The fastest way to remove resin from blades is to use a dedicated blade and bit cleaner spray or a citrus-based degreaser. Let the cleaner soak on the blade for 5-10 minutes. After soaking, scrub the gunk away with a soft brass or nylon brush to avoid damaging the carbide teeth. Rinse, dry completely, and…
To verify the squareness of a combination or try square, use the “two-line flip test.” Draw a line along the blade against a straight edge, flip the square over, and draw a second line next to the first. If the lines are perfectly parallel, your square is accurate. For power tools like a miter or…
For durability and low maintenance, choose oilstones. They are tough, cut slowly, and are great for general-purpose sharpening on tools like utility knives and axes, but can also sharpen chisels and plane irons effectively. For speed and the sharpest possible edges, choose waterstones. They cut very quickly and are preferred for high-performance woodworking tools like…
What is a sharpening jig? A sharpening jig is a device that holds a woodworking tool, like a chisel or plane iron, at a precise and consistent angle against an abrasive surface (like a sharpening stone) to create a perfect, repeatable cutting edge. Why use one? Jigs remove the guesswork and muscle memory required for…
Quick Answer: To stop condensation on your tools, you must control your workshop’s climate. The most effective methods are using a dehumidifier to keep relative humidity between 40-50%, improving air circulation with a simple fan to prevent stagnant, moist air, and applying a protective layer of paste wax to cast iron surfaces. There’s no worse…
What are honing guides? Honing guides are simple jigs that securely hold a chisel or plane iron at a consistent angle against a sharpening stone, removing the guesswork and ensuring a perfectly repeatable, sharp edge every time. Why are they essential? They are the fastest and most reliable way for woodworkers, especially beginners, to achieve…
What is silica gel for? Silica gel is a desiccant used in woodworking to absorb moisture from the air inside enclosed spaces like toolboxes, cabinets, and drawers. This prevents rust and corrosion on metal tools and protects wooden handles from swelling or cracking. How do you use it? Place silica gel packets or canisters inside…
What are stropping compounds? Stropping compounds are micro-abrasive pastes or bars applied to a leather or wood strop. They are used as the final step in sharpening to polish the cutting edge of a tool, remove the microscopic burr left by sharpening stones, and achieve a razor-sharp, mirror finish. Which color is best? For general…
A reciprocating saw is a powerful handheld saw that cuts with a push-and-pull (reciprocating) motion. While known for demolition, it’s a versatile woodworking tool for rough cuts, breaking down large stock, flush cutting, and making curved cuts in thick material. For woodworking, choose blades with a higher Teeth Per Inch (TPI) for smoother cuts and…
The most essential table saw woodworking tool safety devices are the riving knife, blade guard, and push sticks. The riving knife prevents dangerous kickback and should almost never be removed from the saw. Always use a push stick or push block for cuts where your hands would otherwise come within 6 inches of the spinning…