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Please consider starting with the note about seeing the second video. I was most of the way through writing a nasty comment about rage bating before I heard that part.
It is so cool that two of my absolute favorites on this subject comment on each other and watch each others' videos. The two of you are huge influences on my fledgling hobby
I have been joining every leg to aprons with biscuits for over 20 years and never has one failed. Dozens of desks, tv stands, end tables, dressers, and book cases and never a failure; even with kids using them.
even though i have a decent biscuit joiner, i use a biscuit sized router bit on my palm router most of the time. more dust, but it goes very quick and reliably.
One caution about biscuit joining. As with all woodworking power tools, never start the tool while touching the object piece. Instead, let the power tool reach high rpm before touching the object piece. Though I know this, sometimes, I've had biscuit joiner already slightly pushed forward when starting it and it jerks the object piece and can be dangerous. No bad accident yet for me, but it's something to be extra vigilant about.
I love how you are always able respectfully present an opposing opinion , you share your viewpoint in a not confrontational constructive manner. That in and of it self is a valuable skill set. That said I saw both of Steve Ramsey videos on this subject I also was impressed with how willing he was to give the tool a second try and re evaluate his position. You both bring something a little different to the community but both bring value ! I enjoy and learn from both channels. So thank you. And for the record I have owned a Freud biscuit jointer for about 15 year , yes I bought because norm always seemed to use it . I doesn't come out often but when I reach for it shines. Besides the obvious strengthening mitered corners on trim work or attaching face frames , I actually use it on glued up table tops in conjunction with pocket screws I find it help keep the shifting out of plane when you drive the screw home. Not lending or selling it it will be right there on the shelf till I need it
Steve was being honest about his experience. He genuinely wanted to save his audience from wasting money on a tool he considered useless. While I disagree with his initial assessment of the tool, I respect his motives :)
@@StumpyNubs I think a lot of what drove Steve Ramsey's first video might have having a second rate biscuit joiner. I don't know what brand it was, but it didn't work as well as my old timey Craftsman...
Kudos for acknowledging Steve’s follow up post. I enjoy watching the content you both produce and I respect you all the more for taking the time to point out that Steve beat you to it in updating his opinion.
Several comments on this video from people who didn't even watch to the end before posting. 🙄 I appreciate having access to the guidance of both Steve's and James' channels, along with many others. It's especially nice that they listen to each other, discuss and respond in a friendly and respectful way, and provide us with the benefit of their various perspectives. As a novice to woodworking I find both Stumpy Nubs and WWMM invaluable. Thank you James and Steve. Think it's about time I bought some merch!
One of my most valuable tools in the shop. I always use it on laminating panels or stair treads but especially like it on mitered joints and boxes. Bisquites and a machine are really inexpensive. In Canada a domino with a couple accessories is over $2000. I’m retired and not going to make that investment. Steve bought a cheap machine that didn’t work properly. Wouldn’t work without one. Also available is plastic,aluminum and click together biscuits. A tool that changed the cabinet industry. Cheers
I’m in the middle of a kitchen cabinet build and about to start the walnut doors / drawers. I’ve been racking my brain for weeks going back and forth about spending so much $ on a domino but I’ve decided to just use my biscuit joiner that I already own . I’ve used dominoes before and they are great but can’t justify the price.
I made my kitchen cabinet doors over 20 years ago. I made the cabinet door frames out of oak and joined them with biscuits, Instead of the joints being at 45 degree angles, I glued end grain of the vertical components to the long grain of the horizontal components. The door frames were machined to their final shape after the glue cured. In over twenty years the joints have never shown any signs of coming loose. They are just as tight as they were when I first made them. SEAN
Seems biscuits are best used to adhere non-structural elements to one another. Cabinetry and tabletops are perfect examples where the biscuits lack of structural integrity is likely to cause issue.
@@Rexmorgan687 In my case I have had no issues with bisketted glue joints. There have been no issues of joint failure in over 20 years. I have seen numerous negative reviews about them but in real world applications have not witnessed any glue joint failure with my joints. Have you had any negative experiences with bisketted joints?
@@postholedigger8726 I'm a novice and haven't used them too often nor have I seen any failures. Just a civil engineer eager to get into the hobby! That said, in use, I haven't seen biscuits used in any major structural capacity.
Great tutorial. I would never be without a biscuit joiner in my shop.. equally, I never expect the biscuits to perform beyond their design limits. Use the tool correctly, and it becomes a great aid.
I LOVE my biscuit jointer. Have used it on everything from door making, to window framing, and many of the other "usual suspects". I think they are brilliant. They also offer an alternative way to make spline if you don't have a table saw or router, and particularly on very large pieces where it's unruly, unrealistic to cut with either. Scott from Japan
Great video, James. I love my biscuit joiner. It really helps with alignment, especially on longer pieces. I like putting my biscuits visually off center. This helps me make sure I've got the right sides up. Thank you.
I agree totally, l use a biscuit joiner and find it very useful but not in all applications. You presented a fair assessment and honest opinion in a respectful and polite manner.
I bought a biscuit joiner for one project 3 years ago and haven't used it since. But I have to say it more than paid for itself on that one job, which involved edge joining 11 foot long boards. I make my living in home repair and don't have a wood shop to speak of, so not much call for a biscuit joiner, but I'm glad I have one if I ever need it again.
