How To Use A Thickness Planer As A Jointer
If you’re a woodworking enthusiast, you know how important it is to have a perfectly flat and smooth surface when working with wood. A jointer is a tool that is commonly used to create a flat surface on the face or edge of a board. However, not every woodworker has a jointer in their workshop. But fear not, because you can still achieve a flat surface using a thickness planer. In this article, we will guide you through the process of using a thickness planer as a jointer.
Before we delve into the process, it’s important to understand the difference between a thickness planer and a jointer. A thickness planer is designed to remove a uniform amount of material from the top surface of a board, which allows you to achieve a consistent thickness. On the other hand, a jointer is used to flatten one face of a board and create a straight edge.
Now that you understand the difference, let’s talk about how you can use a thickness planer as a jointer. The first step is to ensure that your planer is properly set up and calibrated. You want to make sure that the blades are sharp and aligned correctly. Once your planer is ready to go, place the board on the planer bed with the face that needs flattening facing down. Make sure to secure the board firmly to prevent any movement during the process.
Start by making a light pass across the board with the planer. This will remove any small inconsistencies and prepare the surface for the final passes. Make sure to keep the pressure even and steady as you move the board through the planer. Once you’re satisfied with the initial pass, increase the depth of cut slightly and make another pass. Repeat this process, gradually increasing the depth of cut, until you achieve a flat and smooth surface.
It’s important to note that using a thickness planer as a jointer is not a perfect substitute for a dedicated jointer. While it can help you achieve a flat surface, it may not produce the same level of precision as a jointer. However, with careful setup and technique, you can still achieve satisfactory results. So the next time you find yourself without a jointer, don’t fret. Grab your thickness planer and follow these steps to create flat and smooth surfaces for your woodworking projects.
Why Use a Thickness Planer as a Jointer
Using a thickness planer as a jointer can save you time, money, and space in your woodworking shop. While a dedicated jointer can provide superior results for certain tasks, there are several advantages to using a thickness planer as a jointer.
1. Cost Savings: Investing in a separate jointer can be expensive, especially if you are just starting out or have a limited budget. A thickness planer can serve dual purposes, allowing you to flatten and straighten boards without the need for an additional tool.
2. Space Efficiency: Woodworking shops are often limited in space. By using a thickness planer as a jointer, you can free up valuable space that would otherwise be occupied by a separate jointer. This is especially beneficial for small workshops or those with limited storage space.
3. Versatility: While a jointer is designed specifically for edge jointing, a thickness planer can handle multiple tasks, including surfacing and dimensioning lumber. This versatility allows you to achieve a variety of woodworking tasks with a single tool.
4. Efficient Workflow: Instead of having to switch between a jointer and thickness planer for different tasks, using a thickness planer as a jointer allows for a more streamlined workflow. This can save you time and improve overall efficiency in your woodworking projects.
5. Enhanced Precision: With careful setup and technique, a thickness planer can produce accurate and precise results for edge jointing. While it may require more attention to detail and proper setup, using a thickness planer as a jointer can yield excellent results if done correctly.
Although using a thickness planer as a jointer has its advantages, it is important to note that there are limitations to this approach. A dedicated jointer may still be necessary for certain tasks that require specialized features and capabilities. However, for many woodworking projects, using a thickness planer as a jointer can be a practical and effective solution.
Benefits of Using a Thickness Planer as a Jointer
A thickness planer is a powerful tool that is typically used for reducing the thickness of a piece of wood, but it can also be used as a jointer. While a jointer is specifically designed to create flat and straight edges on boards, a thickness planer can perform similar tasks with some modifications. Here are some benefits of using a thickness planer as a jointer:
1. Cost Savings
Using a thickness planer as a jointer eliminates the need for buying a separate jointer, which can save you money. Jointers can be quite expensive, and if you only need to perform occasional jointing tasks, investing in a separate machine may not be cost-effective. By utilizing your thickness planer as a jointer, you can save on the cost of purchasing an additional tool.
2. Space Efficiency
Another advantage of using a thickness planer as a jointer is that it saves space in your workshop. Woodworking tools can take up a significant amount of space, and if you have limited workspace, combining two functions into one machine can help optimize your available area.
3. Versatility
Switching between the thickness planer and jointer functions in a single machine offers versatility in your woodworking projects. You can easily transition from one task to another without the need for multiple tools, which saves time and effort. This versatility allows you to work more efficiently and effectively, especially when you have limited time to complete a project.
In conclusion, using a thickness planer as a jointer can provide cost savings, space efficiency, and versatility in your woodworking endeavors. While it may require some modifications to the tool and adjustments to your techniques, it can be a practical solution for those who are not ready to invest in a separate jointer or have limited space in their workshop.
Step-by-Step Guide to Using a Thickness Planer as a Jointer
If you don’t have a jointer but need to square up the edges of your lumber, you can actually use a thickness planer as a makeshift jointer. While not ideal, this method can help you achieve flat and straight edges on your stock. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use a thickness planer as a jointer:
Step 1: Prepare Your Stock
Start by selecting the stock you want to joint. Ensure that it is as flat and straight as possible. Remove any significant bowed or twisted areas if necessary. This will make the jointing process more effective.
Step 2: Install a Straight Board
Place a straight and flat board next to your planer’s infeed table. Make sure it is securely positioned and aligned with the planer’s bed. This straight board will act as a reference surface for jointing your stock.
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Step 3: Adjust the Planer’s Depth
Adjust the thickness planer’s cutting depth to a shallow setting. You want to remove as little material as possible during each pass. This will prevent your stock from becoming too thin and losing structural integrity.
Step 4: Joint the First Edge
Place your stock on the planer’s infeed table, with the edge you want to joint resting against the straight reference board. Keep the stock firmly pressed against the board throughout the jointing process. Slowly feed the stock through the planer, maintaining even pressure against the reference board. Repeat this process until the first edge is flat and straight.
Step 5: Flip and Joint the Second Edge
Once the first edge is jointed, flip your stock and repeat the jointing process on the opposite edge. This will ensure both edges of your stock are parallel and straight.
Step 6: Inspect and Adjust
After jointing both edges, inspect your stock for any remaining imperfections. If needed, adjust the planer’s cutting depth slightly and make additional passes until you achieve the desired outcome.
Step 7: Use a Jointer for Final Touches
While using a thickness planer as a jointer can help you achieve straight edges, it may not provide the same level of accuracy as a dedicated jointer. For final touches and precision jointing, consider using a proper jointer if available.
Using a thickness planer as a jointer is a workaround solution that can be helpful if you don’t have access to a jointer. It may not be as precise, but with careful attention and multiple passes, you can still achieve flat and straight edges on your stock.
Questions and answers
What is a thickness planer?
A thickness planer is a woodworking tool used to smooth and flatten rough lumber to a consistent thickness.
What is a jointer used for?
A jointer is a woodworking tool used to flatten and straighten the face and edge of a board.
Can a thickness planer be used as a jointer?
Yes, a thickness planer can be used as a jointer by using a technique called “clean-up passes”.
How do clean-up passes work when using a thickness planer as a jointer?
Clean-up passes involve taking multiple passes over a board, adjusting the planer’s cut depth after each pass, until the face or edge is flattened and smooth.
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