When it comes to woodworking, safety should always be a top priority. One of the most useful tools for ensuring accurate and safe cuts on a table saw is a featherboard. A featherboard is a simple device that applies pressure to the workpiece, keeping it firmly against the fence and preventing kickback.
To make a featherboard for your table saw fence, you will need a few basic materials. First, you will need a piece of plywood or hardwood that is about 1/2 inch thick. This will serve as the main body of the featherboard. You will also need two pieces of wood for the fingers. These should be about 1 inch wide, 1/4 inch thick, and approximately 3 inches long.
Begin by marking the locations where the fingers will be attached to the main body of the featherboard. Make sure to leave enough space between the fingers to accommodate the width of your workpiece. Next, cut saw kerfs at the marked locations. These kerfs should be about 1/8 inch wide and approximately 1/2 inch deep.
Now it’s time to attach the fingers to the main body of the featherboard. Apply some glue to the back of each finger and insert them into the kerfs. Make sure they fit snugly but can still slide easily. Once the glue has dried, you can reinforce the fingers by adding screws or nails from the back of the featherboard.
Finally, attach the featherboard to your table saw fence using clamps or screws. Make sure it is positioned so that the fingers apply pressure against the workpiece, pushing it against the fence. Test the featherboard by running a test piece through the saw. It should provide enough pressure to keep the workpiece in place without impeding the movement of the wood.
By making and using a featherboard for your table saw fence, you can greatly improve the safety and accuracy of your cuts. Remember to always follow proper safety guidelines and wear appropriate protective equipment when working with power tools.
What is a Featherboard and Why You Need One for Your Table Saw Fence
A featherboard is a safety device used in woodworking to help hold workpieces securely against a table saw fence. It consists of a series of thin, flexible fingers that are attached to a solid base. When properly positioned, the fingers apply pressure against the workpiece to ensure it stays in place as it is fed through the saw blade.
The primary purpose of a featherboard is to prevent kickback, which occurs when the workpiece is forced backward and out of control by the spinning saw blade. Kickback can be dangerous and cause serious injuries, so it is crucial to use a featherboard when working with a table saw fence.
A featherboard helps maintain a consistent and steady feed rate, resulting in cleaner and more accurate cuts. It also reduces the risk of the workpiece wandering or becoming misaligned during the cutting process.
| Benefits of Using a Featherboard: |
|---|
| 1. Increased safety by preventing kickback |
| 2. Improved accuracy and precision in cuts |
| 3. Reduces the risk of workpiece wandering or misalignment |
Featherboards are relatively easy to make and can be customized to fit your specific table saw fence. There are various DIY featherboard designs available, or they can be purchased commercially. Regardless of the method, using a featherboard is an essential safety measure that should be taken seriously when operating a table saw fence.
Materials and Tools You’ll Need to Make Your Own Featherboard
In order to make your own featherboard for your table saw fence, you will need the following materials:
- Wood: Choose a sturdy type of wood, such as oak or birch, that is thick enough to provide the necessary stability for the featherboard.
- Feathers: Look for feathers that are long enough and firm enough to effectively hold your workpiece against the fence. Pheasant feathers are often a popular choice.
- Screws or Nails: You will need screws or nails to attach the feathers to the wooden base.
- Measuring Tools: A ruler or tape measure will be necessary for accurately measuring and marking the placement of the feathers on the wooden base.
- Drill and Drill Bits: A drill will be needed to create pilot holes for the screws or nails.
- Screwdriver or Hammer: Depending on whether you use screws or nails, you will need either a screwdriver or a hammer to secure the feathers to the wooden base.
Note: Safety goggles and gloves are also strongly recommended when working with tools and materials.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Featherboard for Your Table Saw Fence
Featherboards are essential accessories for woodworking projects, especially when it comes to table saws. They provide extra support and stability to ensure a safe and accurate cut. While there are various featherboard designs available on the market, making one yourself can be a cost-effective and customizable option. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a featherboard for your table saw fence.
Tools and Materials:
- Piece of hardwood (approx. 1 inch thick, 4 inches wide, and 12 inches long)
- Pencil
- Measuring tape
- Table saw
- Band saw or jigsaw
- Drill
- Countersink bit
- 1/4 inch carriage bolts (2)
- 1/4 inch wing nuts (2)
- Washers (4)
- Allen wrench
Step 1: Measure and Mark
Start by measuring and marking the desired locations for the holes on your hardwood piece. You’ll need three holes: one near the top, one near the bottom, and one in the middle. These holes will be used to attach the featherboard to your table saw fence.
Step 2: Drill the Holes
Using a drill and a countersink bit, drill the holes at the marked locations. Make sure the holes are wide enough to accommodate the carriage bolts.
Step 3: Shape the Wood
Using a band saw or jigsaw, cut the top portion of the board at an angle. This angled shape allows the featherboard to apply pressure against the workpiece, keeping it firmly against the table saw fence.
Step 4: Install the Carriage Bolts
Insert the carriage bolts into the holes from the outside of the hardwood piece. Place a washer on each bolt on the inside of the board to prevent it from pulling through. Secure the bolts in place by tightening the wing nuts with an Allen wrench.
Step 5: Test the Featherboard
After attaching the featherboard to your table saw fence, give it a test run. Place a workpiece against the fence and adjust the featherboard to apply pressure against the workpiece. Ensure that the featherboard provides enough support and prevents any movement during the cut.
Step 6: Fine-Tuning
If needed, make any necessary adjustments to the featherboard’s angle or position to optimize its performance.
Step 7: Finishing Touches (Optional)
You can sand and finish the featherboard for a smoother surface and a more polished appearance. Applying a protective finish will also help prolong its lifespan.
That’s it! By following these steps, you can easily create a featherboard for your table saw fence. Remember, safety should always be a priority when operating any power tools, so ensure you use appropriate safety equipment and follow all safety guidelines.
