I'm about to start a project building a cedar strip canoe this winter and I need to cut a lot of thin strips, about 1/4 to 3/8 inches thick, from 1x6 boards. I'm looking for the most accurate and efficient way to do this without constantly adjusting the fence. I initially thought about using a table saw, but I'm considering a band saw as well since my previous cuts have tended to wander. Any suggestions or resources you could recommend?
3 Answers
A table saw with a thin rip jig is a solid way to go. Just keep in mind that you’ll have to adjust the fence a bit for each cut, but it's one of the best methods for accuracy. If you're unsure, check out some YouTube guides; there are tons of methods to try!
For cutting a large number of strips, I recommend building a jig that utilizes spacers. Start off with a scrap piece to set your initial strip, then add spacers between cuts to keep everything consistent. This way, you can efficiently cut multiple pieces without constantly adjusting everything. It may take some time, but it's worth it for the accuracy!
Honestly, I’d go for the table saw. Make sure your setup is square and your fence is good quality. It’ll give you the best repeatability, especially if you need to switch between 1/4” and 3/8”. Just set up a good cut list, and you’ll minimize the variations in thickness. You might also want to consider feather boards to help keep your strips steady while cutting!
That’s a good tip with the feather boards! Just remember, whatever method you choose, be prepared for it to take a bit of time.
Yeah, I’ve seen plenty of video tutorials on this. Some techniques are faster than others, so it’s worth experimenting to find what works best for you!