I taught highschool woodworking for over 25 years. NEVER had a student lose any appendages. I definitely had some close calls but some of the rules I made up, prevented it from happening. As in roll your fingers under, DON'T run your left hand passed the table saw blade!!! About 90 percent of the time on a table saw, you need to stand to the left side of the blade. That makes it easier to apply pressure towards the fence. The roll your fingers under, probably saved a student almost every finger on his left hand!!! It took me a VERY long time to figure that out. When he had the accident, the blade ran up his first finger on his left hand and came out close to the end of the finger. It didn't hit the bone, or nerves and stayed in between the outer skin and the bone. He'd done SEVERAL things Wrong. He Didn't get checked off by me. He ran his left hand past the blade. He was DEFINITELY in a hurry. AND he DIDN'T set the blade height!!! It was 3/4"+ above the wood he was cutting on. The rule of rolling your fingers under saved his Heineken!! He DID abide by that one rule and it probably saved almost ALL his fingers! That's why the blade ran up his first finger, like it did. After I finally figured out EVERYTHING about the accident, I felt pretty good about figuring out that rule. I also taught my students that usually it wasn't just breaking one rule that caused an accident, but usually about 3 strikes and you're there man/woman. In the accident I mentioned, he broke several and was lucky/blessed it wasn't a terrible accident.
Nice! I worked wood for decades, stopped for over a year, getting started again. Your video is a good refresher. Safety review is always worth the time. Thank you!
Steve, you're saving my life with this. I've watched other woodworking channels and I feel completely lost in the sauce. Every time I watch one I feel like I need to watch two more to fully understand the one I just watched. Not with your videos. I'm learning a ton and feeling more confident when it comes to diy projects. Don't stop making these vids!
Just found your channel ❤️ for years I have wanted to use my husband’s table saw ( by my self) and after watching your video... I did it!!! I love it! The whole time your voice was coaching me. I am by trade a studio potter but wood working is a super new journey. I made a 8 foot patio pub table for our deck! Thank you!
66 y.o. retired, decided to take up woodworking. Mostly been playing with how to make cuts with my circular saw, even made a crosscut jig which came out ok. With a slightly bigger project in mind, went out and bought some boards and a home table saw. Scared to death of this thing. Feeling slightly more at ease and much better educated after watching this video. I'll watch it and your other recommended vids a thousand times and hopefully I can get started soon. Thanks Steve!
I got a job in a carpenter shop in my late 20’s. When the supervisor showed me around the commercial table saw he turned around to the wall behind us and pointed out the big dent in the wall had been made by a flying chunk of wood. This made a big impression on me so even four decades later, I remember this every time I fire up my home table saw.
Your video is a great booster for people looking at getting into woodworking. Not many have been through courses that teach safe operation, and not many have the experience to judge for themselves. I have often wanted to start a woodworking school, might be a good business! But there is definitely a need for more than one blade! Different materials, different blade. I have blades worth $250 a piece, and blades worth $50 a piece.. depends what I'm doing. I have seen some wild table saw kickback.. as an industry professional, business owner, 12 years experience on 5hp table saws, I have seen it all. -I dodged a stick that flew through 4 layers of scrap plywood standing against the wall and took a 4 inch diameter by 1 inch deep chunk out of the concrete block wall behind it. -I've had sticks go through my pants an underwear.. nearly castrated, but all parts still in tact. -I just about lost an eye 3 weeks ago.. the headaches just finally stopped.. wear your safety glasses folks!! -I've dropped my push stick on the blade and it slapped my chest so hard it left a clear outline for over 24 hours.. -I've had full 4x8 sheets of melamine kick back so hard both my hands got sliced from the edges while I laid force into it to stall the blade. .. And those are just the significant things I can remember right now, and doesn't include what I have seen others do right in front of me.. yes i have watched body parts get eliminated, and seen people nearly killed... But you know as they say... Safety 3rd!!
+Jessie Hachey I don't think new woodworkers need $250 blades. Be safe! It sounds like you've had a lot of safety incidents. Or at least a ton of bad luck! :-o
I'm a doctor, and during my time on the E and D a saw an astounding amount of table-saw accidents, almost weekly. Every time someone comes in with their fingers in a bag, they are disabled for life, and it only takes a second of being nonchalant. Last week someone sliced their palm in two from pinky to ring finger, clean off, only the thumb was left unharmed. Again, disabled for life. Be safe man, it makes all the difference.
justcallmegod2 the people you see from all those accidents must be these liberal retards don't know how to do anything but read a book and listen to people that give him bad information
I appreciate your videos- fast paced straight to the point and extremely thorough! I’m just begging my wood working journey so thank you for all your videos!
I think it's important to stay at least a little afraid of the table saw. I can't tell you how many times I've hit my finger with my random orbit sander, but I've never gotten my fingers anywhere near a saw blade. The reason is simple, I don't fear my sander, but I am pretty terrified of my saw. I can still get my work done, but MAN, am I laser focused on the task whenever I'm at the saw.
and explain to everyone around (kids, wife, husband, etc) to not approach or talk to you while cutting at the table saw. especially if you wear hearing protection. imagine getting startled from someone walking up on you from behind and tapping you on the shoulder. a second of not being focussed at the saw blade and where your hands are can have serious consequences.
I agree with a "little fear" of the table saw is a good thing although it could just be semantics with your preference of "respect". A little fear should make you slow down and think through your cut ... same as a with a chain saw. Safer.
Call it "minor fear" or "respect" We probably mean the same thing. Personally, I wouldn't use the "fear" wording what so ever. The exact same mentality applies to any form of "risky" activity. I'm a mountain biker during summer and I sometimes do downhill skiing during the winter. What does this have to do with using powertools? The only times I have accidents on the bike or while skiing are during the "easy" parts of the Downhill run. Why? Because I percieve them as easy, and stop focusing. The most dangerous parts of the run is where I'm super focused. As a result I hardly ever fall or slip when the terrain gets really rough. TL;DR: It's not easier to do a mistake on the table saw, but the consequences are far greater. As a result you focus more using the table saw, and have less accidents.
Dave Starr Dave I was safely on the exit side when a half inch piece of ceder kicked back.. it was a six foot projectile and it went flying into a wood fence 30 foot away. thwack . RESPECT this machine.. I think it is a good policy to walk on the exit side when using the table saw.. I have been hit a few times but they have been minor. no book will tell you everything.
