaque are excellent choices for getting the most protection from UV radiation damage.  In fact the more pigments present the greater the UV protection.  Speaking of pigments, paint is perhaps one of the best choices we can make for exterior projects. 

When you want to protect your project from the elements but you also want the natural beauty of the grain and color to show through, your best bet is to use a clear finish.  But which one?  Traditional drying oils, oil finishes that are a combination of drying oils, varnish and thinner, and then finally there are the varnishes.  Marine Varnishes are your best choice for lasting protection from physical damage, moisture protection and also from UV rays.

Thanks to the following sources for most of our information:  www.woodworking.org and also www.woodweb.com

 

It's Feature Friday and this week we have another website review.  I've talked about this website in previous episodes, just never in great detail.  WARNING - this website we're going to talk about is addictive!!  You can loose hours at the computer as a result.  The Woodworking Channel is a 24/7 network devoted to one thing...woodworking television programming.  Where else can you go at 3:00am on a tuesday night to watch a seasoned woodworker explaining how to make an amazing turned bowl, or catch an episode of The Router Workshop?  To find out more and to feed your addiction to woodworking check out www.thewoodworkingchannel.com

Have you been having trouble getting onto my website?  If www.mattsbasementworkshop.com is giving you trouble, try www.mattswoodshop.libsyn.com .  Don't forget to get your name in for the weekly schwag drawing, just like this week's winner Dave Powers!

 

I know everyone was expecting an episode on exterior finishes but as usual things at the day job didn't go as plan.  Turns out there's a lot of information I want to cover and it won't fit in one episode, so we'll pick it up on Monday.  Today we're cleaning house and have some great feedback on the use of epoxies and bronze screws in the boatbuilding trades thanks to a listener...Thanks Che!!

For information on epoxies check out www.westsystem.com

Regardless of which finish you choose to protect your outdoor projects or even if you choose to put a finish on them, there are three things that we need to keep in mind when deciding if and which finish to choose.  The first concern we have is protecting our projects from being damaged by too much moisture, the second concern is protection from insects like termites and ants and the third is protection from the damaging effects of UV radiation.

A new feature here at Matt's Basement Workshop - Wood Species of the Month.  To get us started with the new feature is a look at one of my early favorites, Pine.  Sure it's a softwood but that's all the more reason to enjoy it.  It's easy to work with both power and hand tools, it's inexpensive when compared to most hardwoods and it's readily available just about everywhere.  For a beginner, pine was an easy going wood that didn't make me cringe when things went wrong.  Now as a woodworker with a little experience under my belt pine is still a great looking wood with a lot of character.

Along with the new feature we have a new schwag giveaway.  Highland Woodworking is offering one lucky listener a month a chance to win a custom sized WoodSlicer Resaw Bandsaw Blade.  And the first lucky winner of this great prize is... you'll have to listen to find out if you're the lucky listener!!

It's very important to choose and use the right fasteners and hardware when constructing our outdoor projects.  Screws, nails and hinges that aren't protected from the elements will begin to breakdown, fail, and potentially ruin our projects.  Which metals are the best choices?  They include stainless steel, aluminum and... you'll have to listen to find out more!

The choice of adhesive for outdoor projects can make or break the final result.  Yellow glues labeled as "Water Resistant" and "Water Proof" are fine as long as you remember that "Resistant" isn't the same as "Proof", so don't go submerging "Resistant" under the water for long periods of time.  The next choice is polyurethane glues, which maybe a better choice given their longer open times and high water proof properties.  Next up is epoxies which may have the best characteristics since they are gap filling, which can help to fill voids that rot can build up in, and the fact that it's one of the favorites of the Marine industry also is a big giveaway to its effectiveness.

****FOLLOW UP****

Thanks to Blair at Highland Woodworking for providing some insight on the differences between Titebond II and Titebond III.  Turns out Titebond III isn't "water-proof" but a step up in the amount of  resistance in "water-resistant".  For more info check out this link: http://www.titebond.com/Download/pdf/TBIIIUltimateBrochureTB.pdf thanks Blair for the heads up!!

 

Since we've started talking about outdoor projects this book fits perfectly into the middle of our series.  "Easy to make outdoor structures" from Shady Oak Press is a really good book filled with the basics you need to get you started on your next outdoor project, or your first.  With a number of projects listed in the book, it's easy to find one that you could tackle in your own yard.  From an easy to build compost pen to an intricate garden gazebo, you're sure to find something here.

Speaking of outdoor projects remember that LumberJocks has their Summer Awards going on until July 31st.  Easy to enter and easy to win, head over to www.lumberjocks.com  

Want to help make Podcasting history?  Nominate Matt's Basement Workshop Podcast at the People's Choice Podcast Awards.  www.podcastawards.com nominate us before July 15th.

