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Do you mean that once you had been a carpenter for 40 years you knew all those things? or, That you've known all these things for 40 years since you'd been a carpenter?
This reminds me of a story. Back in the 90s I was working for a small Design/Build firm. I was the “detail guy” and spent most of my time in the cabinet shop, but we were short-handed. So, I got pulled from the shop to install beveled cedar siding on an addition. They paired me with a new hire, with little time in the trade. What time he did have had been spent on a Framing Crew for a Tract Home Builder. I was up on Pump Jacks, taking measurements and calling down numbers for him to cut. Literally every piece he handed up to was wrong, either too long or too short. If it was too long, I would mark the cut with my mechanical pencil and hand it back. It would inevitably come back too short. After a while, I climbed down and asked him to show me how he was making his cuts. I gave him a random measurement (with a 1/16” fraction) and asked him to cut it for me. He hooked his tape, pulled the measurement and reached into his pouch for a (I shit you not) chisel-tip marker. The tick-mark he made was literally 1/4” wide, which then got wider as the ink soaked into the cedar. He had no chance of success. I gave him one of my pencils, along with a quick tutorial on what a Kerf is, and suddenly his precision was on-point to within 1/16”, and his confidence grew like 10-fold. Proper instruction/mentorship is KEY to accuracy, safety and the extinction of Wood Butchers (no offense to actual Butchers, you guys are amazing). This video is an excellent example of that.
As a life long hobbyist and new home owner I feel like the best testament to a carpenter's skill assidefrom their work, is their hands (specifically fingers) and face ; no clearly easily observed scars means they take care. Results= safety and less wasted time and materials.
As I have mentioned before, you are providing a remarkably valuable Service in the creation of a curriculum for young Wood shop students. I can't thank you enough. The presentations include history, etymology, philosophy, commonsense, economics, and business acumen. Plus this teacher is Learning oodles from you.
I’ve said this in other similar videos. The best advice I ever got in woodworking came from my father decades ago: “Know where your fingers are at all time.” Almost retired from wood projects now, I still have all my fingers. Safety guys. Follow the rules.
I'm glad that your father took the time to show you things...my father wouldn't teach me anything...on his deathbed dying from multiple myeloma he says to me"I know I wasn't a good parent"..it was too late then.
@@dwightpowell6673 If you have a picture of your father when he was a boy, hold up, look at it, and imagine what he must have gone through with his father, so he turned out the way he did. If what he understood at a very late stage in his life, you understand now, you can; not-only break the cycle but also understand your father. Sometimes each generation gets better to the extent of overcompensating the past generations. Then we raise narcissistic sons. And the cycle begins again.
Woodworking is like flying airplanes - if you are in a rush, dont have the equipment, or the weather is bad, and that voice tells you don't do it, then learn to listen.
Excellent! At 73 I’ve been teaching myself woodworking for the last two years and today I had the “Duh!” moment… :-) because of your wonderful video… Sure I’ve read about kerf and marking line stuff and somehow I just continue to blissfully ignore until your video brought it all home… Excellent job! enjoying your videos excellent job! Les
What an awesome video! You make the basics come alive. Of course the blade has a thickness, and of course it removes wood otherwise why would there be sawdust? And of course, I never put all of these simple things together on my own! I am a beginner teaching myself woodworking DIY and I find your videos very informative. Thank you for sharing your knowledge - much gratitude for being my virtual teacher.
Excellent explanation of one fundamental woodworking problem. I had a friend who wanted me to help him cut a hole for a skylight right next to a obstruction on his roof deck. When the blade bound up the saw kicked back across his thigh. After I took him to the hospital for 7 stitches, he climbs back on the roof, determined to finish the task. Puts the blade back in the same place, pulls the trigger and now he has two parallel scars to remind him not to do that again.
Though not a professional, I have been working with wood for about 50 years. You were spot on and I commend you on how clearly and simply you explained things. Great job!
Not a carpenter but a linguist so I did know "kerf." Also my dad was "Ker" so I tended to notice. Excellent presentation, thank-you. Seems like a kerf is a sort of shadow. In philosophical terms, wood is ontologically "being" and kerf is "non-being." In a sense the kerf is the death of the material. The carpenter walks the line between life and death. The kerf is that line.
What the f... Man that really went into the depths of existentialism real fast, I didn’t expect to end up pondering such depths while I prepare my next work sessions!
@@zianawind2970 yes, to the extent that a woodworker is a sculptor rather than a joiner, she sees what she saw, or rather sees what she saws, which is really a way of seeing what is destined to not be seen, as it is collapsing into sawdust and disappearing in the Wind. In this sense the woodworker is as much destroyer as creator. If memory serves, existentialism is based on the word existence, which means to stand out. To make something outstanding, the woodworker must de-existentialize portions of her stock.
