As a woodworker the mitre saw is very useful. As a homeowner/ DIYer the mitre saw is a necessity. I would love to see someone trim a room with their table saw sled.
I was debating building jigs for my circular saw, instead of buying a miter saw. In the end, those jigs will take up more or less the same space on the shelf as my miter and the costs for building the jigs is nearly as much as a blue bosch GCM 8 SJL. So, miter saw it is.
Agree! For a majority of the furniture I build, I can cut everything accurately by hand or with my table saw. But as a homeowner, building decks, trim, repairs, etc., I would replace my miter saw instantly.
Agree 100%. If all you're doing is building fine furniture, Ok, maybe you don't need a miter saw. But if you're a hobbyist, planning to do any mobile work, or to do any kind of home improvement work, than miter saw is probably at the top of the list.
So glad to see you took their advice and built separate toe kicks. I’m a 30 year experience cabinet and furniture maker, and seperate toe kicks is only way I built cabinets even the island and entertainment furniture. You can level and secure 10 times faster than leveling cabinets. Once leveled your base cabinet install is 50% faster on average
From another 30 veteran cabinet builder I couldn't agree more. Once you figure this out it sets you free and falls into that categry with all the other simple things that save time and work just fine.
I'm a retired contractor who is now doing woodworking as a hobby and maybe a little supplement retirement income. You would think that they are similar but they are worlds apart at times. As a contractor a miter saw was a must have tool and used all the time and the table saw was a secondary tool that was nice to have sometimes. In woodworking almost the opposite is true, I say almost because I think the miter saw is still very valuable in woodworking. I have watched videos where I'm thinking I can do that on a miter saw so much easier and faster with the same results, and I usually do. Guess I'm just used to using them after all these years. I'm looking for ideas on how to build my miter station in my small shop so will definitely keep this video in mind. Thanks for the videos and I like the humor that you have in them.
I always enjoy your apparent transparency, explanations, and subtle humor. Creators, such as yourself, who share information from evident experience, are the ones I look for when venturing into unfamiliar DIY territory. More importantly, I trust these creators when they explain why they recommend products. I am mentioning this because potential sponsors would do well by their shareholders if they sponsored your channel with Lincoln St. Woodworks-worthy products.
This may seem odd to many, but apart from the tools I use in my shop, I enjoy the visual environment I work in. You do a lot of work in yours, so why not make it look appealing too.
Everyone has their own opinion I guess. But my miter saw is by far the most used tool in the shop. I did a similar setup by building the saw between cabinets so it has one continuous work surface along with a stop block, dust collection, and plenty of lighting. Nice work on your end and I hope you get a ton of use out of it.
"A bank of cabinets that helpful and convenient tool sits on" is a brilliant reframing - and something I needed to hear as I've been on the fence about building a "dedicated" miter saw station. I've been following your channel since you had just a few videos up and as a small shop owner myself, I've learned so much from you. Looking forward to even more content and definitely going on the list for that stop block!
One of your best videos yet man. Glad someone is addressing the “know it alls” that try to tell people what they should or shouldn’t have. By the way, LOVE the walnut. It’s your shop brother, make it how you like it!
I’ve watched dozens of videos on shop furniture and miter station builds and generally just enjoy those types of videos. But the Cutlist Optimizer tip you just dropped on me is a game changer. Thanks for that!
I have three compound miter saws in my shop, two on shop built carts, and one that folds up contractor style. I teach technical theatre and can't begin to imagine a shop without "chop" saws. Table saws are great, but they are just one tool and can't do everything. I'm also down my cabinet table saw right now due to being in a temporary space. Wouldn't dream of giving up my panel saw or band saw either. I have a very tiny shop for the tools we use and the amount of scenery we build so nearly everything is on wheels, even our "contractor's" table saw can lift up on casters, and our work tables have locking casters. Every inch of space under every work surface is storage. I think the only universal thing in a wood shop is no one ever has enough space. Thank you for the spotlight on miter saws. Compound miter saws are great tools, it shines differently from other saws. Like you said, each of us know best what we need in our shops. There really isn't one "right" answer.
I have been woodworking for 20 years and I my miter saw has always been a "go to" tool. That is a great workstation and, for me, it's timely. I have to finally update mine. I used that toe kit concept when I did my kitchen cabinets and it was a game changer. Thanks for the great videos!
You’re one of the best woody tubers on this old platform, great delivery, cheery book, brilliant tips, and fantastically explained. I love you man, and if you wore a dress, I’d marry you in a heartbeat. Marvellous!
I heard you out...watched the whole video. I have a small space without a dedicated assembly area...still don't think i will ever have a miter saw in my shop. You convinced me that you truly believe in it, but still haven't convinced me that i need one.
I have not set up my miter saw in my new shop yet and while I miss it, I haven't missed it too much. It's also VERY helpful to have it mobile for trim projects.
I'm currently in the middle of this build, and the plans have been great. Definitely need to go slow, read a few steps ahead, and have a calculator handy - but so far measurements in my build have matched the plans exactly, so it's all fitting together like a glove. I have to make a couple changes to account for some specific situations in my shop, but the plans have been easy to alter where needed. Great work! Also worthy to note - I've made the entire thing without a table saw, as my shop is 110sq ft. Used a track saw and miter saw only, and I've had zero issues making any cut needed!
Your channel is one of my Top Ten Woodworking Channels online. You are informative, honest and engaging with a wicked sense of humor. The solutions for your miter station build were brilliant, and the walnut trim is gorgeous. THANK YOU for sharing your knowledge and experience with us. I wish you continued success. Be well!
The puns, the truths, the little tid bits like acknowledging pocket screws will pull out of line if not careful... even acknowledging heavier drawer slides and camera angles. You sir, just earned a sub. Usually I don't like a lot of DIY shop guys with fancier tools than I have lmao
I don't normally make comment, however having built many different benches, scramble around for a saw, clamps etc. measure up, only to find that I would continually readjust and at times have unwanted waste. I wish I had this simple setup, decades ago. Thank you, enjoyable to watch and even an old dog learnt a few new tweaks.
