Woodwork involves a lot of tools that can be used to achieve different results. On the other hand, it is also known that there are many ways that one can undertake to realize the same goal. Among the tasks that one can do as a woodworker is flattening wood. In this article, you will get a chance to learn how to use a jointer to flatten the wood. 

What is a jointer?

If you are starting out in woodwork, there is a possibility that you are still confusing the tools. Therefore, first things first, let me jog your memory on what a jointer is. Simply put, a jointer is a machine used in the woodwork to help create a flat surface along the length of a board. It is important to note that although a jointer is at times referred to as a planer, the main work of a jointer is to flatten word surface while a planer is used to make wood thinner after it has been flattened by the jointer. Therefore, in other words, a jointer is a machine that is used to

How to Use a Jointer

At this point, you probably remember what a jointer is and you are no longer confusing it with a planer. One problem is that you do not remember how a jointer is used to flatten the wood. Here is a guideline on how to use a jointer.

1. Know your Machine

In order to use the jointer you need to understand it and how it works. There are numerous types of jointers that are available in the market. The four main types of jointers are close-stand jointers, open stand jointers, benchtop jointers, and machines which are a combination of a planer and a jointer. 

Despite the choice of the jointer to use, you choose you will have to be accustomed to the main features that are common to all jointers. The main features that you need to know include setting the depth of the cut, adjusting the fence, and changing blades. It is important to note that you will be able to make the most out of the jointer if you are familiar with its features.

1. Set Up the machine

Once you are familiar with the machine you will have to set it up. In order to set up the machine you will undertake the following steps:

• you will begin by setting the tables perfectly.
• The next thing will be squaring up the fence to ensure it is perpendicular to the table.
• Regulate the stock limitations and upper limits then set the depth of cut

1. Flatten Wood

Once all the set up is done flattening of the wood will be much easier. Below is a list of techniques and tips that you should follow in order to flatten wood using a jointer:

• Begin with the face side of wood first by pushing the wood on the in-feed table through the knives using push blocks to get a jointed edge which is square to the board’s face. 
• After that move on to place the newly jointed face against the fence to get a flat surface. So as to ensure that tear-out is avoided, always joint downhill.
• Always run the wood through, with the face considered good facing against the fence.
• If you have a board with a crook, draw a straight line on the board. Cut the line drawn using a band saw so as to enable running the board through the jointer safely.
• You should feed wood into the jointer by holding the top edge on the front of the board. Apply pressure leading to the fence so as to control the board as it goes through the cutter head.
• Note that the left hand holds the board while the right hand pushes the board while maintaining steady pressure and feed rate.

If you follow the above techniques and guide you will be able to flatten wood using a jointer. While using a jointer ensure that you put on ear protection and safety glasses to avoid injury to ears and eyes respectively.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a jointer is an important tool that can be used to flatten wood boards. In this article, the jointer has been defined and steps on setting it up provided. Furthermore, the technique of flattening wood by using the jointer has been illustrated. If you follow the outlined tips and techniques you will definitely get a perfect edge on your board and flat surface.