I watched Steve Ramsey's video and thought that was a pretty cavalier reaction. Just to let you know I am not a Norm fan boy but I had just come off a 200 bf glue up of 10' material and I didn't want to waste the time of using biscuits but after fighting the first two glue ups I decided to bring out the biscuit joiner. You still need to use cauls but what a difference it made to start the pieces together and when you push them together they almost align correctly. I do give Steve credit for watching his reviews and making another evaluation. If I had not of been working with $725 of wood I may have said that is good enough but when you have a tool that will possibly ease some of the pressure use it. Thanks for the follow up and please don't unsubscribe to woodworking for mere mortals because of this issue. Thanks for watching what is going on other channels and presenting a different angle. Much appreciated.
I had a Ryobi biscuit jointer for a while since it was a recommended best buy in a woodworking magazine. The slots it cut were loose every time. I sold it and bought a DeWalt. Since then, all my slots have been good. I don't use it every day, but it's very useful when I need it.
I use biscuits in the miters of my window and door casings. It keeps the moldings aligned even when the wall is uneven and keeps the miters from opening up over time.
And there are other ways to do things without those expensive tools. Dad was a wood shop teacher and built things with tools around the shop. However, he did have a biscuit joiner. That thing is so valuable to a woodworker.
An old cabinetmaker told me he uses biscuits frequently but _never glues them in._ He said that as the biscuit swells, the surrounding wood does as well. The panel is then sanded smooth. A week or so later, when the glue is fully cured internally, there's a slight divot at the location of the biscuit because the wood has shrunk back.
Purchased a Lamello 25-30 years ago and it's one of those tools that I use only occasionally, as in rarely, but when needed it becomes the perfect precision tool for the task. Like the oscillating multi-tool and some others ... lots of extended shelf time but glad to have them. Very good video!
Great video James, thanks. I've been using biscuits for years with good results. I don't use them for adding strength, just for alignment. Works well for me...
Yet another clear and concise video, very informative and unbiased. I have a cheap (£50) Clarke biscuit jointer brought from Machine Mart. Good for the price and will produce good results if time is taken to set up the cuts. I don't use biscuits that often so could not justify the expense of a better quality machine.
Thank for your opinion. It is very solid. I have had a biscuit joiner for years. Once I learned the correct way to use it has has become a tool I use often. Thanks for sharing.
I have been watching your channel for a couple of years now. I must say that you presented your views in a professional and respectful manner. I like the fact that you mentioned the owner of the video allowing people to check out Steve's video and presentation. I have the upmost respect for both you and Steve. Nice job both of you.
Happy New Year, James and thanks for weighing in. Obviously, I waited until 4:34 before commenting! I have been successfully using biscuit joinery since the 80's and also shook my head at Steve's first video. I laughed when he held-up his Craftsman (Ryobi) biscuit joiner and knew exactly why he had come to those conclusions. Scott
I think a biscuit jointer is like the pocket screw tool. Once you have both you will come up with ways to use them that you might not have thought of before. I make a lot of 8 sided pedestals for a local taxidermist and coming up with a way to glue the boards together and keep them from slipping around when band clamping is almost impossible. Depending on how tall the pedestal is I'll put 2 or 3 biscuits along each of the 8 joints. Now when I band clamp them, they stay put. This method can be used for any multi sided project.
I’ve watched both and a longtime fan of Norm - a tool’s value or use is highly dependent on the user’s understanding the purpose and it’s limitations. Thanks for this video.
I made a very unusual use of biscuits when I needed to have sliding Shaker doors in a very high cabinet in my workshop. I needed the doors to slide sideways on a two grooved “tracks” but I didn’t want tenons to run the entire length of the door edge. So I used my biscuit joiner to place about four biscuits on the top and bottom edges of each door. Once the glue had dried, I applied paste wax for lubrication. The tracks allow one door to slide behind the other door, just like closet doors. The experiment was a complete success.
Another great video as always! What I like best is you give information and let the individual find what’s best for them. I use biscuits from time to time and as you say it all depends on the task at hand. When it is used it is an amazing benefit. Keep up the great work and I love the new shop!
Good video Content... I watched Steve Ramsy's video and had to comment on how His old bouquet joiner had way to muck slop/play in his cut slot/groves...... I use my biscuit joiners mostly for face frames, gluing up panels for making them level/flush and other odd cabinet carcass uses... Greg
I never used one till my Wife's Grandfather moved and decided he was too old to be doing his wood work. Lucky for me I got a lot of cool old timer tools, and a biscuit jointer to boot! I don't use it all the time but it sure comes in handy when I do! Thanks for the informative videos!
I just finished up a decorative sliding barn door for my sons home. I used biscuits to do just as you explained. To aid in joining a large panel to help keep the surface flush. Worked great & only had to do minimal sanding. This door was 54” wide.
I found a biscuit joiner useful for cutting the recess for Z clips on a pair of solid wood top, sitting-type benches I made. (I had forgot to cut the needed groove prior to assembly!) Just something to throw out there!!
I’m also on my second one. I paid five times the price of my first one for my new one and the results are better. There are some great videos on here with tips, probably the best tip is to register off the base, not the fence.
My son and I thought our biscut joiner was incorrectly marked for biscut size. He told me the ff size plunged to deep for such a tiny biscut. Then I watched a video and found that you nee a 2" blade for the small sizes therefore the plunge is deeper. I am making a new garden nursery door with hand made glass panels so I am sure this tool will be useful! Love your videos.