@@davidthomson802 you should have a blog or website for all this wood work poetry and contemplation it’s quite good, I know of many that would enjoy reading it, me for one. Let me know if you have one.
@@zianawind2970 Ziana Wind, I went quiet because you got me thinking. I'm under strict orders here at headquarters to stop writing books till I've spent more time marketing them. The orders mostly from myself directed at myself. The last thing I should be doing is writing about wood. And yet despite these orders, I've written twenty-thousand words on wood in the last two months, sort of pretending I hadn't. They just sort of squeezed themselves in between all these other writing projects. For example my son seems to be taking up carpentry, and I couldn't stop writing to him about that. And then carpenters showed up next door to build stairs, and took a long time doing it, and I got to thinking about how I rebuilt my friend Ian's stairs three times three different ways, just to have a chance to theorize stairs. And I wrote an essay for no earthly reason on the relationship between a 20-inch axe and interstellar space travel, how we would never reach the stars until we understood the meaning and wisdom of a mid-size axe. A blog about wood and contemplation might stop me from writing so much about wood and contemplation. For example, since your kind words, I thought: what if I had a blog that had posted at the top this stern warning to myself: every Tuesday till it's a book. Maybe. Soon.
@@davidthomson802 you know.. do the blog or such and let people read it. The interstellar jig about an axe sounds super cool. And u never know, maybe you suck at romance or x y z u trying to hammer yourself down to, and yet the natural flow of spirit that comes through you about wood etc is already inspiring others you know? Sometimes we are our worst critic and just too stubborn.. for you to know. Anyway you totally have a flow that’s rare and I’m super picky about what I care to read or write about... just saying
That’s so cool dude! Sounds like a great teacher if he’s showing you all these videos. Personally I love the honest carpenter, he’s so straight to the point and awesome. Been watching for a long time and I’m happy to see people putting his teachings to use!!!
Thank you. You took me back to 1990 when I was in Form 1 term 1 wod work lesson. These are the fundamental even though we used handsaws . Our teacher would make us chant thus. Measure twice n cut once So not cut where you cannot see. Keep the saw inside the kerf. Keep the cut on the waste wood side Keep the marking gauge stock on the face side / face edge. With love from South Africa
Yes, not for the 1st time, I have learnt something new and useful from your channnel. Your content is highly valuable for enthusaistic amatuer woodworkers new to the game like myself. The simple and concise presentation is also just perfect. Thanks for helping me appear just a bit less clueless.
“Take the line” or “leave the line” is usually all the instruction you get on the job. Your explanation of taking half the kerf, if you cut down the center of the line really gave me the “mind’s eye” visual of what’s gong on. Going to use this when I’m instructing.
I've taught so many kids(young adults) hardwood installation and this is probably the hardest lesson I have to deal with. I completely agree, this video really will help in future lessons.
Kerf is also known as "No matter how many times I cut this board, it doesn't get longer." or "Measure twice, cut once." Now, I fall under the DYI, but I've done a little finish carpentry, and when I see people doing trim work and expecting to come back with caulk, I start seeing red. And it's almost always down to not understanding kerf. Another excellent video.
I was a remodeled for 40 yrs. and still have all my fingers. I agree with all that you said. You can’t be too safe. Like the kerf when part of your body is gone, in a fraction of a second, it is gone forever. You cannot get it back. So when trying to go fast or cut corners, ask yourself which part of my body would I be happy without? Great job highlighting the value of the kerf and safety.
Never,never,never,ever take for granted the power of a saw blade. Your words about destroying the wood I front of the blade forever and never to be seen again,should send shivers down your spine….RESPECT IT 🖖🏻
Hi Ethan, I'm loving your videos.You explain things clearly in a brilliant, step-by-step manner that leaves me feeling that I've got a good grasp of the basics. I'm a 66-year-old retiree who has taken it into her head to take up some basic carpentry and I knew nothing. The problem with people like me is that we don't know what we don't know - hence my dilemma. I'm trying to work out a starting point but I don't know what that is. I'm prepared to go out an have real world lessons but I'd also love to have some basic knowledge before I get there. I don't want my first lessons to be double-dutch, I want to learn and enjoy. With all those confessions in mind, can you make a playlist of your videos for the novice - a step-by-step guide to getting started. I've watched quite a few of your videos now and I'm starting to work out which videos would have helped me most when I got started. Thank you so much for your wonderful work.
Great video! one thing I see though is you can't always trust the Kerf measurement that comes with the tool. On cheaper tools for example the blade can oscillate slightly creating a wider Kerf. I always do a trail cut with a tool to measure it before measuring out.