My brother is a board certified plastic surgeon and has a speciality in hands. You don't believe how many times he's called in on or a few days after Christmas from guys chopping off all their fingers with a table or mitre saw. I just bought a table saw today and am suitably wary.
Steve, I am a late comer to your page. I only recently "stumbled upon it" a couple of days ago. I am hooked! I have always tinkered with small woodworking projects (that can barely be called "woodworking projects"), and it has always been a great stress reliever from my career in the emergency medical services (EMS). I know the very basics, and am eager to grow my knowledge and expand my skills (and projects). Well, last Christmas (2015) my partner and I were ambushed on a call. Long story short (14 months and 9 surgeries later), I'm no longer able to continue in the 25+ year career that I LOVE. I am now spending my time between doctor appointments and physical therapy appointments turning my 4 car garage in to a "real" workshop. Your videos have been fantastic: both entertaining and quite informative. I've been binging for the past couple of days. Sorry for the mini novella, but I wanted to say thanks for the hard work you put in to these videos, and for sharing your knowledge!
I've done tons of woodworking jobs at my camp the past 6 months and this summer I'm running our wood shop! Your videos have been a tremendous help! Also just used a table saw for the first time today and felt confident after watching your video!
Having been a woodworker for a while, I knew all the basics you presented, but I still loved the presentation. And I think newer woodworkers will really appreciate your clear explanations. Thanks.
I found this video very helpful. Im a woman, who 6 months ago considered my cordless screwdriver & hot glue gun to be "power tools". Today, thanks to good instructional videos (and my HD credit card) Im building my own custom kitchen cabinets and laying tile. Ive watched a ton of how to videos. Unlike most of the power tool videos on YT, this guy gave lots of useful and practical instruction, good visual examples and clear videography that I could actually see. And most importantly for me, info that was "to the point" and free from the useless rhetoric and hem-haw blabber I typically find. I bought a new table saw a month ago and got it all set up, but so far Ive been too scared to use it.... other than as an extender to my table top work surface while still using my circular saw and guide-rail for rip cuts!! Not exactly what I had in mind. Anyway, this video gave me knowledge and a boost of confidence. Its a baby step...but a step forward nonetheless.
Steve, thank you so incredibly much for this video. I can't tell you how important these tips were to me. The most significant one for me was always thinking, for every cut, where your hands will be throughout the cut. I was once in my uncle's shop with him. I practically had to demand eye protection and he then free-handed a cut on a 6" piece of wood on the tablesaw. So hearing you, a woodworker I respect, talk about the importance of these kinds of things is extremely reassuring.
I just started wood working and finished my first project last night...best 3 hours I've had in a long time! I have to thank you for that Steve..appreciate your videos very much! As for the table saw..mine will be delivered tomorrow and to be honest I'm terrified of it before even opening the box BUT I'm watching videos like this over and over again lol
I'm in the same boat! I finished my first project last week, and I used just a hand saw (no motor). Now, I just bought a table saw for my 2nd (and all future) projects. I'm definitely scared to use it, so I'm watching a ton of videos and taking notes! Q1: have you started sawing yet? Q2: which safety resources/vids/websites are your favorites?
@@CT99999 Oh yeah I use it daily.. honestly if you just watch a few table saw safety videos and follow the rules you are good to go. Also, because it is so dangerous to not follow safety guidelines I put a reminder in my phone that comes up once a month to watch a table saw safety video. Don't want to get to comfortable ya know lol
I've been cutting on a table saw for 60 years and it never gets old listening to good safety advice. Only by the grace of God do I still have all my fingers. 2 weeks ago, I had a rip cut to make on a piece that was less than an inch wide. I started the cut and when my fingers got about 5 inches from the blade, I pulled back with a slight cold sweat at my forehead. I couldn't believe what I was about to do. I then went over to my scrap plywood pile and retrieved a small piece of 1/4" ply. In five minutes, I had cut out my first bush stick and finished that cut I was about to run my fingers through. Since then, I always make all cuts with that scrap wood that is less than about 8 inches wide. I think I will, when I get my shop sorted out, be buying one of those Gripper push blocks for the larger cuts.
I can't tell you how much I enjoy these videos. You're a normal person who is teaching woodworking. Most people are way too serious about it and aren't enjoyable to watch. I'd love to get your recommendation on how to make a table saw runoff table since I have a tiny table saw that's not very good. Ryobi decided to put tabs in the miter slots so it's next to impossible to create a crosscut sled so I gotta Jerry rig things for now until I get the DeWalt table saw. So for now, i wanna know how to properly build a runoff table.
Thank you for your content. I am a long-time metal worker who was trained by an old blacksmith. I really thought that I was a craftsman because I could build anything out of metal. I was very much humbled when I decided to take up woodworking. WOW! I had no idea how much precision wood requires compared to metal. For someone who is accustomed to perfection, it is hard to start over again. Your videos made it more manageable to be okay with making mistakes.
Steve I appreciate your videos. I am 32 years old and decided to build my own garage/man cave bar. Your videos have really helped me and made me feel more confident. I'm excited to get started and hopefully do many more projects. Thanks ago. Also subscribed.
Hey Steve thanks for the safety tips! I think you are correct in saying that most injuries are from kickback. The only injury I have had was from kickback. My saw threw a big piece of wood into my face resulting in a broken jaw and 4 teeth knocked out... Anyways, you live and you learn. -Mike
Just gotta say I love your channel. I'm new to woodworking and got injured by a chunk of wood that was kicked back at me. I retired the table very shortly after (It is my grandfathers,its very old). This makes me more a lot more comfortable using it.
Christa Beery Well according to his "for mere mortals" philosophy the jig saw might be a good one. I bet Steve isn't using the jig saw that much. More the bandsaw for those purposes. But if you have a big panel the jig saw is better.
+SE45CX I'm afraid I don't understand what you mean that Steve isn't much either? What purposes do you mean? Big panel the jig saw is better? I'm completely lost to your meaning.
+Christa Beery Sorry for my not so correct english. I made some edits to the previous post. I think because Steve has a bandsaw, he isn't using the jig saw that much because the two machines are comparable in their functionality. That with one caveat: a stationary machine like a bandsaw is more suitable for small workpieces (also providing more accuracy) and a jig saw is more suitable for large workpieces. Now most "for mere mortals" are buying a jig saw first if they start in woodworking so the jig saw is a good one in my eyes for Steve to discuss in a possible next WWMM basics video. Thanks, you're right to be more clear in my message.