Love using them on glue up, reinforceing miters on trim an such..Forsure love that machine, just got the DeWalt 20v max and super glad to get rid of that cord...
Thank you for this. I had just watched Steve's video and follow up and was a little skeptical of his initial opinion. I grew up watching Norm and still love watching NYWS online. I always remembered seeing him use biscuits for what you described: gluing boards together for large panels. I really enjoy your videos. Keep up the great work!
Hi Stumpy, I watched the video in which you injured your hand. I had my grandsons watch the video, they were amazed at how fast that happened to you. I know it was a bad day for you however it really showed how an experienced woodworker can be injured. I also told them to remember Stumpy said he didn't listen to his own intuition !!! Thanks for being honest, I really enjoy your channel, keep on woodworking. Tim
Hi James, I agree with you, in fact, I bought a biscuit jointed over 40 years ago (I may have the first one ever made) and I use it quite often. I use a lot of pallet wood in my joinery and a biscuit joiner is excellent in keeping those joints aligned.
I finally bought my first biscuit jointer a few years ago while working and saving to get my shop going again. Just used it for the first time this past summer and I totally love it! I do use it quite a bit now, but definitely not for everything.
I've used a biscuit joiner a few times over the years for a few table tops I made. It's not used much but nice to know where it is when I need it. Right in my dad's garage. 😁
Some time ago I watched a John Heisz video where he decided to evaluate the suitability of biscuits as shelf supports... 4 biscuits (maybe 5 , can't remember ), no glue , a plywood shelf with John sitting and bouncing on it. No failures as I recall. It was amusing to watch of course but illustrated the strength of a good biscuit, made with the grain at 45 deg. to the long axis. I've used them on garden planters several years ago without failures. Loads are high but static. As you say, they have a role to fill, just know the limitations.
I, too, saw both Steve Ramsey's videos and found amusement at his retreat from the first video's conclusions. To me, you and he have arrived in roughly the same camp. Liked your extra insight on safety and possible long term quality issues! Good work!
I use a biscuit joiner for installing Z-clips to attach table tops to the base. I also use it to create grooves by holding down the trigger and moving the joiner down the workpiece. Works like a charm! There are all kinds of uses for this handy slot cutter.
I have had one for years! Your right, depending on your workflow determines use. I have used mine only a few times. But when I did I was glad I had it in my tool belt!
When I was building a new butcher block style countertop for my wife, I used my biscuit jointer to join the sections together. Even though it was a "cheap" one from Harbor Freight, it worked really well.
I agree with you COVISHEN really Harbor Freight has improved quality on tools. I meet a mechanical professional and I asked his feedback about Harbor Freight and his thoughts surprise me: Mechanical said: I used to be a person that I have purchased my tools at SEARS (craftsman) and Home Depot tools and usually I got broken tools and I was tired about back and forth to the store with the same story. Now I have 10 years purchasing everything here at Harbor Freight and never ever I have broken any tool. It was more like interview because I am new on woodworking and I am learning first watching videos, reading and asking.
As professional carpenter /cabinet maker, I simply would not be without a BJ, I mean biscuit joiner. I've had the same DeWalt as you for about 10 years and it's still going strong.
At the shop I work at (we mainly do cabinetry), we mainly use biscuits when we have a side pannel that cannot be nailed and screwed in place. A bit like that side at the end of a kitchen counter. We like to use biscuit along with pocket screws to avoid putting clamps all around the cabinet, something that could potentially damage the finish on the visible side. We've also used it quite a lot to straighten out solid wood joints to reduce sanding. So far we haven't gotten any complaints about our cabinets and some of them have been installed for over 5 years and still look like new. no seams or whatever. As a side note, the fence is okay but using the base pannel is where precision is at. The fence tends to loosen up on cheaper biscuit joiners and although we have replaced them with more quality biscuit joiners, we mainly use the flat base surface to get flush with a pannel or a line. If you really want to do it properly, put both your jointer and your piece on a flat surface. You'll get perfectly accurate biscuits everytime. for biscuit in the middle of a pannel, i like to use a guide, I personally use a 4 foot level clamped to my surfaces. Referencing off that, i know my biscuit will be square and exactly where i want it.
You did contribute to the discussion of efficacy of a bisquet joiner. Steve Ramsey presentations are geared for novce & journeyman wood workers and effective tools.
Great video. My opinion is that biscuits are useful for things like building shaker cabinet door frames where the glue surface is substantially smaller than the height of the door. I see it helping to ensure alignment and adding just a little bit more strength. Also, as you say, building wide peices from several planks, helping with alignment. I think they are perhaps quite over used, but they definitely have their usefulness.
I always appreciate your videos... always perfect for me as a beginner, and express your thorough knowledge (especially safety tips) and understanding based on experience....
Used my HF Biscuit Joiner recently to make some panels out of 2 x 6's for a project that my wife needed done. Since I did not know how thick she wanted the blocks to start with, pocket holes were out. Loved it, perfect fit and alignment, and great for planing or cutting to exact size. Faster then any thing else in the shop at the time. Never underestimate the power of a through dowel to strengthen a butt joint. Just drill, glue, hammer in the dowel, cut off at the surfaceand instant strength that is a decorative feature as well. We did that on a scout eagle project as well.