I am new to DIY woodworking and I can’t tell you how informative and relatable your videos are. Without this “education” it would be easy to get frustrated and give up. Thank you and keep them coming.
Excellent video! Thank you for this. I'm a newbie considering getting my first circular saw and greedily eating up all of your content about saws and saw safety. This one may be my favourite so far.
the other issue with kerf safety is rotation or misalignment, i would include it with binding in your example. if the fence or work piece is not aligned with the blade, the back of the blade will catch in the kerf and throw the work piece/kickback etc. Causation examples include cutting un-jointed wood, a misaligned fence, free hand feeding, no riving knife, bad technique pushing the wood to cause rotation of the stock, etc. There are also 3 or more causes of binding: wood movement as internal stresses are changed as the blade cuts, trying to rip un-jointed boards and misalignment of the rip fence causing the back of the blade to bind. as a reminder, a table saw should be checked for miterslot, blade and fence parallelism frequently... like weekly in a busy shop or even daily in a production shop.
I’m just so glad I found you. Every time I make a cut my saw binds- I’ve tried tape to keep the back from blowing out too…just by instinct but not with great luck. You’ve provided so many answers to questions I wouldn’t know how to ask I’ve run out of lightbulbs 💡 😉 Thanks for making me better.
I truly think KERF is the most important word in carpentry and woodworking...BUT I WANT TO KNOW WHAT YOU THINK. Do you AGREE or DISAGREE with me? I'm willing to hear any and all opinions. Also, did you learn something you didn't know from this video? Let me know what it was. Your feedback helps me constantly improve the channel. Thanks for watching!!
I have not used a circular saw for many years. I bought a Ryobi. This video helped me so much because I am co.fortable with a table saw but no longer have one. I just need to do some small maintenance projects like replacing outdoor trim work that is rotting on the house before winter. Also build so obstacles for my goats to play on. Maybe a dog house and a small shade structure for the back yard. I have played around with the saw a bit but there are three marks on the metal frame in front of the blade. I am not sure which is for what but now with this video I will be able to cut accurately. Thank you so much. My husband is a disable vet that actually owned a construction company for decades. Now he has Parkinson's too. If I ask him how to do things he gets flustered because he cannot remember. If I ask the neighbors to help he feels worthless and sometimes jealous. I can't afford to pay to have all these repairs done. I am fine with machines as long as I know what not to do. Next I need to learn how to safely use a chain saw. All the classes at Home Depot are suspended due to COVID so your channel is a blessing for me. My grandfather was an excellent carpenter but I was too young and he would not let me touch his tools only watch. I miss him terribly. Thanks for what you do I know there is a lot that goes into making these videos.
38 years of Residential and Commercial building and that is a new one.Not to be funny or rude .You do know what it really means.What it is used as on FB Twitter and all social media.So no kerf stands for Keep it real F.I dont like it and dont use it but have seen it used in that form rather then blade width.Funny story in the early 80s If I cut it short .After the cut I would take my pencil and scribe the edge of board.So they would look at it and think theres his line on the board really i cut it off.accidentally
That is a good ??? What is the most word used in home building.Your wkrds beside Merf is not 1 but I believe you directed it to homeowners.What I think you did is ask the wrong question.No disrespect.38 years Illget back to you.Im leaning on respect all opinions.or be on time dont get drunk tonight.Drain th e tank.Oil th e guns.Who rolled up this cord this way.Those are words you hear in the morning.You mentioned perlin do you know
I was taught "always saw to the waste side of the line and mark each cut out one at a time" so I've always done that. To my mind, the most important word in Carpentry is SAFETY. Take away that one and sooner or later, you'll be forced to give carpentry up assuming you're alive enough to be in the position of deciding in the first place. As for Kerf, I've always understood it as the splaying of saw teeth away from the main blade width thus creating a wider cut than the thickness of the blade hence the saw doesn't jam when you're cutting. In ye olden dayes, we used to use a set to achieve this when we sharpened our saws but nowadays, we accept whatever the manufacturer gives us and even in the case of Spear and Jackson (still the best saws in the UK in my opinion), the disparity is simply not enough and the saw tends to jam. C'est la vie.
I didn't know the word until but I was beginning to learn the concept. I'm working on making chairs as my first project. Learnt the hard way a couple of times that you have to take in to account the width of the blade when you take your measurements. and another tip that I've found out, don't forget to always measure from the same side instead of switching between them as may be convenient at the time.
My middle school wood shop teacher (back in the late 80s) described this very subject but this is the first time I heard of the word. I’ve cut wood using the same principle of riding the outside of my mark, cuz it made sense that the blade blasted some wood away permanently. I remember those in my class who’s projects would be just that tiny bit off from square, or had a weird finish, simply because they didn’t work in the kerf of the cut. Great word and great video explaining it!