Finally someone who actually “gets it”. Your one of the few (if only other) woodworkers who has the same garage “footings” like me. I absolutely HATE them. You cannot push anything flush against the walls and you lose around 3-1/2” of space! Especially, being you already need to have to be out a few feet from the wall as is if your miter saw has “sliding rails”.
My dude... when starting out in this hobby, you were my first woodworking "like and subscribe" person. You have remained one of my favorites since then!
Very nice build. I got rid of my mitersaw several years ago because I thought I could use the space better. I do miss it, and you have me rethinking things.
I use my miter saw so often I have a big one that stays in my shop and a small one for smaller projects that I can move around. Those tiny drawers are comical because you would think it’s a waste of time and money to make but I would load them up with marking tools and small tape measures. I love it!
As a laminate tech for many years I used slats from venetian blinds under the glued laminate to suspend it from touching down. They are thin, easy to clean, stack well in your box, and they are CHEAP! Other folks swear by dowels but I can stack 50 slats in a much smaller space than 50 dowels!
.Have been doing laminate for more years than I would like to admit, have always used leftover laminate self-edge strips between the glued surfaces. most around 30" and a few around 40" to reach into the back of a inside corner.
my miter saw is an old craftsman ive been lugging around for almost 15 years now...ive never changed the blade and it was a hand me down....a tool i have seriously gotten a ton a value from
I am a huge fan of miter saws. I make mostly smaller items, and honestly use the miter way more than a table saw. Props to using Alms fancy angled drawer!
I have had a Miter Saw for YEARS prior to getting in to actual woodcraft, and I've used it a lot for projects around the house, and am sure i will for wood craft. Love how the station turend out! I will definitely draw inspiration when i want to redo the pieces that were in place when i bought my house. (Shelves, not a station with a top level with the cutting surface)
i have been doing wood working for about 50 years. my dad taught. me. safety first. well any ways there were very few miter boxes back then. we had a hand miter box a good one though.. but i agree with you that a miter box is a very important tool in my shop. second only to my table saw.. loved the video. thanks. wow walnut.
Great build. I built mine out of discontinued Rockler steel shop stands on sale for over 50% off and free shipping. Rock solid, easy to level & put a top on, skim the sides with plywood and make some simple doors/drawers. The entire station is about 22' long and I can cut 10' to either side, but you can make it just about any width you'd like. The entire thing can be disassembled and moved to a new location if needed. It lives along one dedicated basement shop wall and is an absolute necessity for me. It stores nearly all my tools below, with plenty of extra space and I have not even put up cabinets above it yet. Removable fences permit it to double as a pair of benches/tables for working on.
My dad has always had a miter saw in his shop. And having used it as I learned as a beginner I’ll always have one. It’s so nice to set up a stop block for repeatable cuts or to just walk over and quickly make a small cut or just shave off a hair. Some guys don’t find them useful and some do. To each his own
My miter saw is very very close to accurate but if I need to be super duper accurate then it's very handy and fast to get the rough size of long lumber and then the exact cut on the table saw. I would not give up my miter saw and if other people do, well good for them. That "not a miter station" came out really well. Good job LSW!
Just built a miter saw station very similar yours. Same saw, too! I manufacture custom laminate for my business, so used one of my own laminates for the countertop. I am IN LOVE with having a miter saw station like this! It’s a game changer in my shop. I know you’ll love yours, too.
Gotta admit, one of your better videos. As for miter saws, oh heck yeah. I've been in construction for way too long, easily portable table saws are a must, miter saws are equally important. From framing to finish, a miter saw is used daily. On large projects with several guys working with me doing the finish work, I've been known to set up three miter saws to facilitate work flow. No one ever complained. In my shop, I have one set up a few steps from the table saw. Having used miter saws more than any DIY homeowner and probably more than a few woodshop professionals, yeah, I'll always have one set up. Great build by the way.
I’ve been one of those “no miter saw in a small shop” people. I didn’t want to loose the space, but with some of the methods you illustrate in the video I remember it’s not just a “chop saw” to break things down. I’m now considering dedicating a station like this! Thanks
Dude. Best woodworking video I’ve ever seen. Absolute no BS. Love it. I’m relatively new to the craft (9-10yrs) and it’s so refreshing to see your take on things. Spend money where it counts, save money where you can. Some tools should be Festool, others can be Harbor Freight. Not to mention the focus of this video. It got to the point where I was afraid to admit I love my miter saw lest I be lambasted by the nay-sayers on the interwebs. Hell. I’d rather have a tracksaw and a miter and no table saw if I had to choose only two. Keep up the great work.
Thank you for the vid.... I am picking up woodwork as a hobby and you have great tips. Thank you. Love your sarcasm and your sense of humor. Keep up the great work.
You are just the best. There are too many things I want to quote from this to actually do so! Informative and effortless entertaining, you are one of my absolute favs on YT.
Mitre saw was my first big item buy. 12 years later I just bought a table saw and thickness planner. I'm a baker that loves working with wood in my spare time. The mills have always been able to help me with that other stuff but now I wanna retire from baking and play with my wood more. 😅
I see a different distinction in using my miter saw. Initially, i used my miter saw on a portable sawhorse-style stand so I could stow it when not in use. It was inconvenient to set it up, so I rarely used it except for big projects. I built a permanent mobile stand for it and it is always connected to power and dust collection. It is SO handy to make a quick cut with no setup. Eliminating the setup time was the key to the saw being useful (for me).