Not all lumber is the same, obviously!  And this statement is very true when it comes choosing lumber species for outdoor projects.  A few species that come to mind right away include cedar, redwood, cypress and mahogany.  Turns out there are quite a few more to choose from also!  The most important features we should be interested in a good outdoor lumber is one that needs little or no extra help in fighting off rot, bugs and all that mother nature has to throw at you...or the lumber.

Feature Friday is only a couple of days away, so get your name in for the drawing if you haven't already.

I'm back from a great two week rest.  Although, not much rest was gotten by me and my family during these independance day festivities around here.  But while I was away from the show I had a chance to do some thinking about some timely topics and ideas.  Given that the warm weather is full on here in the Northern Hemisphere spending more time in the great outdoors is on many of our minds.  So let's get the show started back up with a series of episodes discussing outdoor projects.  This first show is my look at some design ideas and suggestions for outdoor projects.  Don't forget to send feedback and suggestions and as always, questions too!

Here it is... the audio version of a great jig submitted by listener, Don Garner.  This is a fantastic shelf pin jig that's sure to be a major helper in your shop.

Thanks Don!  Also in case you missed it, I'll be taking the next couple of weeks off from the show.  With the summer well underway and the American Independance day just around the corner it's time for some rest and relaxation.  See you in July!!  But don't forget to keep those questions comments and suggestions rolling in!!

Check out this great jig for creating perfect shelf pin holes each and every time.

Wood Talk Online No.11 is now available.  More fun than should ever be allowed in a wood shop.  Show notes to follow soon ... but here's a link to the feed in case you want to listen ... Wood Talk Online No. 11

Are you familiar with European Hinges?  Do you know why they're so great to use?  Hope you enjoy...

As beginning woodworkers we may not always understand the differences between the choices we have for a project.  So in a continuation of the "on the road" series today we discuss what the differences are between an overlay and an inset opening are.

It's Feature Friday and this week we have a great website review.  Old Woodworking Machines.com is a great resource for anyone who owns, is thinking of owning or just is intrigued with Old, Vintage Woodworking Machinery.  Totally a members driven website, all the content is supplied by members.  And thanks to the hardworking webmaster and volunteer moderators all the information on the 1,913 known manufacturers of Woodworking machines (currently it's 1,913 but perhaps you have one you could add to the list) through the ages is easy to locate and find.  Membership is free but the opportunity to share your old equipment with others is priceless.  Check them out at www.owwm.com .  Congratulations to this week's winner of free schwag David Preutt!!

The second half of the frame and panel construction discussion, and also our second on the road show.  This is a closer look at the actual construction of the both the frame and the panel components.

 

This is the first of our "on the road" series of podcasts.  While on a recent, long car drive.  I took advantage of all the "think" time, to record some shows and ideas.  Today's show is a talk about the use of frame and panels in our projects.  Why, where and soon to come ... how.

Thanks for listening!

This month's 'Router Bit of the Month' is a flush trimming bit.  An essential and versatile router.  Thanks to the great folks at www.woodcraft.com and www.whitesiderouterbits.com for being so generous as to supply us a bit for a luck listener.

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It's that time again!  Time for Router Bit of the Month thanks to the fine folks at Woodcraft and Whiteside Machine Co.  This month's router bit is a flush trimming bit.  This is a two flute, carbide tipped, with a 1" cutting length router bit.  This is an essential router bit for everyone and this one being offered by Whiteside and Woodcraft stands up to whatever you can throw at it.

Just in case you can make it there's a great tool show and swap going on in Edwardsburg, Michigan this weekend.  For more information Click Here.  Also, LumberJocks.com has started their Summer Awards contest so stop by to find out more.

Thanks again to Woodcraft and Whiteside.  If you're not this week's winner but want to get the Flush Trimming bit, Click Here.

Well this first week back is going gang busters.  Thank you, to those of you who have sent in some show ideas and suggestions ... you know who you are so give yourself a huge pat on the back for helping out the show.  Jerry wrote in to ask if there are any hints to look out for so you know when it's time to resharpen your blades.  I know when my family thinks I'm getting dull ... they just leave the room.  But it's even easier to tell when your blades and bits are getting dull.  Take a listen and then drop me a line with your show topic suggestion and to enter the schwag drawings too.

It's been a little while since the last posting, but here it is finally.  I had a great week off and actually got back into the shop for a little more work on a project or two.  This got me to thinking about a few rules in the shop that I'ld like to share with you!!  Take them for what they're worth and feel free to send me yours!!

Don't forget to get your name in for the free schwag drawings!

Click on this link to go to the latest and greatest Wood Talk Online Wood Talk Online No.8 Enjoy!!!

An excellent resource for anyone looking to purchase their first mitersaw or upgrade an existing model.  From choosing which model will work best and why, to accessories, and  even a project or two.  Miter Saw Fundamentals is clearly written and has plenty of pictures, and diagrams for those of us who learn more when we see what we're reading.....