Thank you so much for clearing all that up! I completely understand. I bought a jig saw because it seemed far less 'scary' than a bandsaw to start with, and it was less of a investment. I'd love some tips like what were given in this video for the table saw.
I have been watching your videos now for 3 years and I am very impressed the way you explain things. Thanks for the much needed advice that I need to learn about woodworking.
Hi Steve I have a table saw I would love to use more but the rip fence is awful it only goes half way down the way and moves side to side is there any chance you would make a video on building a fence preferably making it not using a table saw ?
New woodworker here. SO many videos are confusing for the sake of being confusing. You have been super clear and helpful, even for newbies. Thank you so much!
Not just for getting you started usinga table saw, but also a freindly reminder on tips using the table saw. Thanks Steve greatly appreciated, and also for all the content you produce. Hvala (Thank You) all the way from Dubrovnik.
Much better than anything else I've found anywhere about using table saws. Steve Ramsey covers an awful lot in just over 8 minutes but, when coupled with appropriate images, what he says makes complete sense. He's got a deep well of knowledge about things people need to know and his "show" is perfectly paced. Well done. I've subscribed.
Hey Steve, great video and some really handy tips to help keep people safer, I think you first comment about confidence but also respect is important. I notice you didn't mention dado blade stacks... here in the UK you can't buy them and table saw arbours are too small. It also mentions, that under no circumstances are you to make dado cuts in the manual, of course these require the removal of the riving knife. What are your recommendations, other than using a router?
Steve has videos up showing how to make dado's with only a single blade. One was his build of a twin size bed, he made it with half lap joints, very similar to dado's
+Big Dog Rick Hi Rick, thanks. I know you can with a single blade, but this still requires removing the riving knife. I guess like with anything... as long as you exercise caution and underdstand it's at your own risk. I could be wrong, but I suspect with sheet lumber and cutting dados, as long as you stand one side of the blade and use push sticks, it's relatively safe?
+Edward Holmes Usually with dado's you would be using a miter gauge, so as long as you hold the wood firmly against the gauge, it would be alright to take the riving knive off....
+Edward Holmes A router with a parallel guide jig for dadoes makes a better dado anyway. Because you use the actual workpiece to set the width of cut, it's always perfect. A table saw is unnecessary, and there's a reason why the EU Safety Police don't want you doing that.
+Edward Holmes A router with a parallel guide jig for dadoes makes a better dado anyway. Because you use the actual workpiece to set the width of cut, it's always perfect. A table saw is unnecessary, and there's a reason why the EU Safety Police don't want you doing that.
One of the greatest woodworking videos so far. Very instructive and entertaining. I'll be making my first woodwork project next saturday, wish me luck!
Steve, I am new to this hobby. And with your encouragement, enthusiasm and approach to tasks, I've taken to it like a duck to water. I am really happy that you are my contemporary and I, am, an avid fan of yours. Ta mate
I still remember watching that kickback video when it first came out and I have NO DESIRE to ever do something like that. That guy was SO CLOSE to losing that hand.
I think he might have lost a nail tip for sure, if not a groove or two in his fingers because it sure as hell looked like those fingertips kissed that blade.
Bessemer make a excellent fence but very price an it fit old craftsman from sears contractor saw delta bought bessermer out few years ago but are available in 2017
In addition to thinking about my cuts and where my hands will be, I'll sometimes practice my cuts two or three times just to double check that my work piece won't catch on anything while making the cut. Just to reiterate on kickback: I only used a *small* stop block because I was cutting a very small piece. Despite the size of the part I was cutting I still have a healthy scar from when it flew off the table saw and struck me on my wrist. The gouge in my wrist was deep enough that if my hand had been just an inch to the right, I would've bled out before an ambulance could've arrived. I'm not saying this to scare people away, but to remind them that half measures are just as bad as not taking any precautions at all.
Oh wow, I appreciate the comment. Can you elaborate? What happened in your accident? You were using a small stop block, and you're saying that was the issue? Had you used a properly sized block, the accident would have been prevented? Sorry for your injury!
I have now bought myself my very first table saw very excited to use it as a lot of the youtubers I watch have got one and most of there projects look so much easier using a table saw thanks for the video:)
NOTE: THERE ARE 2 SAWS you respect and it'll will BE good to you but you. highly respect and learn from some somebody. that knows what they're doing that is the table saw and the radial arm saw there are even more dangerous if you use them correctly and know what you're doing there great tools if you have fear of them that's great cause fear is common sense it tells you something is wrong or beware have somebody or take classes to learn that be safe with these two tools it's not like a circular saw , not like a drill. ,they can be dangerous. ,highly dangerous and I emphasize highly dangerous if you don't know what you're doing they're not hard to learn they're actually easy got to learn the little things like this demonstration was really great for beginners nice job
Excellent explanation, but there is one thing that in my opinion is wrong. There is a noticeable difference between using a crosscut and a general purpose (and ripping) blade. The way you said it could cause some confusion about the different blades and make people think, that there's no need for having a different blade than a general purpose one, which is not the case.
I have a few of all three blades, but only use the crosscut or ripping blade when I know I am going to do an excessive amount of one or the other activities. For normal day to day time in the shop a GP blade does the job because the time lost changing out blades for one or two cuts of a particular kind would kill my productivity.
+pferoxtheskeeterguy I always use the right blade for the job when the surface will be glued or is any sort of other finishing cut. Else I use the cheapest blade I got. No point in wearing out a proper blade for a cut where the quality doesn't matter. But then, I am neither working against the clock nor have any haste in what I'm doing since for me this is a hobby not a profession. That said, I find that a cross cutting blade (72 teeth, 250mm/10inch) leaves a better surface when only shaving, i.e. cutting less then its kerf of a piece, in a rip cut. Even in spruce there is hardly a difference to a jointed face.
Steve, Just watched again! First time was months before I bought my table saw. Purchased the DeWalt 7485 last week and looking forward to using it SAFELY! Can’t thank you enough!