I’m thoroughly impressed with the entire conversation to the quality of build! And idc what anyone says a mitre station is absolutely needed! What I love about yours and Michael Alms is it isn’t massive or ridiculous. What I’ve been hesitant on building mine is I don’t have a small large Yet to build into mine like Michael has, plus all the other tools that be taken into consideration when building once that holds a ton of tools besides just the mitre saw. I have a tiny garage that barely fit in a small suv till I dedicated it to wood tools and the greatest need is storage in my case plus a dedicated home for my mitre saw. Not having an accurate fence to break down material is awful and time wasting. A gripe I’ve had for a while are French cleat systems, the idea was nice back when April Wilkerson went heavy on em but the amount of wall space and headache trying to build functional and personalized tool storage, plus the upkeep of cleaning and the many more failures that were tossed out because they either fell off the wall or just didn’t work out wasted a lot of time I could’ve devoted to actual cabinets. That and my ocd hates seeing clutter so anyways I love seeing French cleats hold cabinets and neat storage builds that work out but a small shop needs drawers, cabinets, and roll out/flip top carts plus a mitre saw station that isn’t outrageously massive. Now if table saw benches were more well thought out, less bulky and more multi functional that’d be great
This is perfect timing for me, who is just about to rip out a wall of un-synced cabinets and benches to replace with a miter station setup. I got some really nice insights from this that I will take into account. (Though it will NOT be as elaborate and nice as yours, it may be as practical :)) Thanks! And I very much like the way you question "the common opinion" with common sense.
I do enjoy following you on your journey it’s quite soothing….like a hot cup of coco on a cold day. I have just built a 10x12 workshop in the backyard and starting to set it up with my tools. Floor space is an issue for me. My journey started 2 months ago since I’ve been retired for a few years it was time to start something. Thanks for bringing us along with you ❤❤
I did the same about two years ago. 12x12 backyard "shop" it's no longer much of shop it's so full of tools and storage bins. Just a plain old storage shed. Anytime i wanna work on a project i pull out the tools and sawhorses. I need a bigger shed.
When I use cutlist, I usually enter my stock sheets as 48x48. It's not the most efficient, but cutlist frequently expects you to make 8 foot long cuts along the entire length of the sheet. Cutting your plywood sheets in half and breaking them down from there is way easier and you're far less likely to make mistakes. Obviously this doesn't work for pieces that need to be longer than 4 feet, but it works for most cabinet builds. Worst case scenario you have to buy an extra sheet of plywood for an oversized piece, and then you have some left over for other projects.
I am so thankful I stumbled across your videos. All of them are fun to watch, informative and you are so honest. My husband and I make very simple (and I'm talking VERY simple) wood projects as we don't have anywhere near the amount of tools you have however, I love to watch how you can turn wood into something beautiful. Looking forward to more videos.
Very good video. There is more down-to-earth sensible info in this 21+ minute video than in the last 210 minutes of wood working vids I’ve watched here on UA-cam. Great hacks and advice. Oh, and yes…. We are not building rocket ships in our wood shops. That’s a great thought to keep in mind.
I watched the same channels and decided to use the same leveling technique for my kitchen cabinets. Many many steps in the future of my singlehanded DIY renovation project.
such a great point about the cutlist optimizer. Something i have struggled with on several projects and never realized the problem with it until you pointed it out.
I sold my mitersaw after not really using it a whole lot except for a time or two every other week to break down rough lumber. Knowing that I’ll be moving into a new place and shop, I knew I needed one again. I’ll need to make a lot of quick cuts as I’m setting everything up. Haven’t moved yet but having one again is so nice . Hopefully I’ll have enough space for a station at my next place. I’ll never make the mistake of not having one again. BTW, the 10in Skil just might be the best value out there. For 230$ after taxes, I am surprised just how great that thing is.
Trying to finish a new small (13x17) shop build where I convinced myself to leave the miter saw on one of those cheap rolling cart things and just use it in the garage. Now I’m rethinking so thanks for that.
The guy who drinks a lot of bourbon...had me laughing on that one. As many videos that are out there, it is cool to see how many woodworkers watch other woodworkers videos!
I have so many comments about most of your video! First off, great job! Clear and funny! I was a cabinet maker at two shops, and the first one built everything with integrated toe kicks... such a pain in the ass when you go the the customer's site and had to shim the crap out of one cabinet, and belt sand away another! The second shop did the toe kicks separately, and install time dropped and so did the stress levels! As for making quick and dirty shop furniture, I'm of the belief that you should enjoy your time in the shop - spend whatever time and effort you want on it! I like having stuff in the shop that you would find in someone's kitchen. As to the people who say, "oh, you shouldn't have 'X', and you're not a real woodworker if you use 'Y'.." I stopped following/subscribing to people like that, and you should ignore those comments. I have a medium sized shop at home (Is 24'x 24' medium?), and I can't imagine living without my Bosch miter saw. Any tool that helps you break down stock and square things up is a keeper in my books.
Really nice build. That mitre station is made better, and looks better, than most of the furniture in my house. And a mitre saw is a no brainer for DIYers or hobbyist woodworkers. I live in the UK, work out of a medium sized shed and use my mitre saw every week. I dont have space for a nice station like yours, and have to constantly move it around, but I would never be without it.
I have survived for years with nothing but a miter saw and circular saw. Granted I wasn’t making any fine wood working projects. But for the work I have done, they’ve been invaluable. I could never get rid of my miter saw
Excellent video, I agree with your points regarding having a power miter saw and intend on upgrading to the same saw you have. I really like your miter saw station and your video helped me answer several questions. I plan to start my build after I purchase my new saw and after I remove my radial arm saw from my shop. I’ve used it for two cuts in the past 15 years. Thanks for the great video. I too have a small shop and every square foot is important.
I agree, the miter saw is VERY useful. Wouldn’t be without it now in my small shop. I have the same Bosch miter saw. It is accurate to .004” over a foot. That was with the factory blade, I have a better blade now. I also have the Shop Nation dust collector, great addition when cutting thinner materials. No 4x4s!