Love the video, but the title brought me in :-) Norm introduced me to woodworking on PBS, long before on-demand and youtube, and became the role model for myself and many others. I still use the Dewalt Biscuit Joiner I bought to help with alignment since I didn't have a jointer or planer. I really enjoy watching the craftsmen video these days, but find myself always falling back to the Keep it Simple methods that Norm shared as he taught us about the Shakers in that village he visited almost every week.
I am a fan of yours and of Steve's. Your different views on similar subjects is a testament of the UA-cam environment on the subject of woodworking. It is great to get different perspectives. This allows me to build up my workshop based on the opinions expressed and my personal goals. Keep the videos coming. I appreciate every video.
I just got into woodworking a couple of years ago, and I bought a biscuit joiner because I had no doubt I was going to need one. Two years later, and I've never used it once.
I personally started to use biscuits recently for panels. It helps to quickly align boards and I don't have to cut boards to same length. I just mark a line, join and press. Pretty handy tool for me.
I have a biscuit joiner that I got from my late father. I probably wouldn't have bought it on my own at this point in my evolution as a woodworker, but it has come in handy in a couple of projects.
I use my B.J. mostly for lining up glue ups. But not all glue ups. It's just another tool. I got a belt sander too and it doesn't get used that often. But when you need it.. Nice video Stumpy. Thanks.
I use a biscuit joiner to build custom kitchen and bathroom cabinets. I have had to learn from my mistakes, but have improved the entire process thru trial and error. But one thing is absolutely true and just being honest. This tool has made the process of assembling cabinet grade lumber plywood into cabinets an easy and straight forward process. It is a very safe tool to use. The biscuits used when glued properly will clamps or just screws, will easily complete the assembly process with accurcacy, with little to no sanding involved. I have made cabinets, drawer boxes, face frames, drawer fronts using a biscuit joiner with no problems what so ever. The key is to perform a good layout, label all pieces to assembly together. Use the largest size biscuit where ever posible, do not be sparingly with the glue. I have to wipe away excess glue during clamping or screwing together. I could teach anybody how to use this tool, to assemble plywood to make custom cabinets!
The biscuit joiner is also good for mitered corners and crown molding on furniture. I specified furniture because the crown molding you buy for trimming out between your ceiling and wall is to thin, at least the stuff I have used.
came to this chanel for a year ago... love the videos and the information that is shared... there is just one thing that really annoys me, its those red wings ;-) Thanks for all the time you put in this chanel, it helps me alot! Greetings from Hamburg, Germany!
A little creative tip, I used my biscuit jointer to carve that grove all the way around a table, so I could insert a strip of polished aluminum. (It was an after thought additional detail. Had I known I was going to do that in the beginning, I might have tried to find the proper bit on a router table or even the table saw)
I bought a cheapo biscuit jointer about 25 years ago and it's been pretty good to be fair. I don't use it often, it comes out as a problem solver mostly. Though I do long for a Lamello or Festool alternative.
Nice job Mr. Nubs, your correct in saying when used as intended. And the other thing I have watched Mr. Norm Abram since the beginning and would never second guess him, I have used one like forever and bought a very good brand back then, keep the blade sharp, use good biscuits, and haven't had a problem. How is the paw doing after that close call? Thanks for posting 👍👍
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Please consider starting with the note about seeing the second video. I was most of the way through writing a nasty comment about rage bating before I heard that part.
Please consider watching the video before commenting about it's content :)
And don't even get me started on dovetail jigs! 😄 Good points, James. Thanks for watching my videos! 👍
Steeeeeeeve!
This is a great to see. 2 great providers getting along.
It is so cool that two of my absolute favorites on this subject comment on each other and watch each others' videos. The two of you are huge influences on my fledgling hobby
What's wrong with dovetail jigs, I love and use my Porter-Cable jig all the time.
I use my biscuit jointer so we share a slightly different opinion on those but that dovetail jig, OH MAN.
I have been joining every leg to aprons with biscuits for over 20 years and never has one failed. Dozens of desks, tv stands, end tables, dressers, and book cases and never a failure; even with kids using them.
even though i have a decent biscuit joiner, i use a biscuit sized router bit on my palm router most of the time. more dust, but it goes very quick and reliably.
One caution about biscuit joining. As with all woodworking power tools, never start the tool while touching the object piece. Instead, let the power tool reach high rpm before touching the object piece. Though I know this, sometimes, I've had biscuit joiner already slightly pushed forward when starting it and it jerks the object piece and can be dangerous. No bad accident yet for me, but it's something to be extra vigilant about.
I love how you are always able respectfully present an opposing opinion , you share your viewpoint in a not confrontational constructive manner. That in and of it self is a valuable skill set. That said I saw both of Steve Ramsey videos on this subject I also was impressed with how willing he was to give the tool a second try and re evaluate his position. You both bring something a little different to the community but both bring value ! I enjoy and learn from both channels. So thank you. And for the record I have owned a Freud biscuit jointer for about 15 year , yes I bought because norm always seemed to use it . I doesn't come out often but when I reach for it shines. Besides the obvious strengthening mitered corners on trim work or attaching face frames , I actually use it on glued up table tops in conjunction with pocket screws I find it help keep the shifting out of plane when you drive the screw home. Not lending or selling it it will be right there on the shelf till I need it
Steve was being honest about his experience. He genuinely wanted to save his audience from wasting money on a tool he considered useless. While I disagree with his initial assessment of the tool, I respect his motives :)
@@StumpyNubs I think a lot of what drove Steve Ramsey's first video might have having a second rate biscuit joiner. I don't know what brand it was, but it didn't work as well as my old timey Craftsman...