Very new to woodworking, so new that I've just made my own out feed/ miter saw table for my basement. I appreciate the videos and more importantly the safety tips. Table saws have always scared me , even being in construction, using huge concrete saws and things alike, table saws get a bad wrap and that's intimidating. Thank you for the confidence, I look forward to learning as much as possible from you veterans . Keep up the awesome work!
I have just started with a table saw, and the tips you have just shared are fantastic, I will make sure I stick to all of them, thank you mate, Ade from England.😀
I just got a bunch of woodworking tools from my dad who is giving it up for health reasons. I know the basics, but need some help on table saw and router. these videos are my go to. I watch you and nick Offerman and that's it. keep up the awesome work
Steve I want to start to make my own woodworking shop at my garage. I would love to know why is so important the table saw and I wonder if I could just be fine with a circular saw and a miter saw?
Steve, your show is appropriately named. Anyone wishing to learn much of anything about woodworking should consider your instruction and youtube channel as vital. Yes, there are many options out there, but I sense in your presentation a helping spirit and not just a teacher of how to do things. It seems to me you remember your roots, who you started, and how you failed as you developed skill and confidence-great information in this video as I am now in the process of buying my first table saw. I just retired and needed a project and also did small projects, now I have the time to improve and get more aggressive in my builds. Thanks again, Steve.
I'm planning to add a table saw to my skillset this winter and this answered some of my most basic questions. Thank you so much. I still need to brush up on how to avoid kickback of the loose piece at the end of a crosscut, but my comfort level has increased significantly.
I bought a basic saw for $30 at a charity fund raising shop. I have no idea what to do, and I am looking for safe and credible ways to use it. This is one of the best video in terms of safety and applications. Thank you very much.
Great Vid. I am retired after many many years of being an OTR truck driver. I did most of my repairs myself (Except for emergencies when I wasn't at home) Never used a table saw, but plan on buying one real soon. Want to build things that my handy jigsaw just can't do. I plan on saving this vid as a great reference. Thanks and I like that safety device, plan on getting that. I like my fingers, had em for years.
thanks for the video. the kickback video was also helpful because the guy talks about everything that was going on and shows various angles. respect your tools
Great video Steve. Just bought a table saw and you were my go to channel to understand how it operates. Made quite a few cuts now and still have all of my fingers!
Hi Steve, wish I knew then what I know now. I was ripping a 2X4 on my table saw and the saw kicked back - unbelievably the wood it fired out grazed my arm and penetrated eight inches through a resin door that was about twenty feet away. It made so much noise and happened so fast that I ended up looking round the shop to see where it had gone - the blood drained from face when I saw it sticking out of the door - it was like something out of a cheap movie. Your video is great, exactly what beginners need to know. I'm still a bit wary about using my table saw, but your comments about always giving some thought as to what you are about to do make feel a little more confident. Thanks for this Steve, your safety tips may be more valuable than anyone realizes. Jim.
My husband won’t teach me to use the wood working power tools as he’s afraid I’ll hurt myself. I understand that and appreciate his concerns. But I’m learning so much from you regarding safety; I’m feeling really confident in giving it a try. I’m going to HD and asking for scrap wood so I can try while he’s at work. I’m GREAT at trusting my gut. I’m a silversmith. Thank you. I’ll watch each of your videos at least 3 times and take notes so I embed your info my mind.
Excelent, I am planning to buy a table saw and your tips come in quite handy ;-) you are one of the few people on the internet with not only wood skils, your way of explaining things is even for someone from the Netherlands very easy to understand. Love to see more items. Grtz from the Netherlands.
Just got a table saw for Christmas... Late to the show, but some of your techniques are great! And safe! Thank you, sir! The kickback video was insane! I only watched it once and couldn't watch it again!
I taught highschool woodworking for over 25 years. NEVER had a student lose any appendages. I definitely had some close calls but some of the rules I made up, prevented it from happening. As in roll your fingers under, DON'T run your left hand passed the table saw blade!!! About 90 percent of the time on a table saw, you need to stand to the left side of the blade. That makes it easier to apply pressure towards the fence. The roll your fingers under, probably saved a student almost every finger on his left hand!!! It took me a VERY long time to figure that out. When he had the accident, the blade ran up his first finger on his left hand and came out close to the end of the finger. It didn't hit the bone, or nerves and stayed in between the outer skin and the bone. He'd done SEVERAL things Wrong. He Didn't get checked off by me. He ran his left hand past the blade. He was DEFINITELY in a hurry. AND he DIDN'T set the blade height!!! It was 3/4"+ above the wood he was cutting on. The rule of rolling your fingers under saved his Heineken!! He DID abide by that one rule and it probably saved almost ALL his fingers! That's why the blade ran up his first finger, like it did. After I finally figured out EVERYTHING about the accident, I felt pretty good about figuring out that rule. I also taught my students that usually it wasn't just breaking one rule that caused an accident, but usually about 3 strikes and you're there man/woman. In the accident I mentioned, he broke several and was lucky/blessed it wasn't a terrible accident.
Nice! I worked wood for decades, stopped for over a year, getting started again. Your video is a good refresher. Safety review is always worth the time. Thank you!
Your a born teacher Steve; you have a way of teaching without preaching. I really appreciate your work and style.
Amen, he is doing the lords work! education is a gift!
Seven years later, this video is still helping mere mortals learn new skills and stay safe at the same time. Thank you!
Steve, you're saving my life with this. I've watched other woodworking channels and I feel completely lost in the sauce. Every time I watch one I feel like I need to watch two more to fully understand the one I just watched. Not with your videos. I'm learning a ton and feeling more confident when it comes to diy projects. Don't stop making these vids!
Steve, your clear directions, high energy, sense of humor, and organized approach make your videos timeless and wonderful. Thank you!
Just found your channel ❤️ for years I have wanted to use my husband’s table saw ( by my self) and after watching your video... I did it!!! I love it! The whole time your voice was coaching me. I am by trade a studio potter but wood working is a super new journey. I made a 8 foot patio pub table for our deck! Thank you!
😎 Cool!
66 y.o. retired, decided to take up woodworking. Mostly been playing with how to make cuts with my circular saw, even made a crosscut jig which came out ok. With a slightly bigger project in mind, went out and bought some boards and a home table saw. Scared to death of this thing. Feeling slightly more at ease and much better educated after watching this video. I'll watch it and your other recommended vids a thousand times and hopefully I can get started soon. Thanks Steve!
