Quick Answer: To inspect a tool’s edge, hold it up to a light source. A truly sharp edge is a perfect intersection of two planes and will be invisible. If you see a glint of light reflecting back, the edge is rounded and dull. You can also use a magnifying loupe to look for nicks,…
Quick Answer: To align pulleys, first unplug your tool. Then, use a straightedge, piece of string, or a laser alignment tool to ensure the faces of both the motor pulley and the tool’s arbor pulley are perfectly flush and on the same plane. Adjust one pulley on its shaft until they are aligned, then re-tension…
A skew chisel is a versatile woodturning tool with an angled cutting edge, primarily used for creating exceptionally smooth, flat surfaces (planing cuts) and sharp, crisp details like V-grooves and beads on spindles. To use it safely, always present the tool to the wood with the bevel rubbing, using the middle third of the cutting…
What is DC injection braking? It’s an electronic method that rapidly stops an AC motor by injecting a small amount of DC voltage after power is cut. This creates a stationary magnetic field that acts as a brake on the spinning rotor. What is its main benefit? The primary benefit is safety. It drastically reduces…
A kanna japanese woodworking tool is a traditional hand plane that cuts on the pull stroke, not the push stroke. This unique action provides exceptional control and allows woodworkers to create an incredibly smooth, glass-like surface finish without sandpaper. To use a kanna, you set the blade depth by tapping it with a small hammer,…
What are Tataki Nomi? Tataki Nomi are heavy-duty Japanese striking chisels designed for robust woodworking tasks. They feature a laminated steel blade and a metal hoop on the handle, allowing them to be struck forcefully with a hammer (genno) for tasks like cutting mortises and heavy joinery. What are they used for? Their primary use…
What are link belts? Link belts are adjustable, high-performance V-belts made from individual interlocking polyurethane links. They replace standard rubber V-belts on tools like table saws, drill presses, and jointers. Why use them? The primary benefit of link belts for woodworking tools is a dramatic reduction in machine vibration and noise, leading to cleaner cuts,…
A sash mortise chisel is a specialized, heavy-duty chisel with a thick, narrow blade designed for chopping deep mortises by hand. It excels at removing waste efficiently without bending or breaking, making it an essential tool for creating strong mortise and tenon joints in furniture and cabinetry. Unlike a standard bench chisel, its robust design…
What is it? Ultrasonic cleaning for woodworking tools is a process that uses high-frequency sound waves in a cleaning solution to create microscopic bubbles. These bubbles implode against tool surfaces, blasting away tough pitch, resin, and grime from even the tightest spaces without harsh scrubbing. Why use it? It deeply cleans intricate items like saw…
Quick Answer: Laser levels for woodworking project crisp, perfectly level or plumb lines over long distances. They make tasks like cabinet installation, shelf hanging, and panel alignment significantly faster and more accurate than traditional spirit levels. The primary benefit is hands-free operation. Once set up, the laser provides a constant reference line, allowing you to…