Stumpy Nubs this comment is another testament to what a class act you are sir ,
@@watermain48 And that's in fact what Steve ended up discovering in his second video. He recanted most of what he complained about in the first video.
Well said and all that's needed to be said.
Kudos for acknowledging Steve’s follow up post. I enjoy watching the content you both produce and I respect you all the more for taking the time to point out that Steve beat you to it in updating his opinion.
Thanks again....love my biscuit joiners!
Several comments on this video from people who didn't even watch to the end before posting. 🙄 I appreciate having access to the guidance of both Steve's and James' channels, along with many others. It's especially nice that they listen to each other, discuss and respond in a friendly and respectful way, and provide us with the benefit of their various perspectives. As a novice to woodworking I find both Stumpy Nubs and WWMM invaluable. Thank you James and Steve. Think it's about time I bought some merch!
One of my most valuable tools in the shop. I always use it on laminating panels or stair treads but especially like it on mitered joints and boxes. Bisquites and a machine are really inexpensive. In Canada a domino with a couple accessories is over $2000. I’m retired and not going to make that investment. Steve bought a cheap machine that didn’t work properly. Wouldn’t work without one. Also available is plastic,aluminum and click together biscuits. A tool that changed the cabinet industry. Cheers
I’m in the middle of a kitchen cabinet build and about to start the walnut doors / drawers. I’ve been racking my brain for weeks going back and forth about spending so much $ on a domino but I’ve decided to just use my biscuit joiner that I already own . I’ve used dominoes before and they are great but can’t justify the price.
I made my kitchen cabinet doors over 20 years ago. I made the cabinet door frames out of oak and joined them with biscuits, Instead of the joints being at 45 degree angles, I glued end grain of the vertical components to the long grain of the horizontal components. The door frames were machined to their final shape after the glue cured. In over twenty years the joints have never shown any signs of coming loose. They are just as tight as they were when I first made them.
SEAN
yes they work great for that sean I also built a table top years ago like 15 years and still looks new
You did the job right. So, you don't have issues. Simple actually
Seems biscuits are best used to adhere non-structural elements to one another.
Cabinetry and tabletops are perfect examples where the biscuits lack of structural integrity is likely to cause issue.
@@Rexmorgan687 In my case I have had no issues with bisketted glue joints. There have been no issues of joint failure in over 20 years. I have seen numerous negative reviews about them but in real world applications have not witnessed any glue joint failure with my joints. Have you had any negative experiences with bisketted joints?
@@postholedigger8726 I'm a novice and haven't used them too often nor have I seen any failures. Just a civil engineer eager to get into the hobby! That said, in use, I haven't seen biscuits used in any major structural capacity.
Great tutorial. I would never be without a biscuit joiner in my shop.. equally, I never expect the biscuits to perform beyond their design limits. Use the tool correctly, and it becomes a great aid.
You’re the Norm Abram of explaining woodworking my friend!!!! Your videos are always so helpful and informative.
I LOVE my biscuit jointer. Have used it on everything from door making, to window framing, and many of the other "usual suspects". I think they are brilliant. They also offer an alternative way to make spline if you don't have a table saw or router, and particularly on very large pieces where it's unruly, unrealistic to cut with either. Scott from Japan
I have one and use it a lot making furniture, great for alignment and it does add some strength to the glue up.
All I use mine for is joining boards to keep them aligned, but it's extremely handy for that.
Great video, James. I love my biscuit joiner. It really helps with alignment, especially on longer pieces. I like putting my biscuits visually off center. This helps me make sure I've got the right sides up. Thank you.
I agree totally, l use a biscuit joiner and find it very useful but not in all applications. You presented a fair assessment and honest opinion in a respectful and polite manner.
I bought a biscuit joiner for one project 3 years ago and haven't used it since. But I have to say it more than paid for itself on that one job, which involved edge joining 11 foot long boards. I make my living in home repair and don't have a wood shop to speak of, so not much call for a biscuit joiner, but I'm glad I have one if I ever need it again.
I watched Steve Ramsey's video and thought that was a pretty cavalier reaction. Just to let you know I am not a Norm fan boy but I had just come off a 200 bf glue up of 10' material and I didn't want to waste the time of using biscuits but after fighting the first two glue ups I decided to bring out the biscuit joiner. You still need to use cauls but what a difference it made to start the pieces together and when you push them together they almost align correctly. I do give Steve credit for watching his reviews and making another evaluation. If I had not of been working with $725 of wood I may have said that is good enough but when you have a tool that will possibly ease some of the pressure use it. Thanks for the follow up and please don't unsubscribe to woodworking for mere mortals because of this issue. Thanks for watching what is going on other channels and presenting a different angle. Much appreciated.
I had a Ryobi biscuit jointer for a while since it was a recommended best buy in a woodworking magazine. The slots it cut were loose every time. I sold it and bought a DeWalt. Since then, all my slots have been good. I don't use it every day, but it's very useful when I need it.
I’m glad you made this follow up video to Steve Ramsey’s. I admire both of you and I respect Steve for making that follow up video.
All those years ago I did buy a Porter Cable biscuit joiner and it has served me well when needed.
I use biscuits in the miters of my window and door casings. It keeps the moldings aligned even when the wall is uneven and keeps the miters from opening up over time.