Yes I agree with most of your description of "kerf", however I think "Safety" is Most important.. then Kerf. Thanks for your great well planned videos. 👍
When I see woodworking TH-camrs not using proper safety measures (eye/hearing protection, shoes not flip flops, push sticks, etc.) I give them a thumbs down and select "Don't recommend channel". New workers like me, don't need to see "experienced" woodworkers disregarding proper safety procedures.
@@jpjohnbo, SOME very talented wood workers don't know about OSHA safety standards and what ARE "proper" safety standards. Or for that matter ANY safety standards. Watch anything from S.E. Asia. These folks make amazing things; in flip flops, barefoot, etc. They're from a totally different society where it's closer to what WE were in the 1800's. How many Amish barn builders use harnesses? Don't get me wrong. I fully understand your viewpoint. But explain that to the Russian that just posted about welding and NOT using gloves. Be safe!
@@kibbyken5975 I think he means when popular and consistent users that consider themselves "professionals" do this. I agree with both of your points. And I do love watching that brazilian guy dig out underground mansions with swimming pools and gardens 😄
I’m impressed with the kerf and your complete definitions of how many different things cover the defining of this word, Thank you for giving all the visuals on this word. Helps a great deal!
The last time a piece of wood kicked back at me, I had a plywood blade on the table saw cutting some 1/4" luan plywood. I never fully understood why. I wish I had an instant replay camera. But I have learned over the years to stand to the side while cutting thin strips. The thought that my other blades are carbide tip never occurred to me. The wider kerf of the carbide tip blades probably have prevent numerous other kick backs on my table and circular saws then I have realized. Usually, I can feel the binding or smell burning wood and I stop and re-exam my setup and solve the problem before destroying the piece of wood, usually a feather board moved or is improperly set. All thanks to kerfs and carbide tips have been preventing accidents.
Ethan, I started woodworking a few months ago. I found your channel and wanted to thank you. Your videos are SO HELPFUL… and well done. You teach clearly, it’s simple enough for newbys to understand, and your production quality is way better than most. Thanks again!
i want to thank you for sharing your knowledge and experience. I have virtually no experience with carpentry, the lockdowns have forced me to undertake some home repairs that I previously would have contracted out. Yout videos have been invaluable. They're concise, well filmed and have helped me to correct mistakes that I had had been making. Keep 'em coming.
Thanks for the tip on backing blocks for the miter saw. I’ve run into that blow out issue even with a new blade from time to time cutting 2x4s but never knew what was causing it or how to fix it.
Yep. I've been a tradesmen for nearly fifty years. Mostly a mechanic and handyman. My most important word is SAFETY. I thank you for explaining "Kerf", because I am learning as much as I can about wood working, to build book cases, decks, dog houses, etc.
Wow, your delivery on all videos is just outstanding. So easy to listen to. If I would have had access to all of your content back in school, I wouldn’t have had to take four years of wood working class. Awesome.
Informative as always. It's important to know which side of the pencil line to cut to. I work on the basis of a 3mm kerf for my circular / table saws, I'm UK based. My band saws cut at about half that. I'm a big fan of your work. Clear honest explanations of what's what. I also follow another woodworker / educator and I like his description that almost every woodworking tool is a chisel! A chisel is a chisel. A plane is a wide cutting chisel. A saw, circular or straight hand saw is just a series of small chisels in line. I see this idea as "truer" than some tools "smashing" through wood. Router? A really fast chisel. Keep it coming!
I agree with you 100%! As an amateur DIYer, I love fixing and building things on my own and the satisfaction of doing a job RIGHT. I follow this channel to stay safe and do the job correctly. It is incredibly satisfying to see a project through that looks like a master craftsman was standing behind me. Thanks for all the tips!
When I saw the title, I came up with some ideas as I was queueing the video. I settled on square 😊, but kerf is certainly a valid contender. I’m a woodworker by trade, and I’ve done a lot of layout work as a foreman. I always struck two lines on the board to make the cut clear, for the person making the project. Whenever I trained a rookie, I started with “speed and feed”. Those two things are governed by kerf, in wood, and affect everything from safety to quality. Great video!
Yeah my father in law offered me 2 handsaws recently and lets say I learned about Kerf safety just in time. I had some pinching from time to time I was lucky nothing bad happened. I begin searching about saw safety and found this chanel. Its amazing such great knowledge and delivery.
That's a good system, Hugh. I don't get in trouble until I pull a mark, then get distracted and wander off or move the board! Still get myself in trouble after all these years
Consistent marking is key to consistently cutting. There's a billion systems the best ones are ones you do every time and completely understand or the people you are working with completely understand. 28 minus, take the line, etc. What's an x mean? If the person cutting won't know exactly where the cut was supposed to be you're 100 times better off remarking and aligning the cut. The frustration I find is usually when past me was a poor Communicator with now me.