Thanks to Sterling Publishing for sending us this great title.  This week's schwag winner will be receiving a copy of Rick Peters' book so congratulations to Larry!!!  As a quick reminder if you haven't heard the show yet, I'm taking next week off so I'll be talking to you later.  Happy Memorial Day Weekend!!

Another episode without hand planes!!!  A further look at creating a rabbet joint using either the tablesaw or the router.

Since we've been discussing the use of the rabbetting plane, I think it's only right that it might be time for a little review of the rabbet joint in general.  The rabbet joint is easily constructed with either the router or a tablesaw.  In this first part we discuss the parts of the rabbet joint and also the types of rabbet joints....yes there's more than one!!

An improved miter gauge fence can make a huge difference in the outcome of your crosscuts.  This one is designed more for a tablesaw, the design can be easily adapted for a router table or bandsaw.

Do you have a jig you'ld like to share?  Send it to me, so we can share it with everyone.

An improved miter gauge fence can make a huge difference between a good crosscut and a not so good one.

Cutting cross grain rabbets with the rabbet plane.  This is the final wrap up to the rabbet plane discussion, I promise.

This was meant to be the last of the rabbeting plane talks but I babbled on for to long about cutting long grain rabbets.  Along with talking about setting up the blade and nicker and how to make correct cuts, this is a good start to the wrap up.

Don't forget to get your name in for free schwag or leave me an voicemail at the website.  Thanks for visiting!!

Here it is, another Wood Talk Online for your listening pleasure.  We've introduced a new feature where you can talk back to Marc and Matt, just leave us an voicemail at www.woodtalkonline.com .  So to hear the show click here Wood Talk Online No.7. Happy listening!!!

This is our first ever website review here at Matt's Basement Workshop Podcast.  Because so much information is available for woodworkers on the internet it's time we start taking a look at what's good and where to find it.  This first review we take a look at is www.woodbin.com a site full of great woodworking related software and references for everyone.

Don't forget to leave me a voice mail on the website by using mychingo.  All you need is a mic and computer, no software required.

Hey everyone, the lastest episode of Wood Talk Online is up and available for your listening pleasure!!  In case you're not already subscribed to the Wood Talk Online feed here is an easy link for you to download the new episode Wood Talk Online No.6

A few things I may have glossed over in the first episode and some ideas about tuning up the rabbet plane for it's best work.

Just as important as the body itself, both the nicker and the blade are very crucial for working properly.  Spending a little time tuning up these two parts can result in the best cuts you'll get.

Entered for the drawings yet?  If not drop me a line and let me know that you're interested.  Also don't forget to leave me a voice mail on the website if you get a chance.  You don't need any special software, just a mic.  Just click on the "leave Matt a voicemail" link at the top of the website.

The rabbet plane is a specialized plane used for creating both cross grain and long rabbets in stock.  Whether it's a metal bodied plane or a wooden bodied plane the anatomy of the rabbet plane is all the same.  The key to successful use is all about the "nicker".

Interested in checking out a Tool Tailgating Event?  Click on this link to view the PDF flyer with all the info. Tool Meet Flyer 2007

Welcome to the first ever episode of a new feature here at Matt's Basement Workshop Podcast, "Router Bit of the Month". Thanks to the great folks at Woodcraft and Whiteside Machine Co. we have the opportunity to not only try out one of their router bits, but for one lucky listener the opportunity to own this month's bit. Each month Woodcraft chooses a router bit from Whiteside Machine Co., perhaps one of the best router bit manufacturers to feature and offer to buyers at a significant discount over the regular price. Interested in buying one for yourself?  Take advantage of the great price at Woodcraft.com by clicking on this link.

Classical Pattern Bit

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OK here it is!!  The second half of the lapping series.  Using just sandpaper, a file and an old hand plane you can bring an "old, seen better days" tool from the past back into a usable condition today.

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Don't forget to enter your name for the free schwag drawings.

 

We've gone over the family of bench planes, so it's now time to move on to the family of speciality planes.  Where the bench planes are used for more general purposes, mainly milling of rough stock or putting a finished surface to a prepared board.  Speciality planes are very specific for the task they were intended to be used for.  Planes like the rabbett plane or the edge plane are intended for one use and one use only each, and they do their job extremely well.

Don't forget to get your name in for the free schwag drawings.  Drop me a line at mattsbasementworkshop@gmail.com .  And don't forget to check out the latest episode of Wood Talk Online!!!

Wood Talk Online Episode 5 is up and available for you to listen too.  Marc and Matt spend close to an hour talking about and answering the emails, you the listener, sent them.