Love that stop block! And partnering with Izzy just tells me it will be rock solid! Just moved to a new place and building out my shop. Was gonna make a stop but seeing that tells me yo make a temp one til that is available.
man, I am so glad you decided to go full time here! You really are very good at conveying ideas, in a very entertaining, and seemingly genuine way. THANK YOU!
This stop block is everything I’ve wanted for years! Nice work! I’m a huge advocate for t-track behind the fence for this reason alone. Sign me up for four. Two for each side.
I'm not a cabinet maker or any kind of pro woodworker... but I am the guy who regularly does small home furniture and repair stuff from remedial structural woodwork under my floor to building a large fitted modern oak desk for my home office to building nest boxes for hedgehogs in my garden... and I use the mitre saw more often than almost any other tool with the possible exception of a cheap little drill press.
Love your build. Aesthetically pleasing as well as functional. Marc Spagnuolo of the Wood Whisperer said it well I think. As much time as you spend in your shop, there is no reason it shouldn't look nice. I also agree that the miter saw is an important piece of shop equipment. 👍
I love the upgraded miter station. Huge upgrade in functionality, I will definitely keep some of these design principles in mind as I build my first miter station soon. Well done John! It has been a joy watching this channel grow, keep it up!
Travis did an awesome job with his design of the dust collection and I know this because his was the 2nd dust collection I purchased because the first one from another 3D print maker imploded !!! Great video love your stuff and the project manager was the best addition!!!!
I totally agree, when you have a machine set up, whether you need to trim, route or cut something else, you sometimes need another option. Just like having one or two extra routers once your router table is set up for particular job.
Oh yeah, that Kreg 520 is my favorite so far. So versatile, I’m good with the lack of dust collection in exchange for the ability to bring it to the work piece
Terrific video and moves fast. Love the philosophical tidbits and self-reflection moments. Looking to remodel my table saw table to also serve as a miter saw station as well (space limitations). This gave me some good ideas. Thank you!
Grüß dich Jon, my shop is more or less the same size as yours kinda 3 x 5 meters, what ever it is in imperial... But I use as well a garage and cars are more or less the same size... I love your build, and I totally agree. A miter saw ist definitely a must have. At least for my needs. For 4 years I had a fixed station. Due to my f*in' neighbor I needed to change my shop organization, maybe you remember it from our private conversation... In my new shop, I need to build everything smaller and mobile, in case I'd need to empty my shop again... I'll go for a mobile cart version with fold down wings... I know I will miss my old stand, but better than nothing... Good luck with your new full time job ✊ Viele Grüße vom Garagen Gio
That was one of your best videos yet - brilliant. One day you're going to be rich and have a large shop but please don't ditch the small shop issues. I would imagine that a lot of people (like me) only have and ever will have a small space to work in.
can't find your update video but I believe you mentioned you worked corporate sports memorabilia sales or something.. it's really cool to see how you use those skills to connect and navigate the youtube woodworking community. I'm in quite a few youtube communities and I have never seen someone do what you are doing which is to connect, support, reference and bring in other creators all the time in every video you have.. I think it is something I like most about your channel. So happy you went full time with this, you're very skilled at what you do. Also the miter station is 10/10
Hey! I upgraded to a miter saw from a radial arm saw. Or better known as a finger removal tool. :) I still have the radial arm saw though. If you use it with care it is very versatile. Be safe. Celebrate after the project is done!
My sliding miter saw requires a lot of space; the fence is 23" from the end of the slide. So I purchased a portable stand that can be placed anywhere and that has extensions nearly 5' either side of the blade. The ability to move my saw around is essential in my shop. As is the saw itself.
Great, now I have to get that dust collection upgrade. We have the same saw. I got it because of the low footprint vs rail-based design. Turns out it is really easy to reconfigure and vastly more accurate than a contractor-grade saw.
Whatever happened to the stop block? Can't seem to find any information on it existing.
We got a little delayed but it’s coming - and it’s going to be awesome
@@Lincolnstww Glad to hear it! I'm preparing to build a miter saw station soon, so I'll definitely be looking out for it.
@@Lincolnstww Count me in. Planning to build my storage unit that happens to have a miter saw on it this summer.
This coming anytime soon? Save me having to machine mine own.
Is the stop block still a thing? I feel like we are due for an update.@@Lincolnstww
As a woodworker the mitre saw is very useful. As a homeowner/ DIYer the mitre saw is a necessity. I would love to see someone trim a room with their table saw sled.
I was debating building jigs for my circular saw, instead of buying a miter saw. In the end, those jigs will take up more or less the same space on the shelf as my miter and the costs for building the jigs is nearly as much as a blue bosch GCM 8 SJL. So, miter saw it is.
Agree! For a majority of the furniture I build, I can cut everything accurately by hand or with my table saw. But as a homeowner, building decks, trim, repairs, etc., I would replace my miter saw instantly.
Exactly! Can you make it without one? Sure. I use mine all the time and wouldn’t want to be without.
Agree 100%. If all you're doing is building fine furniture, Ok, maybe you don't need a miter saw. But if you're a hobbyist, planning to do any mobile work, or to do any kind of home improvement work, than miter saw is probably at the top of the list.
Use an ordinary hand-held circular saw. Easy
So glad to see you took their advice and built separate toe kicks. I’m a 30 year experience cabinet and furniture maker, and seperate toe kicks is only way I built cabinets even the island and entertainment furniture. You can level and secure 10 times faster than leveling cabinets. Once leveled your base cabinet install is 50% faster on average
I've always done them integrated. So glad I tried it on this one. Won't ever do it another way
From another 30 veteran cabinet builder I couldn't agree more. Once you figure this out it sets you free and falls into that categry with all the other simple things that save time and work just fine.