I use my biscuit jointer every now and then, it's come in really useful, they do have their limitations but the same can be said for all tools
I used to watch that old Yankee Workshop it was one of my favorite shows but he had a lot of tools that would be out of my budget
And there are other ways to do things without those expensive tools. Dad was a wood shop teacher and built things with tools around the shop. However, he did have a biscuit joiner. That thing is so valuable to a woodworker.
An old cabinetmaker told me he uses biscuits frequently but _never glues them in._ He said that as the biscuit swells, the surrounding wood does as well. The panel is then sanded smooth. A week or so later, when the glue is fully cured internally, there's a slight divot at the location of the biscuit because the wood has shrunk back.
Purchased a Lamello 25-30 years ago and it's one of those tools that I use only occasionally, as in rarely, but when needed it becomes the perfect precision tool for the task. Like the oscillating multi-tool and some others ... lots of extended shelf time but glad to have them. Very good video!
Great video James, thanks. I've been using biscuits for years with good results. I don't use them for adding strength, just for alignment. Works well for me...
Yet another clear and concise video, very informative and unbiased. I have a cheap (£50) Clarke biscuit jointer brought from Machine Mart. Good for the price and will produce good results if time is taken to set up the cuts. I don't use biscuits that often so could not justify the expense of a better quality machine.
Thank for your opinion. It is very solid. I have had a biscuit joiner for years. Once I learned the correct way to use it has has become a tool I use often. Thanks for sharing.
I have been watching your channel for a couple of years now. I must say that you presented your views in a professional and respectful manner. I like the fact that you mentioned the owner of the video allowing people to check out Steve's video and presentation. I have the upmost respect for both you and Steve. Nice job both of you.
Happy New Year, James and thanks for weighing in. Obviously, I waited until 4:34 before commenting! I have been successfully using biscuit joinery since the 80's and also shook my head at Steve's first video. I laughed when he held-up his Craftsman (Ryobi) biscuit joiner and knew exactly why he had come to those conclusions. Scott
I think a biscuit jointer is like the pocket screw tool. Once you have both you will come up with ways to use them that you might not have thought of before. I make a lot of 8 sided pedestals for a local taxidermist and coming up with a way to glue the boards together and keep them from slipping around when band clamping is almost impossible. Depending on how tall the pedestal is I'll put 2 or 3 biscuits along each of the 8 joints. Now when I band clamp them, they stay put. This method can be used for any multi sided project.
I’ve watched both and a longtime fan of Norm - a tool’s value or use is highly dependent on the user’s understanding the purpose and it’s limitations. Thanks for this video.
I made a very unusual use of biscuits when I needed to have sliding Shaker doors in a very high cabinet in my workshop. I needed the doors to slide sideways on a two grooved “tracks” but I didn’t want tenons to run the entire length of the door edge. So I used my biscuit joiner to place about four biscuits on the top and bottom edges of each door. Once the glue had dried, I applied paste wax for lubrication. The tracks allow one door to slide behind the other door, just like closet doors. The experiment was a complete success.
Another great video as always! What I like best is you give information and let the individual find what’s best for them. I use biscuits from time to time and as you say it all depends on the task at hand. When it is used it is an amazing benefit. Keep up the great work and I love the new shop!
Good video Content...
I watched Steve Ramsy's video and had to comment on how His old bouquet joiner had way to muck slop/play in his cut slot/groves......
I use my biscuit joiners mostly for face frames, gluing up panels for making them level/flush and other odd cabinet carcass uses... Greg
Have one. Not used much but when it is it's darn nice to have and it's not eating any straw so I'll keep it.
I never used one till my Wife's Grandfather moved and decided he was too old to be doing his wood work. Lucky for me I got a lot of cool old timer tools, and a biscuit jointer to boot! I don't use it all the time but it sure comes in handy when I do! Thanks for the informative videos!
Well said James well said!
watching maybe a hundred videos of these stumpy nubs videos i gotta say this one is the most fashion forward
Well presented argument for the biscuit joiner, I’m proud to own one and use it regularly.
I have built custom kitchen cabinets using the porter cable joiner. Never had any issues!
I just finished up a decorative sliding barn door for my sons home. I used biscuits to do just as you explained. To aid in joining a large panel to help keep the surface flush. Worked great & only had to do minimal sanding. This door was 54” wide.
I found a biscuit joiner useful for cutting the recess for Z clips on a pair of solid wood top, sitting-type benches I made. (I had forgot to cut the needed groove prior to assembly!) Just something to throw out there!!
I'm on my second biscuit joiner. Don't under estimate the strength that they have. The more you use one the more you'll appreciate it
I agree with you 100% Terry.
30 years of using mine
Love mine.
I’m also on my second one. I paid five times the price of my first one for my new one and the results are better. There are some great videos on here with tips, probably the best tip is to register off the base, not the fence.
I have a Porter Cable , works very well and I enjoy using it on panels.
My son and I thought our biscut joiner was incorrectly marked for biscut size. He told me the ff size plunged to deep for such a tiny biscut. Then I watched a video and found that you nee a 2" blade for the small sizes therefore the plunge is deeper. I am making a new garden nursery door with hand made glass panels so I am sure this tool will be useful! Love your videos.
Love using them on glue up, reinforceing miters on trim an such..Forsure love that machine, just got the DeWalt 20v max and super glad to get rid of that cord...