This is one of the most important videos I watched as a relatively new user (or rather, new owner) of a table saw. Thanks.
I got a job in a carpenter shop in my late 20’s. When the supervisor showed me around the commercial table saw he turned around to the wall behind us and pointed out the big dent in the wall had been made by a flying chunk of wood. This made a big impression on me so even four decades later, I remember this every time I fire up my home table saw.
Your video is a great booster for people looking at getting into woodworking. Not many have been through courses that teach safe operation, and not many have the experience to judge for themselves. I have often wanted to start a woodworking school, might be a good business!
But there is definitely a need for more than one blade! Different materials, different blade. I have blades worth $250 a piece, and blades worth $50 a piece.. depends what I'm doing.
I have seen some wild table saw kickback.. as an industry professional, business owner, 12 years experience on 5hp table saws, I have seen it all.
-I dodged a stick that flew through 4 layers of scrap plywood standing against the wall and took a 4 inch diameter by 1 inch deep chunk out of the concrete block wall behind it.
-I've had sticks go through my pants an underwear.. nearly castrated, but all parts still in tact.
-I just about lost an eye 3 weeks ago.. the headaches just finally stopped.. wear your safety glasses folks!!
-I've dropped my push stick on the blade and it slapped my chest so hard it left a clear outline for over 24 hours..
-I've had full 4x8 sheets of melamine kick back so hard both my hands got sliced from the edges while I laid force into it to stall the blade.
.. And those are just the significant things I can remember right now, and doesn't include what I have seen others do right in front of me.. yes i have watched body parts get eliminated, and seen people nearly killed...
But you know as they say... Safety 3rd!!
+Jessie Hachey I don't think new woodworkers need $250 blades.
Be safe! It sounds like you've had a lot of safety incidents. Or at least a ton of bad luck! :-o
LOL tons... Cheers!
I'm a doctor, and during my time on the E and D a saw an astounding amount of table-saw accidents, almost weekly. Every time someone comes in with their fingers in a bag, they are disabled for life, and it only takes a second of being nonchalant. Last week someone sliced their palm in two from pinky to ring finger, clean off, only the thumb was left unharmed. Again, disabled for life. Be safe man, it makes all the difference.
justcallmegod2 the people you see from all those accidents must be these liberal retards don't know how to do anything but read a book and listen to people that give him bad information
Nope, conservatards.
I appreciate your videos- fast paced straight to the point and extremely thorough! I’m just begging my wood working journey so thank you for all your videos!
I think it's important to stay at least a little afraid of the table saw. I can't tell you how many times I've hit my finger with my random orbit sander, but I've never gotten my fingers anywhere near a saw blade. The reason is simple, I don't fear my sander, but I am pretty terrified of my saw. I can still get my work done, but MAN, am I laser focused on the task whenever I'm at the saw.
and explain to everyone around (kids, wife, husband, etc) to not approach or talk to you while cutting at the table saw. especially if you wear hearing protection. imagine getting startled from someone walking up on you from behind and tapping you on the shoulder. a second of not being focussed at the saw blade and where your hands are can have serious consequences.
I agree with a "little fear" of the table saw is a good thing although it could just be semantics with your preference of "respect". A little fear should make you slow down and think through your cut ... same as a with a chain saw. Safer.
Call it "minor fear" or "respect"
We probably mean the same thing. Personally, I wouldn't use the "fear" wording what so ever. The exact same mentality applies to any form of "risky" activity.
I'm a mountain biker during summer and I sometimes do downhill skiing during the winter. What does this have to do with using powertools?
The only times I have accidents on the bike or while skiing are during the "easy" parts of the Downhill run. Why? Because I percieve them as easy, and stop focusing. The most dangerous parts of the run is where I'm super focused. As a result I hardly ever fall or slip when the terrain gets really rough.
TL;DR: It's not easier to do a mistake on the table saw, but the consequences are far greater. As a result you focus more using the table saw, and have less accidents.
Dave Starr Dave I was safely on the exit side when a half inch piece of ceder kicked back.. it was a six foot projectile and it went flying into a wood fence 30 foot away. thwack . RESPECT this machine.. I think it is a good policy to walk on the exit side when using the table saw.. I have been hit a few times but they have been minor. no book will tell you everything.
My brother is a board certified plastic surgeon and has a speciality in hands. You don't believe how many times he's called in on or a few days after Christmas from guys chopping off all their fingers with a table or mitre saw. I just bought a table saw today and am suitably wary.
Steve, I am a late comer to your page. I only recently "stumbled upon it" a couple of days ago. I am hooked! I have always tinkered with small woodworking projects (that can barely be called "woodworking projects"), and it has always been a great stress reliever from my career in the emergency medical services (EMS). I know the very basics, and am eager to grow my knowledge and expand my skills (and projects). Well, last Christmas (2015) my partner and I were ambushed on a call. Long story short (14 months and 9 surgeries later), I'm no longer able to continue in the 25+ year career that I LOVE. I am now spending my time between doctor appointments and physical therapy appointments turning my 4 car garage in to a "real" workshop.
Your videos have been fantastic: both entertaining and quite informative. I've been binging for the past couple of days. Sorry for the mini novella, but I wanted to say thanks for the hard work you put in to these videos, and for sharing your knowledge!
I've done tons of woodworking jobs at my camp the past 6 months and this summer I'm running our wood shop! Your videos have been a tremendous help! Also just used a table saw for the first time today and felt confident after watching your video!
Hands down the most down-to-earth woodworking teacher on UA-cam. Always excellent quality content. Super clear and concise.
Having been a woodworker for a while, I knew all the basics you presented, but I still loved the presentation. And I think newer woodworkers will really appreciate your clear explanations. Thanks.
I found this video very helpful. Im a woman, who 6 months ago considered my cordless screwdriver & hot glue gun to be "power tools".
Today, thanks to good instructional videos (and my HD credit card) Im building my own custom kitchen cabinets and laying tile. Ive watched a ton of how to videos. Unlike most of the power tool videos on YT, this guy gave lots of useful and practical instruction, good visual examples and clear videography that I could actually see. And most importantly for me, info that was "to the point" and free from the useless rhetoric and hem-haw blabber I typically find.