Plus you can move things around easily, just build new level at new location and put cabinet onto it
How I wish I’d known about this elementary concept when I built a workbench for my other hobbies… it’s as level as I could get it.
You retiring and going full time content creator is one of the best decisions you've made. Love your stuff, keep it comin.
I appreciate that!
I'm a retired contractor who is now doing woodworking as a hobby and maybe a little supplement retirement income. You would think that they are similar but they are worlds apart at times. As a contractor a miter saw was a must have tool and used all the time and the table saw was a secondary tool that was nice to have sometimes. In woodworking almost the opposite is true, I say almost because I think the miter saw is still very valuable in woodworking. I have watched videos where I'm thinking I can do that on a miter saw so much easier and faster with the same results, and I usually do. Guess I'm just used to using them after all these years. I'm looking for ideas on how to build my miter station in my small shop so will definitely keep this video in mind. Thanks for the videos and I like the humor that you have in them.
I always enjoy your apparent transparency, explanations, and subtle humor. Creators, such as yourself, who share information from evident experience, are the ones I look for when venturing into unfamiliar DIY territory. More importantly, I trust these creators when they explain why they recommend products. I am mentioning this because potential sponsors would do well by their shareholders if they sponsored your channel with Lincoln St. Woodworks-worthy products.
This may seem odd to many, but apart from the tools I use in my shop, I enjoy the visual environment I work in. You do a lot of work in yours, so why not make it look appealing too.
Everyone has their own opinion I guess. But my miter saw is by far the most used tool in the shop. I did a similar setup by building the saw between cabinets so it has one continuous work surface along with a stop block, dust collection, and plenty of lighting. Nice work on your end and I hope you get a ton of use out of it.
"A bank of cabinets that helpful and convenient tool sits on" is a brilliant reframing - and something I needed to hear as I've been on the fence about building a "dedicated" miter saw station. I've been following your channel since you had just a few videos up and as a small shop owner myself, I've learned so much from you. Looking forward to even more content and definitely going on the list for that stop block!
One of your best videos yet man. Glad someone is addressing the “know it alls” that try to tell people what they should or shouldn’t have. By the way, LOVE the walnut. It’s your shop brother, make it how you like it!
I appreciate that!
100% on that one!!
I’ve watched dozens of videos on shop furniture and miter station builds and generally just enjoy those types of videos. But the Cutlist Optimizer tip you just dropped on me is a game changer. Thanks for that!
I have three compound miter saws in my shop, two on shop built carts, and one that folds up contractor style. I teach technical theatre and can't begin to imagine a shop without "chop" saws. Table saws are great, but they are just one tool and can't do everything. I'm also down my cabinet table saw right now due to being in a temporary space.
Wouldn't dream of giving up my panel saw or band saw either. I have a very tiny shop for the tools we use and the amount of scenery we build so nearly everything is on wheels, even our "contractor's" table saw can lift up on casters, and our work tables have locking casters. Every inch of space under every work surface is storage. I think the only universal thing in a wood shop is no one ever has enough space.
Thank you for the spotlight on miter saws. Compound miter saws are great tools, it shines differently from other saws. Like you said, each of us know best what we need in our shops. There really isn't one "right" answer.
I have been woodworking for 20 years and I my miter saw has always been a "go to" tool. That is a great workstation and, for me, it's timely. I have to finally update mine. I used that toe kit concept when I did my kitchen cabinets and it was a game changer. Thanks for the great videos!
You’re one of the best woody tubers on this old platform, great delivery, cheery book, brilliant tips, and fantastically explained.
I love you man, and if you wore a dress, I’d marry you in a heartbeat.
Marvellous!
I heard you out...watched the whole video. I have a small space without a dedicated assembly area...still don't think i will ever have a miter saw in my shop.
You convinced me that you truly believe in it, but still haven't convinced me that i need one.
No miter saw in any shop is nonsense. Love the useful drawers with a miter saw on top! You have a very pleasant face!
I have not set up my miter saw in my new shop yet and while I miss it, I haven't missed it too much.
It's also VERY helpful to have it mobile for trim projects.
I'm currently in the middle of this build, and the plans have been great. Definitely need to go slow, read a few steps ahead, and have a calculator handy - but so far measurements in my build have matched the plans exactly, so it's all fitting together like a glove. I have to make a couple changes to account for some specific situations in my shop, but the plans have been easy to alter where needed. Great work! Also worthy to note - I've made the entire thing without a table saw, as my shop is 110sq ft. Used a track saw and miter saw only, and I've had zero issues making any cut needed!
Your channel is one of my Top Ten Woodworking Channels online. You are informative, honest and engaging with a wicked sense of humor. The solutions for your miter station build were brilliant, and the walnut trim is gorgeous. THANK YOU for sharing your knowledge and experience with us. I wish you continued success. Be well!
Wow, thank you!
The puns, the truths, the little tid bits like acknowledging pocket screws will pull out of line if not careful... even acknowledging heavier drawer slides and camera angles.
You sir, just earned a sub. Usually I don't like a lot of DIY shop guys with fancier tools than I have lmao
I don't normally make comment, however having built many different benches, scramble around for a saw, clamps etc. measure up, only to find that I would continually readjust and at times have unwanted waste. I wish I had this simple setup, decades ago. Thank you, enjoyable to watch and even an old dog learnt a few new tweaks.
Thanks for watching!
Finally someone who actually “gets it”. Your one of the few (if only other) woodworkers who has the same garage “footings” like me. I absolutely HATE them. You cannot push anything flush against the walls and you lose around 3-1/2” of space! Especially, being you already need to have to be out a few feet from the wall as is if your miter saw has “sliding rails”.
They are the WORST
My dude... when starting out in this hobby, you were my first woodworking "like and subscribe" person. You have remained one of my favorites since then!
Not the guy who drinks bourbon??