Great video. Great explanation of kerf. I believe the words "kerf" and "safety" go together as one. I always remember Norm Abrams saying " there is no more important rule then to wear safety glasses".
There is great difference between cutting wood correctly and producing sawdust. I have been producing sawdust for many years. Thanks for all your tips. Practical and usefull 👍
Even though I don't do a lot of woodworking (yet), I always knew that I was missing something when it came to cutting wood properly. Problem is that a LOT of people that I see using saws teaching other people don't mention kerf or even know what it is themselves. I'm glad I know it now and yes, knowing this does increase your confidence AT LEAST 10 FOLD! Knowing that you can do things correctly and look masterful compared to others. Thank you for this great representation and kudos to you!
Disagree. Square, plumb, and true are more important words when combining any 2 materials. I think kerf is an easy concept to understand. And you can build a lot with 1/8" deviation when building houses. 1 degree, that's 6" over 30'. Half a degree in a miter, is the difference between open and closed. Also, I worked with some framers that used specific blades where the teeth are not wider than the blade and very stiff. You can't deviate from the line you entered the wood. For them it's great. For me that didn't cut right, it binds so easy.
As a DIY woodworker, this was a very well done and helpful video. When I first began my woodworking projects I would center my saw blade on the cut line, which is obviously wrong. Thanks for this great video!
Thank you for your videos. My father was a carpenter and he died in 2022. I need to build my child a sandbox and fix some baseboards in my house. Thank you for teaching me these skills since my dad isn’t here to help me.
Fourth reason; improperly aligned fence, or improperly aligned table top, (causing the fence to be misaligned.) If you are getting burns on your wood after replacing the blade, then your fence being misaligned is the most likely answer to this. (Assuming the board is true)
A variation on your reason number one, which compounds the problem of measurements. To use your example with a 32" piece, for efficiency's sake if I needed several 32" pieces, I would measure out 32, then 64, then 96, etc. Thanks for teaching me about the kerf - now my pieces are much closer to what I expect them to be!
Great Video. No matter your level of woodworking, listening to this is always a good reinforcement of the principles of safety with saw blades. Thank you !
Thank you Edward! I had been wanting to make this video for a long time. I hope it helps people start off on the right foot, or even just stay on track with their carpentry and woodworking efforts.
I would not normally write a long review but since you asked the question for feedback I will. I did not know the word KERF existed. I did know the width of the blade needed to be taking into consideration when cutting, as you explained. Most importantly to me, I learn a lot from your videos. You are excellent at explaining things, and unlike others, you are very direct, honest and to the point. I’m a lifelong DIY’er. Not great at anything just average, but I think even highly skilled people learn from your videos, as they serve as reminders for the pros and tips for us beginners and average people.
Thank you, Rick! I really appreciate the positive feedback 🙂 I always try to pack a lot of info in with little distraction. I’m glad it’s helping out there!
In carpentry when calling a measurement we would say 48" leave the line or take the line. Knowing that 1/8th inch difference. Easier than trying to say 47 7/8th. In wood working 1/8th inch is huge.
Its more so in furniture making. Where a 64th of an inch is the difference from a seemless dovetail joint. And throwing it away. Also, we cut them by hand.
@@nwcarpenter2878 what's so hard about saying forty seven and seven eights? Or you could say four score and seven inches plus seven parts of eight. If you go in for that ye olde stuff.
As someone who is getting ready to get into woodworking I found this video presentation excellent! I'll be doing a lot of projects with my 14yo daughter and I've been trying to recount all the safety lessons I've learned by watching videos such as this. I think I'll just let you do that from now on and have her watch your videos. Very well done, and thank you!
I'm just a hobbyist woodworker and used to ignore the kerf because I figured it was so small I was going to make much bigger errors. Then I learned that it was a full 1/8" and began to understand why people worried about it - and why my projects were always wonky. Now I always account for it when I measure and line up cuts. I even consider it when planning how many pieces I can get from a sheet of plywood. Kerf width matters and it makes a difference when you work with it.
Well, that blows most of my summer plans for doing maintenance around the house. Before I can even start I need to watch ALL of your videos to learn how to correctly do the things I thought I already knew how to do.
for building fine furniture, i use a marking knife for all cut lines and indicate with a pencil which side of the line to cut. I generally work to 32's if using a ruler, but generally make cut lines against work pieces for exact fit. when using a hand saw, make a knife line then use a chisel to deepen the cut side and cut the fibers - like Paul Sellers does, he calls it a "knife wall". for house carpentry, a pencil is good enough, working to 16ths. A lot of power saw blades have a 3/32 kerf.