I bought a new table saw a month ago and got it all set up, but so far Ive been too scared to use it.... other than as an extender to my table top work surface while still using my circular saw and guide-rail for rip cuts!! Not exactly what I had in mind. Anyway, this video gave me knowledge and a boost of confidence. Its a baby step...but a step forward nonetheless.
Steve, thank you so incredibly much for this video. I can't tell you how important these tips were to me. The most significant one for me was always thinking, for every cut, where your hands will be throughout the cut.
I was once in my uncle's shop with him. I practically had to demand eye protection and he then free-handed a cut on a 6" piece of wood on the tablesaw. So hearing you, a woodworker I respect, talk about the importance of these kinds of things is extremely reassuring.
you are hands down...THE best communicator of table saw basics I have ever seen! Thanks for posting.
I just started wood working and finished my first project last night...best 3 hours I've had in a long time! I have to thank you for that Steve..appreciate your videos very much! As for the table saw..mine will be delivered tomorrow and to be honest I'm terrified of it before even opening the box BUT I'm watching videos like this over and over again lol
I'm in the same boat! I finished my first project last week, and I used just a hand saw (no motor). Now, I just bought a table saw for my 2nd (and all future) projects. I'm definitely scared to use it, so I'm watching a ton of videos and taking notes! Q1: have you started sawing yet? Q2: which safety resources/vids/websites are your favorites?
@@CT99999 Oh yeah I use it daily.. honestly if you just watch a few table saw safety videos and follow the rules you are good to go. Also, because it is so dangerous to not follow safety guidelines I put a reminder in my phone that comes up once a month to watch a table saw safety video. Don't want to get to comfortable ya know lol
I've been cutting on a table saw for 60 years and it never gets old listening to good safety advice. Only by the grace of God do I still have all my fingers. 2 weeks ago, I had a rip cut to make on a piece that was less than an inch wide. I started the cut and when my fingers got about 5 inches from the blade, I pulled back with a slight cold sweat at my forehead. I couldn't believe what I was about to do. I then went over to my scrap plywood pile and retrieved a small piece of 1/4" ply. In five minutes, I had cut out my first bush stick and finished that cut I was about to run my fingers through. Since then, I always make all cuts with that scrap wood that is less than about 8 inches wide. I think I will, when I get my shop sorted out, be buying one of those Gripper push blocks for the larger cuts.
Good stuff Steve, I feel safer already.
+frank howarth You dont even touch wood any more Frank... Everythink started after that CNC machine... haha
+frank howarth Also, your lumber has the power run through power tools by themselves. Doesn't get any safer than that!
I love your videos!
+frank howarth It seemed to work well... :P
thanks, very useful advices
I Just bought a table saw and thought I knew enough about it. I am glad I watched your video!! thank you!
You got rid of my fear and replaced it with respect, this is one of your best videos Thank You
Just buying my first table saw at 71 years old this video is a must for beginers like me thank you Steve.
This was so simple, concise, and practical. Thank you for making it easier and less intimidating to use a table saw!
I can't tell you how much I enjoy these videos. You're a normal person who is teaching woodworking. Most people are way too serious about it and aren't enjoyable to watch. I'd love to get your recommendation on how to make a table saw runoff table since I have a tiny table saw that's not very good. Ryobi decided to put tabs in the miter slots so it's next to impossible to create a crosscut sled so I gotta Jerry rig things for now until I get the DeWalt table saw. So for now, i wanna know how to properly build a runoff table.
Your channel is great. It is really easy to follow for beginners. Thank you.
Thank you for your content. I am a long-time metal worker who was trained by an old blacksmith. I really thought that I was a craftsman because I could build anything out of metal. I was very much humbled when I decided to take up woodworking. WOW! I had no idea how much precision wood requires compared to metal. For someone who is accustomed to perfection, it is hard to start over again. Your videos made it more manageable to be okay with making mistakes.
Thank you! I wish I had you as all of my professors going through school.
Steve I appreciate your videos. I am 32 years old and decided to build my own garage/man cave bar. Your videos have really helped me and made me feel more confident. I'm excited to get started and hopefully do many more projects. Thanks ago. Also subscribed.
Starting with a bar. Not a garage. ;)
Hey Steve thanks for the safety tips!
I think you are correct in saying that most injuries are from kickback.
The only injury I have had was from kickback. My saw threw a big piece of wood into my face resulting in a broken jaw and 4 teeth knocked out...
Anyways, you live and you learn.
-Mike
Michael Volpe ouch ouch ouch.
Hope you recovered just fine.
thabks, it's been 20 years since I last used a table saw. this video helped me get back to the basics and give me confidence using it safely.
I just got a table saw for xmas. and i really needed this! thanks so much!
It will make things a lot easier :D
Just gotta say I love your channel. I'm new to woodworking and got injured by a chunk of wood that was kicked back at me. I retired the table very shortly after (It is my grandfathers,its very old). This makes me more a lot more comfortable using it.
Awesome! Well explained!
Great, informative video! You just saved me 10 years of trial and error using a table saw. Live and learn, or, watch your videos and learn. Shaka!
Fantastic! Thank you for sharing! This was incredibly helpful. Please do more like this. I would love to see a hand held jig saw one next!
Christa Beery Well according to his "for mere mortals" philosophy the jig saw might be a good one. I bet Steve isn't using the jig saw that much. More the bandsaw for those purposes. But if you have a big panel the jig saw is better.
+SE45CX I'm afraid I don't understand what you mean that Steve isn't much either? What purposes do you mean? Big panel the jig saw is better? I'm completely lost to your meaning.
+Christa Beery Sorry for my not so correct english. I made some edits to the previous post. I think because Steve has a bandsaw, he isn't using the jig saw that much because the two machines are comparable in their functionality. That with one caveat: a stationary machine like a bandsaw is more suitable for small workpieces (also providing more accuracy) and a jig saw is more suitable for large workpieces. Now most "for mere mortals" are buying a jig saw first if they start in woodworking so the jig saw is a good one in my eyes for Steve to discuss in a possible next WWMM basics video. Thanks, you're right to be more clear in my message.
Thank you so much for clearing all that up! I completely understand. I bought a jig saw because it seemed far less 'scary' than a bandsaw to start with, and it was less of a investment. I'd love some tips like what were given in this video for the table saw.
+Christa Beery My wood working adventure began with a jig saw - I was in fourth grade!
There is a million vídeos about saw safety for beginners, but it's the more instructive vídeo ever.