Very nice build. I got rid of my mitersaw several years ago because I thought I could use the space better. I do miss it, and you have me rethinking things.
I use my miter saw so often I have a big one that stays in my shop and a small one for smaller projects that I can move around.
Those tiny drawers are comical because you would think it’s a waste of time and money to make but I would load them up with marking tools and small tape measures. I love it!
I've been noodling on how to do a miter saw station for years and I think _this_ is the design that will work for me. Well done!!
As a laminate tech for many years I used slats from venetian blinds under the glued laminate to suspend it from touching down. They are thin, easy to clean, stack well in your box, and they are CHEAP! Other folks swear by dowels but I can stack 50 slats in a much smaller space than 50 dowels!
And they don't roll around and fall off the table or counter top.
.Have been doing laminate for more years than I would like to admit, have always used leftover laminate self-edge strips between the glued surfaces. most around 30" and a few around 40" to reach into the back of a inside corner.
my miter saw is an old craftsman ive been lugging around for almost 15 years now...ive never changed the blade and it was a hand me down....a tool i have seriously gotten a ton a value from
I am a huge fan of miter saws. I make mostly smaller items, and honestly use the miter way more than a table saw. Props to using Alms fancy angled drawer!
I have had a Miter Saw for YEARS prior to getting in to actual woodcraft, and I've used it a lot for projects around the house, and am sure i will for wood craft.
Love how the station turend out! I will definitely draw inspiration when i want to redo the pieces that were in place when i bought my house. (Shelves, not a station with a top level with the cutting surface)
i have been doing wood working for about 50 years. my dad taught. me. safety first. well any ways there were very few miter boxes back then. we had a hand miter box a good one though.. but i agree with you that a miter box is a very important tool in my shop. second only to my table saw.. loved the video. thanks. wow walnut.
Great build.
I built mine out of discontinued Rockler steel shop stands on sale for over 50% off and free shipping. Rock solid, easy to level & put a top on, skim the sides with plywood and make some simple doors/drawers. The entire station is about 22' long and I can cut 10' to either side, but you can make it just about any width you'd like.
The entire thing can be disassembled and moved to a new location if needed. It lives along one dedicated basement shop wall and is an absolute necessity for me. It stores nearly all my tools below, with plenty of extra space and I have not even put up cabinets above it yet. Removable fences permit it to double as a pair of benches/tables for working on.
My dad has always had a miter saw in his shop. And having used it as I learned as a beginner I’ll always have one. It’s so nice to set up a stop block for repeatable cuts or to just walk over and quickly make a small cut or just shave off a hair. Some guys don’t find them useful and some do. To each his own
Anyone who says a miter saw isn't accurate clearly never set it up correctly... I love my miter saw! Excellent video as always 👍
My miter saw is very very close to accurate but if I need to be super duper accurate then it's very handy and fast to get the rough size of long lumber and then the exact cut on the table saw. I would not give up my miter saw and if other people do, well good for them.
That "not a miter station" came out really well. Good job LSW!
Miter? Hardly knew'er
Just built a miter saw station very similar yours. Same saw, too! I manufacture custom laminate for my business, so used one of my own laminates for the countertop. I am IN LOVE with having a miter saw station like this! It’s a game changer in my shop. I know you’ll love yours, too.
Gotta admit, one of your better videos. As for miter saws, oh heck yeah. I've been in construction for way too long, easily portable table saws are a must, miter saws are equally important. From framing to finish, a miter saw is used daily. On large projects with several guys working with me doing the finish work, I've been known to set up three miter saws to facilitate work flow. No one ever complained. In my shop, I have one set up a few steps from the table saw. Having used miter saws more than any DIY homeowner and probably more than a few woodshop professionals, yeah, I'll always have one set up. Great build by the way.
I 100% agree with all of your opinions about miter saws! Mine is invaluable.
I’ve been one of those “no miter saw in a small shop” people. I didn’t want to loose the space, but with some of the methods you illustrate in the video I remember it’s not just a “chop saw” to break things down. I’m now considering dedicating a station like this! Thanks
Dude. Best woodworking video I’ve ever seen. Absolute no BS. Love it. I’m relatively new to the craft (9-10yrs) and it’s so refreshing to see your take on things. Spend money where it counts, save money where you can. Some tools should be Festool, others can be Harbor Freight. Not to mention the focus of this video. It got to the point where I was afraid to admit I love my miter saw lest I be lambasted by the nay-sayers on the interwebs. Hell. I’d rather have a tracksaw and a miter and no table saw if I had to choose only two.
Keep up the great work.
I dont know if this is your 1st video/project since you made your big life choices .. but honestly .. you look like a new man ... gl in your efforts
I was a bit mystified about the lack of an extended fence on the top, until l I realized your way gives you a bunch of extra fabulous assembly space!
Thank you for the vid.... I am picking up woodwork as a hobby and you have great tips. Thank you. Love your sarcasm and your sense of humor. Keep up the great work.
You are just the best. There are too many things I want to quote from this to actually do so! Informative and effortless entertaining, you are one of my absolute favs on YT.
Mitre saw was my first big item buy. 12 years later I just bought a table saw and thickness planner.
I'm a baker that loves working with wood in my spare time.
The mills have always been able to help me with that other stuff but now I wanna retire from baking and play with my wood more. 😅
Dude, you've gotten really good at this. I like that you cut to yourself in the booth during the commentary. It's awesome.
I see a different distinction in using my miter saw. Initially, i used my miter saw on a portable sawhorse-style stand so I could stow it when not in use. It was inconvenient to set it up, so I rarely used it except for big projects. I built a permanent mobile stand for it and it is always connected to power and dust collection. It is SO handy to make a quick cut with no setup. Eliminating the setup time was the key to the saw being useful (for me).
