I'm new to woodworking and I found a project that requires cutting 1/4-inch wide, 12-foot long strips of ash. The problem is, I don't have a table saw, and honestly, they kind of intimidate me. Are there ways to cut these strips without using a table saw? Also, how do I go about purchasing wood like this? Should I look for a local lumber mill?
3 Answers
You might want to consider finding a local woodshop that can handle the cutting for you. They usually have the right tools for the job and can get it done safely.
If you can, try to find someone who owns a bandsaw. Pay them to cut the strips for you, and ideally, ask them to cut them a bit thicker so you can smooth them out with a wide belt sander later on for a better glue-up.
Most lumberyards can help with this kind of cutting. It’s worth giving them a call to ask about their services and pricing. If they have equipment like a drum sander or planer, that’s a bonus because they can prepare the pieces really nicely for you!
Yeah, but if you are looking for precision, a table or track saw really is the way to go. Just be sure to measure carefully and give yourself some extra wood to work with, especially factoring in the saw kerf.