Q & A

Best Ripping Blade for a RAS?

I’m planning to use my radial-arm saw for making rip cuts. What hook angle should the blade teeth have for this cutting operation?

by Chris Marshall • Jun 18, 2019 • Q & A
Installing a Drill Press Chuck?

I can’t seem to prevent the tapered arbor shaft of my drill press’s chuck from falling out sometimes. How should I fix the shaft to secure it?

by Chris Marshall • Jun 11, 2019 • Q & A
Working with Composite Lumber?

I’d like to build a glider for my yard out of composite lumber. Is the lumber widely available, and can I use ordinary woodworking tools to machine it?

by Chris Marshall • Jun 4, 2019 • Q & A
Finishing a Quilt Hanger?

I’d like to display my quilt of valor by hanging it on the wall. If I finish the hanging rod with Danish oil, will that potentially damage the quilt?

by Chris Marshall • May 28, 2019 • Q & A
Best Finish for Oak Vanity Top?

Is an oil finish such as Danish oil the best topcoat for a white oak vanity top? Or, is there a better choice for this application?

by Chris Marshall • May 21, 2019 • Q & A
Right Amount of Shop Lighting?

There must be a way to determine the ideal amount and color of lighting required for a woodworking shop. I don’t want it too dim or too bright.

by Chris Marshall • May 14, 2019 • Q & A
Citric Acid for Rust Removal?

Recently I’ve read that soaking a rusty hand plane in citric acid will remove the rust. Have you tried it, and is this a good approach?

by Chris Marshall • May 7, 2019 • Q & A
What is a “Low-angle” Plane?

These days there are “regular” block planes and low-angle versions. What’s the difference? Are there situations where a “regular” block plane is better?

by Chris Marshall • Apr 30, 2019 • Q & A
Will Steam Soften Furniture Glues?

Will steam soften the glue joints on antique furniture so we can disassemble it for easier refinishing or restoration? What glues will be affected by steam?

by Chris Marshall • Apr 23, 2019 • Q & A
How to Dry And Preserve A Petiol?

What’s the best way to dry and preserve a palm tree petiol that I plan to give as a wedding keepsake? It is still very wet.

by Chris Marshall • Apr 16, 2019 • Q & A