Great example of a woodworker who likes nice nice tools, but knows when Ryobi is the way to go. The nail gun is such a great value
I’m thoroughly impressed with the entire conversation to the quality of build! And idc what anyone says a mitre station is absolutely needed! What I love about yours and Michael Alms is it isn’t massive or ridiculous. What I’ve been hesitant on building mine is I don’t have a small large Yet to build into mine like Michael has, plus all the other tools that be taken into consideration when building once that holds a ton of tools besides just the mitre saw. I have a tiny garage that barely fit in a small suv till I dedicated it to wood tools and the greatest need is storage in my case plus a dedicated home for my mitre saw. Not having an accurate fence to break down material is awful and time wasting. A gripe I’ve had for a while are French cleat systems, the idea was nice back when April Wilkerson went heavy on em but the amount of wall space and headache trying to build functional and personalized tool storage, plus the upkeep of cleaning and the many more failures that were tossed out because they either fell off the wall or just didn’t work out wasted a lot of time I could’ve devoted to actual cabinets. That and my ocd hates seeing clutter so anyways I love seeing French cleats hold cabinets and neat storage builds that work out but a small shop needs drawers, cabinets, and roll out/flip top carts plus a mitre saw station that isn’t outrageously massive. Now if table saw benches were more well thought out, less bulky and more multi functional that’d be great
This is perfect timing for me, who is just about to rip out a wall of un-synced cabinets and benches to replace with a miter station setup. I got some really nice insights from this that I will take into account. (Though it will NOT be as elaborate and nice as yours, it may be as practical :))
Thanks! And I very much like the way you question "the common opinion" with common sense.
I do enjoy following you on your journey it’s quite soothing….like a hot cup of coco on a cold day. I have just built a 10x12 workshop in the backyard and starting to set it up with my tools. Floor space is an issue for me. My journey started 2 months ago since I’ve been retired for a few years it was time to start something.
Thanks for bringing us along with you ❤❤
I did the same about two years ago. 12x12 backyard "shop" it's no longer much of shop it's so full of tools and storage bins. Just a plain old storage shed. Anytime i wanna work on a project i pull out the tools and sawhorses. I need a bigger shed.
The Miter saw was probably my most used tool, and prior to my table saw itwas my workhorse of the whole shop
When I use cutlist, I usually enter my stock sheets as 48x48. It's not the most efficient, but cutlist frequently expects you to make 8 foot long cuts along the entire length of the sheet. Cutting your plywood sheets in half and breaking them down from there is way easier and you're far less likely to make mistakes. Obviously this doesn't work for pieces that need to be longer than 4 feet, but it works for most cabinet builds. Worst case scenario you have to buy an extra sheet of plywood for an oversized piece, and then you have some left over for other projects.
I am so thankful I stumbled across your videos. All of them are fun to watch, informative and you are so honest. My husband and I make very simple (and I'm talking VERY simple) wood projects as we don't have anywhere near the amount of tools you have however, I love to watch how you can turn wood into something beautiful. Looking forward to more videos.
I really love the look of the maple! Its really pretty, and its satisfying to see the grain match up.
I love the Madeline reference! I read those books to my kids for so many years. Keep the great content coming!
Gotta say, 13 years into woodworking & haven't needed one yet, but I'll hear you out anyway.
Prove me wrong.
As a diy’r I have a mitre saw, circular saw and a jigsaw.. and I manage to do most things with them.. great video..👍
Very good video. There is more down-to-earth sensible info in this 21+ minute video than in the last 210 minutes of wood working vids I’ve watched here on UA-cam. Great hacks and advice. Oh, and yes…. We are not building rocket ships in our wood shops. That’s a great thought to keep in mind.
Glad you enjoyed it!
I watched the same channels and decided to use the same leveling technique for my kitchen cabinets. Many many steps in the future of my singlehanded DIY renovation project.
Im so glad your making videos again. Im turning my 10x24 shed into my wood shop and you have become very helpful for a lot of tips. Thank you
such a great point about the cutlist optimizer. Something i have struggled with on several projects and never realized the problem with it until you pointed it out.
I sold my mitersaw after not really using it a whole lot except for a time or two every other week to break down rough lumber. Knowing that I’ll be moving into a new place and shop, I knew I needed one again. I’ll need to make a lot of quick cuts as I’m setting everything up. Haven’t moved yet but having one again is so nice . Hopefully I’ll have enough space for a station at my next place. I’ll never make the mistake of not having one again. BTW, the 10in Skil just might be the best value out there. For 230$ after taxes, I am surprised just how great that thing is.
Trying to finish a new small (13x17) shop build where I convinced myself to leave the miter saw on one of those cheap rolling cart things and just use it in the garage. Now I’m rethinking so thanks for that.
The guy who drinks a lot of bourbon...had me laughing on that one. As many videos that are out there, it is cool to see how many woodworkers watch other woodworkers videos!
I have so many comments about most of your video!
First off, great job! Clear and funny!
I was a cabinet maker at two shops, and the first one built everything with integrated toe kicks... such a pain in the ass when you go the the customer's site and had to shim the crap out of one cabinet, and belt sand away another!
The second shop did the toe kicks separately, and install time dropped and so did the stress levels!
As for making quick and dirty shop furniture, I'm of the belief that you should enjoy your time in the shop - spend whatever time and effort you want on it! I like having stuff in the shop that you would find in someone's kitchen.
As to the people who say, "oh, you shouldn't have 'X', and you're not a real woodworker if you use 'Y'.." I stopped following/subscribing to people like that, and you should ignore those comments. I have a medium sized shop at home (Is 24'x 24' medium?), and I can't imagine living without my Bosch miter saw. Any tool that helps you break down stock and square things up is a keeper in my books.
Really nice build. That mitre station is made better, and looks better, than most of the furniture in my house. And a mitre saw is a no brainer for DIYers or hobbyist woodworkers. I live in the UK, work out of a medium sized shed and use my mitre saw every week. I dont have space for a nice station like yours, and have to constantly move it around, but I would never be without it.