Click here to download Wood Talk Online Episode 5

Woodworking is no sport, but just like with any activity to improve your woodworking skills nothing will help you more than a little practice.  Whether a hand tool or a power tool, the more time you spend using them the more it can make you an all around better woodworker.  Want to learn handcut dovetails?  Practice a side a day.  Want to improve you're veenering skills?  Veneer a small panel a day.  Practice makes perfect, not to mention it's a great excuse for time in the shop.

Our new monthly feature premieres with a review of a really great book on Bandsawn Boxes.  Donna Menke has put together a book that not only walks you through how to make the boxes between the covers, but sets you up so that you can make the boxes in your imagination.  With chapters covering tool choice and use to design and finishing techniques.  Donna has put together a complete book for both the beginner and the advanced woodworker alike.  The Ultimate Band Saw Box Book by Donna LaChance Menke.  www.sterlingpublishing.com

Congratulations to this week's winner of free schwag and the winner of this great book Michael Darling.  If you haven't entered your name into the drawings you still have time.  Send them to mattsbasementworkshop@gmail.com

Don't forget to check out the newest woodworking podcast on the block.  Erik over at The Novice Garage Woodworker at http://garagewoodworker.blogspot.com

Part 1 of a 2 part series on lapping our hand planes.  So perhaps you do have that hand plane you picked up at the flea market and now you want to use it.  Where do you start?  Start at the bottom and work your way up.  This 1st part is all about the equipment.  What do you need to get started?  Let's take a look!!!

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Who says you can't use both hand tools and power tools?  Here's just a little look at what can be done with both types.

Don't forget to get your name in for the 2007 Schwag Drawings!!!

So we've been talking about using hand planes for prepping and smoothing stock.  But how do we do it?  Hopefully this episode finally answers the question.  Or at least gets you started.

Crosscut sleds are a great jig for accurate and efficient cutting of wider and longer stock that traditional miter gauges may have trouble supporting.  This version I describe today is made up primarily of scraps of plywood and hardwood and can easily be built in a matter of minutes.

Also today's episode is the first drawing of 2007.  So congratulations to Bill Bradley for being our first winner of 2007.  Bill has won a pair of Zem hearing protection.  For more information on Zem check out their website at www.zemzone.com .  I use a pair of Zem in my shop and I hope Bill finds them just as great as I do.

If you haven't entered your name for the drawings, get it in.  The next drawing will be next friday so good luck.

A great jig that helps you to get accurate and successful crosscuts each and everytime on your tablesaw.  Especially great for use with wider and or longer stock.

The next part of our talk on the scrub plane.  The tips and techniques for using.  Small enough to hold with one hand and easy enough to use the same way.  As the hand plane version of the modern thickness planer, these little guys come in quite handy.

The first drawing is this friday April 20th, 2007.  Great books from Sterling Publishing and Zem hearing protection are up for grabs.  Just drop me a line and let me know you're interested in getting in the drawing.

 

The scrub plane, a member of the bench plane family that could easily fall into the family of specialized planes.  A single purpose plane that is equivalent to the modern day thickness planer.  Small in size but large in purpose.  Let's take a look at them today.  Don't forget to get those jigs in and especially don't forget to get your name in for the schwag.  The drawings start this week.  Also, you may have noticed the sound is a little off.  I just bought a new mic and I'm still making adjustments, please bear with me!!

2 ANNOUNCEMENTS:  The warm weather is just around the corner and as a result it's time to get outside and do some yardwork and such.  So starting this week I'm planning on doing only 3 shows a week.  I'm sure I'll occassionally do more but 3 for sure.  Thanks for your understanding, I just want to make sure that the shows I do for you are the best they can be.  Next, just a reminder, but Wood Talk Online Podcast has it's own feed and can be found at www.woodtalkonline.com

Thanks for listening, Matt

 

 

Let's take a closer look at the basic anatomy of the hand plane.  From the toe to the heel and the sole to the lever cap we'll take the plane apart for a closer look at what makes it work.

 

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Episode Number 2 of Wood Talk Online.  Marc and I once again had way to much fun with this show, so we hope you enjoy it.  A new website dedicated to Wood Talk Online is up and running thanks to Marc.  Check it out at www.woodtalkonline.com and from there you can also subscribe to the feed.  So enjoy!!

A great router table jig for safely and accurately cutting coped ends on rail pieces for face frames or door frames or what have you.  Thanks Wayne C. for sending this one in.

Don't forget to get your name in for the free schwag giveaways.  Books from Sterling Publishing and Zem hearing protection.

Suggestions for fine tuning of the smoothing planes.  A few ideas that go beyond the usual set up of the other bench planes.  And what would an episode be without a few tangents.  I've mentioned Garrett Hack's book "The Hand Plane Book" over and over.  It's a great resource for any hand plane user or collector.

Don't forget to get your name in for the free schwag drawings, books from Sterling Publishing and hearing protection from Senseguard www.zemzone.com .  Hopefully more to come later.

