Introduction: Get the Drift: Tuning the Bandsaw for Ripping Wood With a Fence.
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About: I am an artist and designer located in Alameda California.
It is common for woodworkers to think of the table saw as the "heart of the shop". I believe that when when tuned and used properly, the bandsaw is an accurate, efficient and safe machine for freehand cuts as well as ripping with a fence. My machine is a restored 1950's era Yates b30.
Step 1: All Woodworking Operations Create Dust Noise and Debris. Use Proper Respirators, Safety Glasses and Ear Protection.
Step 2: Square the Table to the Blade and Perform Necessary Roller Guide Adjustments.
Step 3: Bandsaw Blades Are Always Different. to Rip Wood Properly the Fence Must Be Parallel With the Natural Feed Angle of the Blade.
Draw a straight line on a straight piece of scrap wood the width of the desired rip. Freehand rip following the line on the board halfway through. Clamp the fence to the piece following exactly to the parallel line. It is helpful to mark the position of the piece with a sharpie directly on the bed of the bandsaw.
Step 4: Continue to Rip the Scrap Piece. If the Wood Tracks Properly Then the Adjustment Is Correct.
Step 5: For This Example of Bandsaw Ripping I Am Cutting Previously CNC'd Vessel Forms From Port Orford Cedar Glued to a Spoil Board.
