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Tip
#50
Using
a Jointer (continued)
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Surfacing
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Figure
6-12.
A push block will help maintain even pressure, give
better control over the stock, and keep your hands out
of the danger zone.
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Surfacing-jointing
the face of a piece of stock-is usually done for one of three
reasons: to smooth up a rough surface, to thin down a workpiece,
or to remove a warp. Always use extra care when you surface
because the top of the work is below the top of the fence
and your hands are close to the danger zone. Warning: Always
use a push stick or push blocks to move the stock over the
cutterhead. Never try to surface a piece of stock less than
12" long or 1/4" thick. If you need a smaller component for
a project, do your jointer work on a larger piece and cut
off what you need.
The technique
for handling and feeding the stock is similar to edge jointing.
However, since the stock lies flat on the table below the
top of the fence, always use a push stick or push blocks (Figure
6-12). They help you to maintain even pressure, give you
better control over the stock, and help keep your hands out
of the danger zone. As you get used to using a push stick
and push blocks, you'll find they may actually improve your
woodworking. Since a push stick or a push block keeps your
fingers safe, you feel more confident while making a cut.
This confidence helps you achieve better control, and better
control means a better cut.
If you
are using push blocks with sponge rubber bottoms, you may
want to modify the hand movements when cutting. Use your left
hand to position the push block about midway along the infeed
table and move the push block forward with the stock while
maintaining downward pressure. As the push block starts to
enter the danger zone, stop the feed, bring the left hand
back to its starting point, and then continue. With a little
practice, these short movements can be made without affecting
the quality of the cut.
Continue
to Squaring Stock
Back to Jointing Four Edges
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