There are certain traits in the smoothing plane that makes the difference between a good smoothing plane and an excellent smoothing plane.        

1) Body weight   2) Throat opening  and 3) Blade assembly

Get your name in for the free schwag giveaways.  Books from Sterling Publishing and hearing protection from Senseguard www.zemzone.com  If you want to be included in the giveaway send me a note to mattsbasementworkshop@gmail.com

The group of smoothing planes consist of the small No.1 up to the larger No.4.   The most common version most people think of is the No.4, in fact I'm willing to bet that the No.4 is what most people think of when they hear the words Hand Plane.  Prior to the mass availability of sand paper, the smoothing planes were one of the tools craftsman used to prepare their projects for finishing.  It was the last tool to touch the surface.

Don't forget to get your name in for the free schwag drawings coming soon.  Not only do I have several great titles from Sterling Publishing, but I now also received a free pair of ZEM hearing protection from senseguard.  Even if you entered for the schwag back in 2006, resubmit for this new round of schwag.  Did you enjoy Wood Talk Online?  I know I did...emails for Wood Talk?  woodtalkonline@gmail.com  

Here it is, the first episode of Wood Talk Online featuring myself and Marc Spagnuolo.  We had a lot of fun doing this show, so we hope that you enjoy it also.  Don't forget if you have any questions, comments or suggestions for the new show send them to woodtalkonline@gmail.com

 

This week's Jig of the Week comes from our friend David.  A great little helper, this jig will aide you in making consistantly thicknessed thin ripping cuts with your tablesaw.  Not only will you be able to more accurately and consistantly make the same cuts, but you'll be able to do it safer.  And for the price of a few scraps from your scrap pile, who can beat that?  For the paper rulers mentioned in the show and the PDF go to http://www.vendian.org/mncharity/dir3/paper_rulers/ . 

Also don't forget about the new show featuring myself and Marc Spagnuolo called "Wood Talk Online".  To get questions to us for the new show drop us a line at woodtalkonline@gmail.com

And also last but not least don't forget to submit your idea for Jig of the Week at mattsbasementworkshop@gmail.com  or if you're interested in getting your name in for free schwag too.

The full PDF of the Thin Stock Ripping Jig sent to us by our friend David.

Here it is.  The first video in the hand plane series.  I know it's been awhile but I'm finally getting around to recording.  More are on the way!!!

Don't forget to prepare for the new joint feature with Marc Spagnuolo coming soon!  WOOD TALK ONLINE two guys talking shop.  Afterall two perspectives on a subject are sometimes better one.  If you have any questions or suggestions for Marc and Matt send them to woodtalkonline@gmail.com .

The much longer and much heavier cousins of the bench planes.  Single minded in their jobs they excell at creating a flat and square stock.  Whether truing an edge or flattening a face, the jointer planes are the must go to plane to get the job done.

BIG NEWS!!!! COMING SOON TO A PODCAST NEAR YOU!!!!

MARC SPAGNUOLO & MATT VANDERLIST ARE JOINING FORCES TO CREATE A NEW PODCAST. 

"WOOD TALK ONLINE" two guys talking shop.  This is your opportunity to ask us both a question and get two perspectives on it.  Send your emails for "WOOD TALK ONLINE" to woodtalkonline@gmail.com  This is a show that will appear on both Matt's Basement Workshop and also on The Wood Whisperer, so if you're already subscribed it'll be coming to you directly with no fuss.  So get those emails in soon so you can be one of the first questions to be answered.

A few thoughts about the Jack Plane.....

We've talked about the block plane before, but since we're talking hand planes even more it's time to revisit.  Even if you're an all power tool woodworker, I'm sure the block plane still has some use in your shop.

There's  more to hand planes then just the metal bodied versions we're most familiar with.  Hand planes can be easily classified into three families based on their use.

1)  Bench Planes - the work horses of the hand plane world.  As the name implies these are the ones most used on the bench by craftspeople.

2)  Joinery Planes - specialized planes for specialized joinery such as rabbets, dados, tenons, etc.

3)  Shaping/Moulding Planes - specialized planes for mouldings or decorative trims and edges.

Some suggestions for plane hunting.  A small over the shoulder pack with a reliably flat 12" steel rule, a machinests square, magnifying glass/jewler's loop and a pocket stanley price guide.
Use the 12" rule to check flatness of the sole or another tip for checking soles in an antique store is to carefully place the plane on top of a glass display case.  The plane should not rock. 
The Machinest's square is used to check to see if the sides are square to the sole.  Useful if you plan to use the plane for shooting.
Use the magnifying glass to read manufacture marks or to inspect something in detail.
The pocket price guide can be found at Lee Valley.

Thanks Wayne for the great tips.  Do you have a tip, comment, question or suggestion either email me at mattsbasementworkshop@gmail.com or you can Skype me at Matt's Basement Workshop Podcast or call 231 683-4082.