I have survived for years with nothing but a miter saw and circular saw. Granted I wasn’t making any fine wood working projects. But for the work I have done, they’ve been invaluable. I could never get rid of my miter saw
Excellent video, I agree with your points regarding having a power miter saw and intend on upgrading to the same saw you have. I really like your miter saw station and your video helped me answer several questions. I plan to start my build after I purchase my new saw and after I remove my radial arm saw from my shop. I’ve used it for two cuts in the past 15 years. Thanks for the great video. I too have a small shop and every square foot is important.
Thanks for sharing
I agree, the miter saw is VERY useful. Wouldn’t be without it now in my small shop. I have the same Bosch miter saw. It is accurate to .004” over a foot. That was with the factory blade, I have a better blade now. I also have the Shop Nation dust collector, great addition when cutting thinner materials. No 4x4s!
just got a miter saw for the first time and hope to make good use of it. thank-you for a well reasoned video
Thanks for proving some of us older workers right!
That black and walnut is a hell of a combo! Looks good.
i use my miter saw the most actually. the quickness of precision just cant be beat
Amazing miter station! The walnut looks great! Thanks for sharing your knowledge and talent!
Thanks! It would have been nice to see some footage of the finished product showcasing the details of the design, workmanship, and materials.
Your videos are very easy to follow, and I really appreciate the disclaimer you give when talking about woodworking.
Love that stop block! And partnering with Izzy just tells me it will be rock solid! Just moved to a new place and building out my shop. Was gonna make a stop but seeing that tells me yo make a temp one til that is available.
man, I am so glad you decided to go full time here! You really are very good at conveying ideas, in a very entertaining, and seemingly genuine way. THANK YOU!
I appreciate that!
I bought one of those dust collectors from shop nation for my miter saw. Love it!
This stop block is everything I’ve wanted for years! Nice work! I’m a huge advocate for t-track behind the fence for this reason alone. Sign me up for four. Two for each side.
I'm not a cabinet maker or any kind of pro woodworker... but I am the guy who regularly does small home furniture and repair stuff from remedial structural woodwork under my floor to building a large fitted modern oak desk for my home office to building nest boxes for hedgehogs in my garden... and I use the mitre saw more often than almost any other tool with the possible exception of a cheap little drill press.
Love your build. Aesthetically pleasing as well as functional. Marc Spagnuolo of the Wood Whisperer said it well I think. As much time as you spend in your shop, there is no reason it shouldn't look nice. I also agree that the miter saw is an important piece of shop equipment. 👍
I love the upgraded miter station. Huge upgrade in functionality, I will definitely keep some of these design principles in mind as I build my first miter station soon. Well done John! It has been a joy watching this channel grow, keep it up!
Travis did an awesome job with his design of the dust collection and I know this because his was the 2nd dust collection I purchased because the first one from another 3D print maker imploded !!! Great video love your stuff and the project manager was the best addition!!!!
I totally agree, when you have a machine set up, whether you need to trim, route or cut something else, you sometimes need another option. Just like having one or two extra routers once your router table is set up for particular job.
Absolutely!
Oh yeah, that Kreg 520 is my favorite so far. So versatile, I’m good with the lack of dust collection in exchange for the ability to bring it to the work piece
that continuous grain drawer thing is baller. nicely done man
Thanks for the tips. Just started watching you and am impressed, I grew up on Norm and it’s great to find someone in his caliber.
9:12 thanks for the affirmation, It's really nice to know I'm doing it right too.
Terrific video and moves fast. Love the philosophical tidbits and self-reflection moments. Looking to remodel my table saw table to also serve as a miter saw station as well (space limitations). This gave me some good ideas. Thank you!
Grüß dich Jon,
my shop is more or less the same size as yours kinda 3 x 5 meters, what ever it is in imperial... But I use as well a garage and cars are more or less the same size...
I love your build, and I totally agree. A miter saw ist definitely a must have. At least for my needs. For 4 years I had a fixed station. Due to my f*in' neighbor I needed to change my shop organization, maybe you remember it from our private conversation...
In my new shop, I need to build everything smaller and mobile, in case I'd need to empty my shop again...
I'll go for a mobile cart version with fold down wings... I know I will miss my old stand, but better than nothing...
Good luck with your new full time job ✊
Viele Grüße vom Garagen Gio
That was one of your best videos yet - brilliant. One day you're going to be rich and have a large shop but please don't ditch the small shop issues. I would imagine that a lot of people (like me) only have and ever will have a small space to work in.
Don't worry - I plan on staying a small shop guy. Maybe a 2 car garage one day....
can't find your update video but I believe you mentioned you worked corporate sports memorabilia sales or something.. it's really cool to see how you use those skills to connect and navigate the youtube woodworking community. I'm in quite a few youtube communities and I have never seen someone do what you are doing which is to connect, support, reference and bring in other creators all the time in every video you have.. I think it is something I like most about your channel.
So happy you went full time with this, you're very skilled at what you do. Also the miter station is 10/10
Thank you very much - I appreciate you noticing that
Hey! I upgraded to a miter saw from a radial arm saw. Or better known as a finger removal tool. :)
I still have the radial arm saw though. If you use it with care it is very versatile.
Be safe. Celebrate after the project is done!
One of the best pieces of shop furniture I've seen. Looks great!
My sliding miter saw requires a lot of space; the fence is 23" from the end of the slide. So I purchased a portable stand that can be placed anywhere and that has extensions nearly 5' either side of the blade. The ability to move my saw around is essential in my shop. As is the saw itself.
Great, now I have to get that dust collection upgrade. We have the same saw. I got it because of the low footprint vs rail-based design. Turns out it is really easy to reconfigure and vastly more accurate than a contractor-grade saw.
My new shop gets a miter saw spot and radial arm saw station. Can't wait.