Thank you for this. I had just watched Steve's video and follow up and was a little skeptical of his initial opinion. I grew up watching Norm and still love watching NYWS online. I always remembered seeing him use biscuits for what you described: gluing boards together for large panels. I really enjoy your videos. Keep up the great work!
Hi Stumpy, I watched the video in which you injured your hand. I had my grandsons watch the video, they were amazed at how fast that happened to you. I know it was a bad day for you however it really showed how an experienced woodworker can be injured. I also told them to remember Stumpy said he didn't listen to his own intuition !!! Thanks for being honest, I really enjoy your channel, keep on woodworking. Tim
Hi James, I agree with you, in fact, I bought a biscuit jointed over 40 years ago (I may have the first one ever made) and I use it quite often. I use a lot of pallet wood in my joinery and a biscuit joiner is excellent in keeping those joints aligned.
Good Job I waited to the end. Was about to say 'Poor Steve" LOL Funny how we all watch the same makers :)
I saw that one as well! Nice to see he was humble enough to revisit the topic. Wouldn’t expect anything less from him.
Hope you are healing well. And hope you have a great new year.
Great video James. One of my first projects was a punched tin tall pie safe for the wife. What an adventure with the first biscuit joiner. I love it.
I finally bought my first biscuit jointer a few years ago while working and saving to get my shop going again. Just used it for the first time this past summer and I totally love it! I do use it quite a bit now, but definitely not for everything.
I've used a biscuit joiner a few times over the years for a few table tops I made. It's not used much but nice to know where it is when I need it. Right in my dad's garage. 😁
Best comment.
Some time ago I watched a John Heisz video where he decided to evaluate the suitability of biscuits as shelf supports... 4 biscuits (maybe 5 , can't remember ), no glue , a plywood shelf with John sitting and bouncing on it. No failures as I recall. It was amusing to watch of course but illustrated the strength of a good biscuit, made with the grain at 45 deg. to the long axis. I've used them on garden planters several years ago without failures. Loads are high but static. As you say, they have a role to fill, just know the limitations.
I, too, saw both Steve Ramsey's videos and found amusement at his retreat from the first video's conclusions. To me, you and he have arrived in roughly the same camp. Liked your extra insight on safety and possible long term quality issues! Good work!
I like Stumpy Nubs. I like WWMM with Steve.
That is all.
I like Taking20. Worlds collide. That is all.
I use a biscuit joiner for installing Z-clips to attach table tops to the base.
I also use it to create grooves by holding down the trigger and moving the joiner down the workpiece.
Works like a charm! There are all kinds of uses for this handy slot cutter.
I used mine yesterday to cut a slot for the cam of a cabinet lock. Worked great!
I use my biscuit cutter anytime I’m edge glueing large panels like table tops. It really does help with alignment and keeping the panel flat.
I have had one for years! Your right, depending on your workflow determines use.
I have used mine only a few times. But when I did I was glad I had it in my tool belt!
I love the biscuit joiner, for alignment purposes.
When I was building a new butcher block style countertop for my wife, I used my biscuit jointer to join the sections together. Even though it was a "cheap" one from Harbor Freight, it worked really well.
you probably were not building a butcher block countertop.
I agree with you COVISHEN really Harbor Freight has improved quality on tools. I meet a mechanical professional and I asked his feedback about Harbor Freight and his thoughts surprise me:
Mechanical said: I used to be a person that I have purchased my tools at SEARS (craftsman) and Home Depot tools and usually I got broken tools and I was tired about back and forth to the store with the same story.
Now I have 10 years purchasing everything here at Harbor Freight and never ever I have broken any tool.
It was more like interview because I am new on woodworking and I am learning first watching videos, reading and asking.
@@davidmorgan8705 It's only butcher block if it comes from the "Butcher" region of France. Otherwise it's just a "sparkling lamination." :P
As professional carpenter /cabinet maker, I simply would not be without a BJ, I mean biscuit joiner. I've had the same DeWalt as you for about 10 years and it's still going strong.
At the shop I work at (we mainly do cabinetry), we mainly use biscuits when we have a side pannel that cannot be nailed and screwed in place. A bit like that side at the end of a kitchen counter. We like to use biscuit along with pocket screws to avoid putting clamps all around the cabinet, something that could potentially damage the finish on the visible side. We've also used it quite a lot to straighten out solid wood joints to reduce sanding. So far we haven't gotten any complaints about our cabinets and some of them have been installed for over 5 years and still look like new. no seams or whatever.
As a side note, the fence is okay but using the base pannel is where precision is at. The fence tends to loosen up on cheaper biscuit joiners and although we have replaced them with more quality biscuit joiners, we mainly use the flat base surface to get flush with a pannel or a line. If you really want to do it properly, put both your jointer and your piece on a flat surface. You'll get perfectly accurate biscuits everytime. for biscuit in the middle of a pannel, i like to use a guide, I personally use a 4 foot level clamped to my surfaces. Referencing off that, i know my biscuit will be square and exactly where i want it.
I’m guessing this might not be a great idea for a DIY homeowner doing some trim around a recessed bookcase or recessed shelving?
It just costs too much for such light work. I think you can get along fine without one for now
I don’t always use my biscuit joiner, but when I do it’s invaluable. I love mine and will replace it if it ever breaks down.
I’m really glad that you added your opinion whether to biscuit or not to biscuit.