The cambered blade is essential to the use of the smoothing plane.  Unlike the square to side blades of the jointer or general use plane.  The smoothing plane needs to avoid any trace of the cutting action by the blade.  Cambering is fairly simple during the sharpening process.  It's literally a matter of finger pressure.

A new way to contact me is via Skype.  Skype me at Matt's Basement Workshop Podcast or call me at 231 683-4082.

The picture in the ID3 tag shows a cambered blade and a straight blade can you tell the difference?

Unlike most hand plane blades where a square cutting edge is the ideal shape.  A smoothing plane preferably has a crowned or cambered edge to it.  Why?
Questions, comments or suggestions?  Email me at mattsbasementworkshop@gmail.com or you can call at 231 683 4082

Once we've determined if the blade that came with our "new" hand plane is worth the effort to sharpen we need to move on to the actual sharpening itself.  The first step is to lap the back of the blade.  Just like with lapping the plane sole, lapping the blade is the most tedious and time consuming job you'll encounter.  But luckily if all goes well you'll have to do this only once.  Next comes sharpening the primary bevel and then the microbevel.

A new way for you to ask a question, leave a comment or suggestion is by calling my Skype Number.  If you have Skype reach me at Mattsbasementworkshop, if you don't have Skype call me at (231) 683-4082.

Scraps, scraps and more scraps are always laying around my shop.  I can never seem to let them go, I'm always convinced that they'll come in handy for something.  This quick and easy "L" bracket jig is just what those scraps are meant for.  Click here for the pdf file including pictures   "L" Bracket Jig .

Part of the clean up of the plane includes paying attention to the condition of the blade.  Little nicks and chips are one thing, but deep ones are a whole other problem.

Skype me at mattsbasementworkshop

A hand plane question rolled in the other day from a listener.  Not a question about setting up a blade or plane but rather a question about using one.  Can you successfully use a shorter No.5 for the same job that a longer No.7 is meant for?

 

Back to the hand plane.  If the blade assembly; the blade, the cap iron and the lever cap aren't set up correctly or simply in decent working order the cutting action may not work as it's meant to.  A good contact between the cap iron and the blade are crucial for the ejection of shavings, otherwise they can be wedged and thus begin to clog the throat.  A great resource for finding out all about hand planes is the book called "the hand plane book" by Garret Hack. 

After a long weekend on an overdo project, I started thinking about all the things I was doing wrong.  It seems like at the end of every project I reflect on what went right and all the things that went wrong and try to decide if there was anything I could have changed.  Getting organized is more than cutlists and drawings.

Don't forget to drop by the Woodwhisperer to get your name in for a chance to get free schwag from Powermatic.

This week's jig of the week is a tenon jig I built a long time ago.  It's a real time saver, but it could use a few extras.  I've once again included a file for you to download if you're interested in seeing the jig being built.  Tenon Jig .

Do you have a jig?  Send it to mattsbasementworkshop@gmail.com

Time for perhaps the one part of prepping a hand plane that I hate.  But luckily, this is an one time event...unless you accidentily plane over an exposed screw tip, let's not go there though, OK?  A thoroughly flattened sole is the first step to ensuring that your efforts will be on their way to total success with the hand plane.  Ideally the entire sole would be dead flat but that could be more work then is really necessary.  The most important areas of the sole to be in the same plane with each other are the toe, heel, side edges and all around the mouth of the throat.

So we had our hand plane anatomy lesson yesterday and it's time to put it to use.  Even if the plane you've purchased is well used and has seen better days, a little cleaning of the most crucial parts can help make even an old dog feel like...like...like a not so old dog.

I mentioned we were going to learn about cleaning up our used hand plane.  But how can we clean it up unless we have an idea of which parts are which, so that we know which ones need cleaning?  Not to mention that it helps to understand where each part goes when it's time to reassemble the pieces.

Sharing a few thoughts with you on one of my favorite tools...the hand plane.

The first submission for our Jig of the week.  Marc sent us a detailed description of the jig, including hardware and pictures of it, so if you're interested just click on this link and a PDF file will open.  Taper Jig 

Do you have a great jig idea?  Why not submit it for next week?

When assembling projects, it's easy to overlook a crucial detail while running around to make sure pieces are put together in the correct order and location.  But one detail that can make a huge headache if it's not paid attention to, is an out of square case or door.

A few thoughts on frame and panel doors.  More to come later....

Avoiding tear-out with the router can be a constant fight.  Tear out is one of the greatest irritations we have to deal with.  At some point we'll all face it, but we can take a few steps to help control it.

Follow up question from a listener regarding the use of climbing cuts.  Due to the fact that they can be dangerous, I figured I would share these thoughts with you too.

Finally, the wrap up to this long winded discussion of templates/patterns.  Listen and enjoy...