You've explained alot I knew about most of this since I was 3. My grandpa thought me how to use every tool he had. I used to play with saws and in sawdust iv always been intrested in woodworking I work with it a lot now
Thank you for the lesson Ethan. You Sir explained that like a Schoolmaster with a yard stick in his hand. I'm always learning from you; including Kerf. I never heard of it, but now I know. Thank you.
Great job. Love your channel. I've been cutting with power tools for 55 years and I liked all you had to say. Power saws cut very fast with lasting results. Always be careful. Practice, practice, practice safely.
I’m a novice woodworker and followed you after stumbling on to one of your videos. I enjoy watching you pass on your knowledge in a way non carpenters can understand. Would love if you can explain thin and full kerf blades. Especially, ones you think are better for newbies and diyers.
I would like to share an incident with you that I had last week with ripping a piece of wood. As I was running it through the table, saw to rip my board. I noticed that the wood stopped. I did not try to force it. I turned it off and I studied what was going on. I noticed the board that was past though the riving knife had pinched back together. So I got a small shim and placed it in the cut to spread it apart. It works! I finally finished my cut with no problem!
Yes - very educational. Getting into novice carpenter work for my home projects, I needed this video. So simple yet I know I have overlooked this skill. Thank you for professional tips!
I have always measured the next cut AFTER cutting the first this way, I am always measuring correct distance from the cut, never marking multiple cuts out before cutting them. Takes only a little more time than doing them all at once, but saves frustration and money to take that little amount of time.
I agree that KERF is a good topic that should be discussed. HOWEVER, "kickback" IMHO is a more important word. While it is related to KERF it can happen for a wide variety of reasons. If your saw blade and fence are not properly aligned kickback can occur. If a push block is not used to remove the cut piece away from the blade/fence area after its cut a loose piece can be launched causing serious injury. Good video overall.
Hi There, I am a beginner woodworker and do little over the weekend or when time allow. Just like to say your videos are great and very informative. Especially for beginners like myself. THANK YOU LOTS !!!
Yes I agree with you. Im just getting into wood working, and I find that you have an excellent method of exposition and youve made an excellent pathway for me to understand things that I have not seen in a slew of other videos Ive seen on TH-cam. Ive never had anyone to show me any of this. Im teaching myself by watching these videos, and yours are by far the most informative ive come across.. Thank you
Great presentation, I have been working with timber for a number of years, but nowadays, I am just so mindful, how easy it is for a saw blade to bind. I have been shoddy on occasions with my use, I have seen others as well, this video is a wake up call. Cheers
You are so awesome. This channel is like a master class for DIY. I don’t do a lot…..yet, but the use sacrificial piece of wood when using the miter saw makes so much sense and I would never have thought to do so!
I've always struggled with understanding kerf. Not anymore. Your teaching skills are exceptional and for someone like me, a few notches above novice, this video will be watched a few more times before I make my next cuts on an outdoor chair I plan on making. I'm pretty sure I won't be making adjustment cuts to make each piece the same length!
You're definitely right. I can't believe how many people screw up cutting boards to the correct size due to the kerf. Luckiky where I work you don't have to be exact, just close.
As a female I haven't been taken seriously when I would ask questions about wood working. You explained a question that I had but was never explained, (which side of the line do I cut). Now I know why I have some pieces a bit longer than the others. And now I know to measure, cut, then measure a piece of wood, instead of measuring the wood in the size(s) I want, then cut. Thank so much for explaining this. I love watching your videos.
You’re welcome, Renee! I really glad the videos are helpful! I don’t yet have a very strong female viewership for this channel, but I’m hoping that changes over time. So, I’m happy to hear from woodworkers like yourself 🙂
A really, simple and clear explanation of kerf; a word I was not familiar with, but I have experienced the downsides of getting it wrong! Thank you, once again, for sharing your experience, skills and philosophy
Good video. I like to use a backer block on the miter saw. It stops tear out. You can cut smaller pieces of wood with a backer block. I will take a stick and hold the small piece of wood against the backer block for safety when I cut.
Brand new to wood working and this was super helpful! It seems so obvious but I’d never really given it much thought until now. Keep up the awesome work!