You did contribute to the discussion of efficacy of a bisquet joiner. Steve Ramsey presentations are geared for novce & journeyman wood workers and effective tools.
Great video. My opinion is that biscuits are useful for things like building shaker cabinet door frames where the glue surface is substantially smaller than the height of the door. I see it helping to ensure alignment and adding just a little bit more strength. Also, as you say, building wide peices from several planks, helping with alignment. I think they are perhaps quite over used, but they definitely have their usefulness.
I always appreciate your videos... always perfect for me as a beginner, and express your thorough knowledge (especially safety tips) and understanding based on experience....
A positive contribution indeed. Excellent sharing of knowledge and wisdom. Thanks!
Used my HF Biscuit Joiner recently to make some panels out of 2 x 6's for a project that my wife needed done. Since I did not know how thick she wanted the blocks to start with, pocket holes were out. Loved it, perfect fit and alignment, and great for planing or cutting to exact size. Faster then any thing else in the shop at the time.
Never underestimate the power of a through dowel to strengthen a butt joint. Just drill, glue, hammer in the dowel, cut off at the surfaceand instant strength that is a decorative feature as well. We did that on a scout eagle project as well.
I only watched halfway through, some really good tips, the takeaway at the end, use the right tool or joining method for the job.
Love the video, but the title brought me in :-) Norm introduced me to woodworking on PBS, long before on-demand and youtube, and became the role model for myself and many others. I still use the Dewalt Biscuit Joiner I bought to help with alignment since I didn't have a jointer or planer. I really enjoy watching the craftsmen video these days, but find myself always falling back to the Keep it Simple methods that Norm shared as he taught us about the Shakers in that village he visited almost every week.
I am a fan of yours and of Steve's. Your different views on similar subjects is a testament of the UA-cam environment on the subject of woodworking. It is great to get different perspectives. This allows me to build up my workshop based on the opinions expressed and my personal goals. Keep the videos coming. I appreciate every video.
I just got into woodworking a couple of years ago, and I bought a biscuit joiner because I had no doubt I was going to need one. Two years later, and I've never used it once.
I still use the original Lamello biscuit joiner purchased in the 80's. I had a commercial cabinet shop.
Me too. The original tool if I'm not mistaken. If it broke tmw, I'd go straight out and buy another, no hesitation
Good tip on biscuit jointers; I will definitely keep these tips in mind
I personally started to use biscuits recently for panels. It helps to quickly align boards and I don't have to cut boards to same length. I just mark a line, join and press. Pretty handy tool for me.
I have a biscuit joiner that I got from my late father. I probably wouldn't have bought it on my own at this point in my evolution as a woodworker, but it has come in handy in a couple of projects.
I use my B.J. mostly for lining up glue ups. But not all glue ups. It's just another tool. I got a belt sander too and it doesn't get used that often. But when you need it.. Nice video Stumpy. Thanks.
Invaluable when joining kitchen worktops together
I use a biscuit joiner to build custom kitchen and bathroom cabinets. I have had to learn from my mistakes, but have improved the entire process thru trial and error. But one thing is absolutely true and just being honest. This tool has made the process of assembling cabinet grade lumber plywood into cabinets an easy and straight forward process. It is a very safe tool to use. The biscuits used when glued properly will clamps or just screws, will easily complete the assembly process with accurcacy, with little to no sanding involved. I have made cabinets, drawer boxes, face frames, drawer fronts using a biscuit joiner with no problems what so ever. The key is to perform a good layout, label all pieces to assembly together. Use the largest size biscuit where ever posible, do not be sparingly with the glue. I have to wipe away excess glue during clamping or screwing together. I could teach anybody how to use this tool, to assemble plywood to make custom cabinets!
2 of 3 of my favorite woodworkers commenting on each others videos. Awesome.
I have used bicuits to join large pieces together, but also use a kreg jig to help with strength. Seems to work pretty good for me so far
The biscuit joiner is also good for mitered corners and crown molding on furniture. I specified furniture because the crown molding you buy for trimming out between your ceiling and wall is to thin, at least the stuff I have used.
came to this chanel for a year ago...
love the videos and the information that is shared...
there is just one thing that really annoys me, its those red wings ;-)
Thanks for all the time you put in this chanel, it helps me alot!
Greetings from Hamburg, Germany!
I've been considering buying one for splicing long 1x4 runs when I'm doing baseboards
My Delta plate joiner is one of the most useful power tools I own. It is so versatile and makes a truly strong joint.
A little creative tip, I used my biscuit jointer to carve that grove all the way around a table, so I could insert a strip of polished aluminum. (It was an after thought additional detail. Had I known I was going to do that in the beginning, I might have tried to find the proper bit on a router table or even the table saw)
I bought a cheapo biscuit jointer about 25 years ago and it's been pretty good to be fair. I don't use it often, it comes out as a problem solver mostly. Though I do long for a Lamello or Festool alternative.
Nice job Mr. Nubs, your correct in saying when used as intended. And the other thing I have watched Mr. Norm Abram since the beginning and would never second guess him, I have used one like forever and bought a very good brand back then, keep the blade sharp, use good biscuits, and haven't had a problem. How is the paw doing after that close call? Thanks for posting 👍👍
Thank you for adding to the conversation. Its very useful to understand what a tools pros and cons are.
This is a good bit of info, thanks! I also watched wwmm’s videos on the biscuit joiner. I appreciate your opinion as well.