Picking up from yesterday, I left off mentioning the climbing cut and how you may come across it in your use of a template.  Normally we move our routers from left to right (counterclockwise) to help control the clockwise rotation of the spinning router bit.  Sometimes this type of cut goes against the grain and we're forced to go the opposite direction...this is one dangerous situation so extra precautions need to be taken....

Part 3 of using templates and patterns in our projects.  Using your template with the router.  Remember thicker material makes better templates for use with tools like the router.

Part 2 on the use of templates and patterns in projects.  This episode is a look at the materials you can use for creating templates.  Paper, cardboard or even wood.  All are a great choice and it just depends on how much help you want from your template.  Just an outline of a specific component?  Or a cutting guide for use with a router.

Part 1 of a multiple part series on using patterns and templates for consistant cuts of duplicate components for projects you'll know you'll make over and over or you just know you'll need a little help with the first time out.

Congratulations to Marc over at the www.thewoodwhisperer.com on his great article featured in Woodcraft magazine.  Great job Marc.

O.K.  This episode was actually suppose to be released yesterday, but I got my files mixed up.  A quick talk about one of my favorite, underrated, overlooked and maybe even forgotten about hand tool...the scratch awl.  I use mine for a number of jobs, scratching a line to mark a dimension, starting a pilot hole for a screw or just whatever I need.  Don't forget to submit your favorite or useful jig for next week. 

OOPS!! I posted the wrong episode for today.  But since it's here please enjoy.  This is the first episode about a favorite jig, so please submit your own for everyone to hear about.  Jigs and patterns are a great time saver in the shop, not to mention that they can also be a safety item. 

The biscuit joiner part 2.  Happy Valentine's Day, hope you remembered your love one or that they remembered you!!!!

The biscuit joiner (plate joiner) is a great tool for quick, but strong joinery of components.  A real complement to reinforcing butt joints.  A few ideas for things to look for in a decent joiner.

Let's take another look at the combination blade for the tablesaw.  The best of both worlds, a rip and crosscut blade all rolled into one.  Not only does this blade do double duty but it saves you time and money.

Oh by the way, this is the 101st episode of the show.  I didn't realize we hit the benchmark until I stumbled across it on iTunes the other day.

Paint, the overlooked and sometimes snubbed finish for projects.  Many woodworkers see painting a project as an indication that you're covering up a problem.  Using paint is just another choice in the many choices we have to make our projects look the best.

There are three steps to painting, 1) preparation, 2) primer, 3) paint.

Congratulations to the winners of the Winter contest at LumberJocks!!!

More on using MDF (medium density fiberboard) successfully.  Part 2 covers joinery, hardware and finishing.  Oh, by the way, the original email I received about MDF was from Joe not John.  Sorry about that Joe.

Inspired by a recent email from a listener I thought it'ld be a great opportunity to talk about using MDF for projects.  This is part 1 of a 2 part series.

Follow up from listeners on more ideas for woodworking magazines, books and other resources...

The variety of materials from which we can choose to make our projects from is pretty large.  MDF (medium density fiberboard) is a great choice for painted projects.  A listener of the show had a question about choosing and using MDF for an upcoming project.

There is so much information about the Shakers that we could dedicate an entire show to the topic, but instead you get just a couple of episodes from me.  So for more information than I could supply, here are some recommended reading and a few tidbits of information supplied by a fellow listener of the show.

Part 2 of the basic design elements for Shaker furniture.

Part 2 of the Shaker talk, but this is part 1 of the look at the design elements that define Shaker furniture.

Part 1 of a look at Shaker Furniture - a very quick introduction to the Shakers. A little look at who they were and a little bit about their philosphy on life and design. Articles referenced include 'Elements of the Shaker Style' Chris Becksvoort - Fine Woodworking Magazine July/August 1998. 'Rethinking Shaker Design' Kerry Pierce - Popular Woodworking February 2006. 'Shaker Historic Trail' National Park Service.

A listener was wondering about what other magazines are out there that might be worth taking a look at.  There are several out there and all worth a quick glance at.

A wrap up to this week's look at Arts and Crafts design.

Part 3 of the Arts and Crafts movement discussion.  Influential leaders of the movement.

Part 2 of the Arts and Crafts Furniture discussion.  The six most important elements of A&C construction.

Our first look at Arts and Crafts furniture.

A request from a long time listener is sparking off this week's discussions.

Free AutoCad software mentioned on the most recent video can be found at www.alibre.com/products/

 

For those of you who enjoy seeing my mug on the screen, here's a look at me organizing my projects.  This includes a look at rough drafts, cutlist and a trip to the lumber store.

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Lumber storage - vertical or horizontal, storage is all about circulation

Another quick look today, this time at wood movement due to seasonal changes....

Before we start building anything let your lumber acclimate to the shop.