This is a great subject reinforcing awareness to the concept of kerf. I was lucky to have a dad that was willing to teach and to let me experience hands-on. I actually remember when I first grasped the awareness of the width of the blade and cutting outside or sometimes inside the line. As discussed in the presentation, this is one of the concepts that changed my skill level and took my work to another level. And by including safety in the subject matter, it brings a whole new light. Regardless if we are skilled or rookies, it is good to see the demo and hear the words and refresh the concept. Thanks for a good presentation. It is always good to see a skilled craftsman share knowledge and explain how things work. Thanks! Greg
Im not close to being a professional but i tend to find ways to be more efficient but one thing i found out in my own experience is you can help the cuts with some wax rubbed on the blade on a precise cut and a little bit on the piece you about to cut to give it that lubrication effect just enough to make it easier on the motor and lifespand of the blade
Ugh. I eff this up STILL, but table sleds have really helped me with this, along with footing the bill when "mistakes were made." appreciate every darned video you've shared, I've upped my game considerably in the woodshop because of it. Looking forward to more expertise in the future.
Very informative. Most of your points I was already familiar with but the riving knife was new, I thought it was there only to attached the blade guard, not even thinking it was to maintain the opening of the kerf to prevent binding of the blade. Great job!
Love. This. Video. And 100% agree with you on kerf importance. I’ve been working with wood a long time as a personal interest and have learned a lot over the years from courses, reading, carpenters and others in the trades. But this was all pre-TH-cam era and no one talked about kerf. Thank you for the deep dive. Very well presented!
While I don't do very much woodworking, saw kerf is a subject that I do know, because I run a portable sawmill for a living, I normally figure a 16th for the kerf and an 8th for shrink while drying, so if I an cutting 4/4 boards the bottom board is cut 1 1/8, and for every cut after that I go up 1 3/16, that way every board comes off the mill the same mesurement.
Agreed. Solid advice. And very much appreciated. My old worn out circular saw blade needs to be switched out for one of the new ones that I have on hand. ( Only have about a dozen of the new ones ready to go ) Being "nostalgic" & keeping the original blade is a safety hazard, but it's always "just one more project" then I'll swap it out. That may not be smart, or safe, on my part.
Great video. I'm a commercial constructi carpenter and you did a great job. I can tell you poured a lot into the video. You definitely gained my sub! As for me, I think mine is more of the attitude and mindset than a word: SAFETY A job, especially carpentry (at least for me speaking in my setting of commercial construction carpentry), can be very dangerous in a multitude of ways. You can anyways get another job, but you will never get back your health or your body if you sacrifice your safety for your job. Be safe and live another day!
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I've known all these things since I've been a carpenter for 40 years but I could have never presented them as well as you did good job
Agree, I am diy'er and knew that stuff but it is very well presented and is a good refresher
Yea ik damn youtubers making our life , where is the struggle these days!! 😀😀
Do you mean that once you had been a carpenter for 40 years you knew all those things? or, That you've known all these things for 40 years since you'd been a carpenter?
@@kevinstuart5105 I learned All of this in the 1980s Back then I worked in a cabinet shop
This reminds me of a story. Back in the 90s I was working for a small Design/Build firm. I was the “detail guy” and spent most of my time in the cabinet shop, but we were short-handed. So, I got pulled from the shop to install beveled cedar siding on an addition.
They paired me with a new hire, with little time in the trade. What time he did have had been spent on a Framing Crew for a Tract Home Builder.
I was up on Pump Jacks, taking measurements and calling down numbers for him to cut. Literally every piece he handed up to was wrong, either too long or too short. If it was too long, I would mark the cut with my mechanical pencil and hand it back. It would inevitably come back too short.
After a while, I climbed down and asked him to show me how he was making his cuts. I gave him a random measurement (with a 1/16” fraction) and asked him to cut it for me.
He hooked his tape, pulled the measurement and reached into his pouch for a (I shit you not) chisel-tip marker. The tick-mark he made was literally 1/4” wide, which then got wider as the ink soaked into the cedar. He had no chance of success.
I gave him one of my pencils, along with a quick tutorial on what a Kerf is, and suddenly his precision was on-point to within 1/16”, and his confidence grew like 10-fold.
Proper instruction/mentorship is KEY to accuracy, safety and the extinction of Wood Butchers (no offense to actual Butchers, you guys are amazing). This video is an excellent example of that.
I’m impressed with your presentation and delivery. You’re a skilled tradesperson and great teacher.
Thank you, heidiual!! I put as much as I can into it. I appreciate you watching 🙂
As a life long hobbyist and new home owner I feel like the best testament to a carpenter's skill assidefrom their work, is their hands (specifically fingers) and face ; no clearly easily observed scars means they take care. Results= safety and less wasted time and materials.
As I have mentioned before, you are providing a remarkably valuable Service in the creation of a curriculum for young Wood shop students. I can't thank you enough. The presentations include history, etymology, philosophy, commonsense, economics, and business acumen. Plus this teacher is Learning oodles from you.
I’ve said this in other similar videos. The best advice I ever got in woodworking came from my father decades ago: “Know where your fingers are at all time.” Almost retired from wood projects now, I still have all my fingers. Safety guys. Follow the rules.
