I'm looking to resaw a 1-inch thick board down to about 0.75 inches using my table saw. I don't have a bandsaw or a planer, but I do have a hand plane. I have eight boards I want to get uniform in thickness. I've got a standard kerf blade and I'm wondering if I can safely make the cut using a feather board, taking passes on the top and bottom, and finishing off with a handsaw. Is there a risk of leaving too thin a section on one side while doing this?
3 Answers
You can definitely do this! Just keep in mind that the width of your board makes a difference. If it's about 2.5 inches wide, you should be good to go with a feather board for extra stability. I'd recommend taking multiple passes instead of trying to go for the full depth all at once—it’ll help minimize the risk of any kickbacks and give you a more accurate thickness. Just make sure you always keep the thicker side of the board against the fence.
Yeah, you should be fine! I often resaw using a table saw, and it works well if you take it in increments. Just be cautious and don’t attempt to cut all the way through in one go. Make sure you always have the same side against the fence, and keep the thicker section facing it. You'll likely need to do a little finishing work afterward because it won't be perfectly smooth, but that's all part of the process!
Right, I only plan to remove about 1/4 inch, and I can sand or plane it afterward for a finish. Sounds good, thanks!
A true rip blade would give you the best results next time! For now, just keep the cuts controlled and remember to plane the faces afterward to get them smooth. If you're only resawing 2.5-inch wide boards, a table saw should work fine for you!
I see what you mean! Doing it step-by-step sounds safer, even if it feels a bit nerve-wracking seeing all that blade. I'll have my push stick ready to make it safer.