Another episode dedicated to answering a listener's question.  Joe wrote me with a question regarding purchasing a new router.  So I gave Joe a few pointers on what to look for, pointers that I've found myself to be key features that make working with a router easier and safer.  Any questions you have?  mattsbasementworkshop@gmail.com

 

Sorry about the high pitch whining noise in the background of Tips From the Scrap Pile No.47.  I think the fan on my computer is giving out and I'm just use to the noise, so I didn't notice how bad it was until I listened this morning to the latest show.  I promise it will be fixed and our hearing won't be damaged by whiny computers (well at least not by mine...)

Thanks for sticking in there,  Matt

A break from our regular discussion to answer a listener question.  Charles asked for advice on purchasing either an new tablesaw or going with a bandsaw instead.  If you have any questions, send them to me at mattsbasementworkshop@gmail.com or at the website at www.mattsbasementworkshop.com .

When planning for your project don't forget to plan for the occassional mistake, after all, we all make them from time to time.  Add a little extra bdft on to the list for just such an emergency.

Well since we're already in the neighborhood with our discussion on pre-dimensioned vs rough lumber, let's review a few terms related to lumber.

Part 2 of the discussion of pre-dimensioned vs rough lumber.  Todays discussion takes a look at rough lumber.

Interested in watching Woodworking Shows 24 hours a day?  Check out www.thewoodworkingchannel.com WARNING!! It's addictive!

Part 1 of a quick look at pre-dimensioned lumber vs. rough lumber.

Calculating boardfeet is really easy, here are two equations to help you out:

1) inches in length x inches in width x inches in thickness/144=boardfeet

2) feet in length x inches in width x inches in thickness/12=boardfeet

Whether you choose to go with detailed construction drawings or just want to work from your rough drafts, you should always have a cutlist.  By having a detailed list of the actual components you need to build your project;  their dimensions, species of wood, joinery notes, etc. the build should go a little bit smoother.

Thanks for listening and dropping by, Matt

Once we have our rough sketches and we know what we want our project to look like.  We need to start putting together some construction drawings.  It's at this point that we begin to think about how the entire piece will be made, joinery, components and fasteners.  Where the rough sketch is very simple in nature, the construction drawings are a little bit more complicated.

A quick thanks to Jeff for reminding me that the free "drawing" program from Google is called "SketchUp", Thanks Jeff.

Let's talk a little bit more about sketching your project idea.  Being able to actually see your project on paper is the first step in starting it.  Rough sketchs are very simple to make and are a great way to play with any design to find the right look.  Don't be concerned with too much detail, the main idea is just to see it.

Thanks for listening, Straight Grains and Sharp Blades.  Matt

It's the first podcast of the new year and it's a great time to start the year off right by getting organized.  What steps do you take when preparing for a new project?

We heard from Marc, over at The Wood Whisperer, who had a great little tip about choosing and using plywood.  A-1 grade veneers for plywood can be very expensive, depending on the species of wood, but never overlook lesser grades.  Just because it's not an A-1 doesn't mean it's not good.  When it comes to grading veneers, just like with solid wood, there are certain things graders must look for to qualify the piece for the best grade.  But when you look closer, those "lesser" grades still look great and are alot more inexpensive.

Happy Holidays and Straight Grains and Sharp Blades, Matt

I recently built some toy tables for my son.  His room has always been an obstacle course of cars, trains and action figures.  So it was time to make an effort to clean the place up.  Each table is about 4 feet long by about 2 feet wide and approximately 15 inches off the floor.  Along with each table I made two rolling carts that fit under the tables and provide a great deal of storage.

The room is still an obstacle course from day to day, but when it comes time to clean up the room it goes alot faster.  Thanks for stopping by and checking out the show.  Happy Holidays to everyone.....Straight Grains and Sharp Blades, Matt

 

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Please forgive the poor lighting!!  I'm still learning the lighting!

A quick holiday announcement and some ideas....

Plywood grades....

Dressing up that plywood edge....

Plywood for shelves is a great idea, they can be cut to nearly the exact size you need with little glue up and mess, but are they as strong as solid wood?

A thought or two on plywood in furniture construction....

An email from a listener who makes some great points that I overlooked when I talked about choosing your first cordless drill.  Thanks Che for your comment and suggestion.

A couple of tips on the safe way to cut large sheets of plywood or large solid wood boards.  Safety is first above all, so make sure you have a spare set of hands when possible.  But if you're alone, roller stands, tables, etc. are essential.

 

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I promise this video is a lot better than the last.  Thanks to everyone for the comments, suggestions and so much more.  Remember, push on the diagonal.

Keeping fine sawdust under control is very important for not only your lungs but the lungs of others in and around the shop.  Here's a quick and easy tip for making your own portable dust filter....

The safety discussion continues...a quick look at blade guards and splitters....