More...more...more like this please. Thx and a nice Weekend :-)
I have been watching your videos now for 3 years and I am very impressed the way you explain things. Thanks for the much needed advice that I need to learn about woodworking.
Hi Steve I have a table saw I would love to use more but the rip fence is awful it only goes half way down the way and moves side to side is there any chance you would make a video on building a fence preferably making it not using a table saw ?
Look at Matthias wandel's homemade table saw 2 series. I'm sure you could adapt the concept.
+Banana Guard Mathias is a genius at devising all kinds of things.
Thanks!
Do you actually say the words "Micro Jig"? Or do you just hang and cut to the promo clip? Big fan of the show, love ya!
Often think the same thing
+Rick Spagna thats the joke xD he always uses the same clip
+Daniel Milz I think he's asking if Steve says the words for timing or does he just stop talking and work it out in editing.
New woodworker here. SO many videos are confusing for the sake of being confusing. You have been super clear and helpful, even for newbies. Thank you so much!
شكرا لك
Thank you
Not just for getting you started usinga table saw, but also a freindly reminder on tips using the table saw. Thanks Steve greatly appreciated, and also for all the content you produce. Hvala (Thank You) all the way from Dubrovnik.
You really do have some good ideas..!
Much better than anything else I've found anywhere about using table saws. Steve Ramsey covers an awful lot in just over 8 minutes but, when coupled with appropriate images, what he says makes complete sense. He's got a deep well of knowledge about things people need to know and his "show" is perfectly paced. Well done. I've subscribed.
Hey Steve, great video and some really handy tips to help keep people safer, I think you first comment about confidence but also respect is important.
I notice you didn't mention dado blade stacks... here in the UK you can't buy them and table saw arbours are too small. It also mentions, that under no circumstances are you to make dado cuts in the manual, of course these require the removal of the riving knife. What are your recommendations, other than using a router?
Steve has videos up showing how to make dado's with only a single blade. One was his build of a twin size bed, he made it with half lap joints, very similar to dado's
+Big Dog Rick Hi Rick, thanks. I know you can with a single blade, but this still requires removing the riving knife. I guess like with anything... as long as you exercise caution and underdstand it's at your own risk.
I could be wrong, but I suspect with sheet lumber and cutting dados, as long as you stand one side of the blade and use push sticks, it's relatively safe?
+Edward Holmes Usually with dado's you would be using a miter gauge, so as long as you hold the wood firmly against the gauge, it would be alright to take the riving knive off....
+Edward Holmes A router with a parallel guide jig for dadoes makes a better dado anyway. Because you use the actual workpiece to set the width of cut, it's always perfect. A table saw is unnecessary, and there's a reason why the EU Safety Police don't want you doing that.
+Edward Holmes A router with a parallel guide jig for dadoes makes a better dado anyway. Because you use the actual workpiece to set the width of cut, it's always perfect. A table saw is unnecessary, and there's a reason why the EU Safety Police don't want you doing that.
One of the greatest woodworking videos so far. Very instructive and entertaining. I'll be making my first woodwork project next saturday, wish me luck!
Thought I knew how to use a table saw. Guess I didn't. Great video.
Steve, I am new to this hobby. And with your encouragement, enthusiasm and approach to tasks, I've taken to it like a duck to water. I am really happy that you are my contemporary and I, am, an avid fan of yours. Ta mate
I still remember watching that kickback video when it first came out and I have NO DESIRE to ever do something like that. That guy was SO CLOSE to losing that hand.
I think he might have lost a nail tip for sure, if not a groove or two in his fingers because it sure as hell looked like those fingertips kissed that blade.
This is wonderfully practical! Thank you for taking time and trouble
This is great info, thank you. I feel a little more comfortable with the table saw I have access too.
As a new wood worker with more ideas than know how and/or skills, I really appreciate your videos. Thanks!
What rip fence system is that? I've got an old craftsman and I really need to change the fence system
RunningCorduroy Delta makes a universal fence for about $180.00 38 times better than Crafstman fence
thanks for the reply. that craftsman fence was brutal. i bought a new table saw over the holidays so the problem is "fixed".
Bessemer make a excellent fence but very price an it fit old craftsman from sears contractor saw delta bought bessermer out few years ago but are available in 2017
I am a beginner and this was a well-spent 8 minutes that will most probably save me from an injury.
In addition to thinking about my cuts and where my hands will be, I'll sometimes practice my cuts two or three times just to double check that my work piece won't catch on anything while making the cut.
Just to reiterate on kickback: I only used a *small* stop block because I was cutting a very small piece. Despite the size of the part I was cutting I still have a healthy scar from when it flew off the table saw and struck me on my wrist. The gouge in my wrist was deep enough that if my hand had been just an inch to the right, I would've bled out before an ambulance could've arrived. I'm not saying this to scare people away, but to remind them that half measures are just as bad as not taking any precautions at all.
Oh wow, I appreciate the comment. Can you elaborate? What happened in your accident? You were using a small stop block, and you're saying that was the issue? Had you used a properly sized block, the accident would have been prevented? Sorry for your injury!
I have now bought myself my very first table saw very excited to use it as a lot of the youtubers I watch have got one and most of there projects look so much easier using a table saw thanks for the video:)
NOTE: THERE ARE 2 SAWS
you respect and it'll will BE good to you
but you. highly respect and learn from some somebody. that knows what they're doing
that is the table saw
and the radial arm saw
there are even more dangerous if you use them correctly and know what you're doing there great tools if you have fear of them that's great cause fear is common sense it tells you something is wrong or beware have somebody or take classes to learn that be safe with these two tools it's not like a circular saw , not like a drill. ,they can be dangerous. ,highly dangerous and I emphasize highly dangerous if you don't know what you're doing they're not hard to learn they're actually easy got to learn the little things like this demonstration was really great for beginners nice job
thank you sir, my belly still hurt from a kickback couple days ago. wish I had found your video sooner. all the best to you and your family.
Excellent explanation, but there is one thing that in my opinion is wrong. There is a noticeable difference between using a crosscut and a general purpose (and ripping) blade. The way you said it could cause some confusion about the different blades and make people think, that there's no need for having a different blade than a general purpose one, which is not the case.
I have a few of all three blades, but only use the crosscut or ripping blade when I know I am going to do an excessive amount of one or the other activities. For normal day to day time in the shop a GP blade does the job because the time lost changing out blades for one or two cuts of a particular kind would kill my productivity.
