Powered Tools

and Machinery

Workshop Machinery.jpg

In this section are the power tools and machines that I use in my workshop, with the modifications I have made over the years, along with the techniques which I hope others will find helpful in setting up their workshop.

For nearly two decades I have written about handtools and demonstrated their use in building furniture. It may come as a surprise to some that I even own power tools and machines! The fact is that I have used power tools for many years longer, although it has only been the past decade that has seen their gradual increase along with an upgrading to better quality machines. I recognise the value in these tools, and take pride in using them in the same manner as I take pride in my hand skills.

Power tools are the main way I convert rough sawn timber into useable boards. This includes jointing, thicknessing/planing, re-sawing, rough shaping ... all the donkey work that prepares the way for the finessing with hand tools. I've always believed that the dedicated furniture maker needs to develop skills with a wide range of tools. There is a place for both power and hand tools, and tasks which may be done better by one than the other.

Noise levels in my workshop

Sharpening Bandsaw Blades

Hammer N4400 Bandsaw mods

Dust Control (will work for other bandsaws)

A Re-sawing Fence for the Bandsaw

Wixey DRO for the Bandsaw