When you need to make an angle cut on a piece of wood, you’ll want to learn how to make a table saw taper cut. There are several ways to do this, from using a degree measurer to using a taper jig. But before you make your cut, you need to know how to use the table saw’s angle cut guide to get a perfect angle.
Taper jigs allow the blade to stay perfectly straight
A taper jig allows you to make precise cuts with your table saw, and it is a must-have tool. These jigs are made to allow for the blade to remain perfectly straight even when cutting angles. They work by using a miter gauge slot and a 5-inch-long strip of wood that is 1/16″ narrower than the rip you wish to make. It is essentially a horizontal push stick and can even be given a handle to improve control.
There are two main types of taper jigs: triangular and sled. While triangular jigs are the most convenient, they do not offer enough control for making complicated angles. Sled-style jigs, on the other hand, have a base and clamps to fit wood. They also do not require you to hold the wood as it approaches the blade.
Using a degree measurer
Using a degree measurer to make angles on a table saw can be a difficult task, but it is not impossible. A degree measurer is basically a digital scale that pushes the blade from 45 degrees to 90 degrees. A protractor can be easily adjusted with a digital angle gauge. These scales are usually magnetic and can be positioned on the table saw table. The protractor should be close to the blade to get the proper angle.
The degree measurer can also be used on a miter saw. The angle scale is usually a ballpark, so it’s important to use a bevel setting tool when cutting bevels. The angle measurer can come in the form of a T-bevel, a protractor, a set-up block, or a drafting triangle.
Using a push stick
If you want to make angles with a table saw, you will need a push stick. You can purchase one at any hardware store or online. There are many different styles and designs of push sticks. Some of the more common styles are shown below. However, if you are looking for a simpler way to make angles with a table saw, a push block is an excellent choice. It provides a smooth back surface to the workpiece, which is very useful when cutting thin material.
A push stick is also known as an angled fence block. There are several designs available in the market, including the one made by Jimmy DiResta. It can be made from scrap wood or a plane handle. Push sticks can be made from any scrap material, but the best choice is cabinet grade plywood or polypropylene. This material has more layers and fewer voids, making it a more solid push stick.
Using a push stick to make narrow rips
Using a push stick to make narrow cuts on a table saw is a proven method to ensure a straight cut. These devices resemble a shoe heel, and are attached to the table saw with a pair of rubber grips. They are designed to apply downward pressure to the board, while the toe extends out onto the board. This technique provides more leverage and keeps the board closer to the blade, thus reducing the possibility of kickback. When using a push stick to make narrow rips on a table saw, make sure to remove the blade guard first, though.
The procedure for a narrow rip on a table saw is similar to other ripping operations. First, you push the lumber forward through the blade while using the other to hold it against the fence. Next, you apply pressure in three directions: the blade, the lumber, and the fence. Using both tools simultaneously helps ensure that the rip is a smooth one, resulting in a clean edge and better-looking finished products.