Who cares
+pferoxtheskeeterguy I always use the right blade for the job when the surface will be glued or is any sort of other finishing cut. Else I use the cheapest blade I got. No point in wearing out a proper blade for a cut where the quality doesn't matter. But then, I am neither working against the clock nor have any haste in what I'm doing since for me this is a hobby not a profession.
That said, I find that a cross cutting blade (72 teeth, 250mm/10inch) leaves a better surface when only shaving, i.e. cutting less then its kerf of a piece, in a rip cut. Even in spruce there is hardly a difference to a jointed face.
Steve, Just watched again! First time was months before I bought my table saw. Purchased the DeWalt 7485 last week and looking forward to using it SAFELY! Can’t thank you enough!
A viewer sent you an incra miter gauge? I gotta start making videos...
Good work man.
+jon Q Ain't that the truth!
Very new to woodworking, so new that I've just made my own out feed/ miter saw table for my basement. I appreciate the videos and more importantly the safety tips. Table saws have always scared me , even being in construction, using huge concrete saws and things alike, table saws get a bad wrap and that's intimidating. Thank you for the confidence, I look forward to learning as much as possible from you veterans . Keep up the awesome work!
I can't imagine how many fingers you've saved with this video
Excellent recap of basic principles. I asked my beginners woodworking class to watch it at least once a year as a reminder of good habits.
you covered a lot of questions I i have not asked thanks
I have just started with a table saw, and the tips you have just shared are fantastic, I will make sure I stick to all of them, thank you mate, Ade from England.😀
Do miter saw next 👍🏽 loving the new series
U have
I just got a bunch of woodworking tools from my dad who is giving it up for health reasons. I know the basics, but need some help on table saw and router. these videos are my go to. I watch you and nick Offerman and that's it. keep up the awesome work
Hello, my question to you is what's the name of your tablesaw?
It's an old Porter Cable saw.
Thank you very much for the fast answer.
Steve I want to start to make my own woodworking shop at my garage. I would love to know why is so important the table saw and I wonder if I could just be fine with a circular saw and a miter saw?
Great video Steve. :)
Steve, your show is appropriately named. Anyone wishing to learn much of anything about woodworking should consider your instruction and youtube channel as vital. Yes, there are many options out there, but I sense in your presentation a helping spirit and not just a teacher of how to do things. It seems to me you remember your roots, who you started, and how you failed as you developed skill and confidence-great information in this video as I am now in the process of buying my first table saw. I just retired and needed a project and also did small projects, now I have the time to improve and get more aggressive in my builds. Thanks again, Steve.
First project for everyone with a table saw: a crosscut sledge
I think you're right but I always find myself making a half dozen zero clearance insert plates
Cross cut sled can be dangerous if you don't know how to make one correctly
I'm planning to add a table saw to my skillset this winter and this answered some of my most basic questions. Thank you so much. I still need to brush up on how to avoid kickback of the loose piece at the end of a crosscut, but my comfort level has increased significantly.
who and why would someone dislike this video??
The crabby kind who hate the world...
Great tips. The rip fence stop block is probably the best safety tip for me.
WHAT KIND OF TABLE SAW YOU HAVE?
It's always good to review the basics from time to time.
I bought a basic saw for $30 at a charity fund raising shop. I have no idea what to do, and I am looking for safe and credible ways to use it. This is one of the best video in terms of safety and applications. Thank you very much.
Great Vid. I am retired after many many years of being an OTR truck driver. I did most of my repairs myself (Except for emergencies when I wasn't at home) Never used a table saw, but plan on buying one real soon. Want to build things that my handy jigsaw just can't do. I plan on saving this vid as a great reference. Thanks and I like that safety device, plan on getting that. I like my fingers, had em for years.
The best advice so far, I have been watching UA-cam woodworkers for 1month now...
Merci pour tous ces bons conseils , je débute dans le travail du bois et savoir comment éviter les accidents est toujours bon à savoir.
Steve, hi from Oz (Australia)
Many thanks for your commitment to good education in woodworking. And keeping me alive & intact
Mark
thanks for the video. the kickback video was also helpful because the guy talks about everything that was going on and shows various angles. respect your tools
Thank Steve. True ! understanding how kickbacks occur helps a lot avoiding it. The presentation was, as usual , very clear. I feel more confident
There can never be too much emphasis on table saw safety. Going with your gut is a good rule of thumb. Great video! Now send this to Jimmy.
Great video Steve. Just bought a table saw and you were my go to channel to understand how it operates. Made quite a few cuts now and still have all of my fingers!
Hi Steve, wish I knew then what I know now. I was ripping a 2X4 on my table saw and the saw kicked back - unbelievably the wood it fired out grazed my arm and penetrated eight inches through a resin door that was about twenty feet away. It made so much noise and happened so fast that I ended up looking round the shop to see where it had gone - the blood drained from face when I saw it sticking out of the door - it was like something out of a cheap movie. Your video is great, exactly what beginners need to know. I'm still a bit wary about using my table saw, but your comments about always giving some thought as to what you are about to do make feel a little more confident. Thanks for this Steve, your safety tips may be more valuable than anyone realizes. Jim.
Even advanced carpenters can find your information useful. Thanks very much once again.
New woodworker here, thanks for the video and appreciate your style and way of explaining things...Best Wishes Always
My husband won’t teach me to use the wood working power tools as he’s afraid I’ll hurt myself. I understand that and appreciate his concerns. But I’m learning so much from you regarding safety; I’m feeling really confident in giving it a try. I’m going to HD and asking for scrap wood so I can try while he’s at work. I’m GREAT at trusting my gut. I’m a silversmith. Thank you. I’ll watch each of your videos at least 3 times and take notes so I embed your info my mind.
Excellent. I just bought a table saw after many years without using one. I'm making notes and will hang them by the saw.
Excelent, I am planning to buy a table saw and your tips come in quite handy ;-) you are one of the few people on the internet with not only wood skils, your way of explaining things is even for someone from the Netherlands very easy to understand. Love to see more items. Grtz from the Netherlands.
Just got a table saw for Christmas... Late to the show, but some of your techniques are great! And safe! Thank you, sir! The kickback video was insane! I only watched it once and couldn't watch it again!