I'm glad that your father took the time to show you things...my father wouldn't teach me anything...on his deathbed dying from multiple myeloma he says to me"I know I wasn't a good parent"..it was too late then.
@@dwightpowell6673 society gives an average solution to that by group-parenting.
You've had a village father among the people.
@@dwightpowell6673 If you have a picture of your father when he was a boy, hold up, look at it, and imagine what he must have gone through with his father, so he turned out the way he did.
If what he understood at a very late stage in his life, you understand now, you can; not-only break the cycle but also understand your father.
Sometimes each generation gets better to the extent of overcompensating the past generations. Then we raise narcissistic sons. And the cycle begins again.
Woodworking is like flying airplanes - if you are in a rush, dont have the equipment, or the weather is bad, and that voice tells you don't do it, then learn to listen.
Excellent! At 73 I’ve been teaching myself woodworking for the last two years and today I had the “Duh!” moment… :-) because of your wonderful video… Sure I’ve read about kerf and marking line stuff and somehow I just continue to blissfully ignore until your video brought it all home… Excellent job! enjoying your videos excellent job! Les
What an awesome video! You make the basics come alive. Of course the blade has a thickness, and of course it removes wood otherwise why would there be sawdust? And of course, I never put all of these simple things together on my own! I am a beginner teaching myself woodworking DIY and I find your videos very informative. Thank you for sharing your knowledge - much gratitude for being my virtual teacher.
Ive always thought about this! I didn’t know it was a real thing
Excellent explanation of one fundamental woodworking problem. I had a friend who wanted me to help him cut a hole for a skylight right next to a obstruction on his roof deck. When the blade bound up the saw kicked back across his thigh. After I took him to the hospital for 7 stitches, he climbs back on the roof, determined to finish the task. Puts the blade back in the same place, pulls the trigger and now he has two parallel scars to remind him not to do that again.
some people always trying to ice skate uphill. (i.e. slow learners)
Though not a professional, I have been working with wood for about 50 years. You were spot on and I commend you on how clearly and simply you explained things. Great job!
Not a carpenter but a linguist so I did know "kerf." Also my dad was "Ker" so I tended to notice. Excellent presentation, thank-you. Seems like a kerf is a sort of shadow. In philosophical terms, wood is ontologically "being" and kerf is "non-being." In a sense the kerf is the death of the material. The carpenter walks the line between life and death. The kerf is that line.
What the f... Man that really went into the depths of existentialism real fast, I didn’t expect to end up pondering such depths while I prepare my next work sessions!
@@zianawind2970 yes, to the extent that a woodworker is a sculptor rather than a joiner, she sees what she saw, or rather sees what she saws, which is really a way of seeing what is destined to not be seen, as it is collapsing into sawdust and disappearing in the Wind. In this sense the woodworker is as much destroyer as creator. If memory serves, existentialism is based on the word existence, which means to stand out. To make something outstanding, the woodworker must de-existentialize portions of her stock.
@@davidthomson802 you should have a blog or website for all this wood work poetry and contemplation it’s quite good, I know of many that would enjoy reading it, me for one. Let me know if you have one.
@@zianawind2970 Ziana Wind, I went quiet because you got me thinking. I'm under strict orders here at headquarters to stop writing books till I've spent more time marketing them. The orders mostly from myself directed at myself. The last thing I should be doing is writing about wood. And yet despite these orders, I've written twenty-thousand words on wood in the last two months, sort of pretending I hadn't. They just sort of squeezed themselves in between all these other writing projects. For example my son seems to be taking up carpentry, and I couldn't stop writing to him about that. And then carpenters showed up next door to build stairs, and took a long time doing it, and I got to thinking about how I rebuilt my friend Ian's stairs three times three different ways, just to have a chance to theorize stairs. And I wrote an essay for no earthly reason on the relationship between a 20-inch axe and interstellar space travel, how we would never reach the stars until we understood the meaning and wisdom of a mid-size axe. A blog about wood and contemplation might stop me from writing so much about wood and contemplation. For example, since your kind words, I thought: what if I had a blog that had posted at the top this stern warning to myself: every Tuesday till it's a book.
Maybe. Soon.
@@davidthomson802 you know.. do the blog or such and let people read it.
The interstellar jig about an axe sounds super cool. And u never know, maybe you suck at romance or x y z u trying to hammer yourself down to, and yet the natural flow of spirit that comes through you about wood etc is already inspiring others you know? Sometimes we are our worst critic and just too stubborn.. for you to know. Anyway you totally have a flow that’s rare and I’m super picky about what I care to read or write about... just saying
we watched this in life skills class, very cool!!! Dr. Wesley is our teacher
That’s so cool dude! Sounds like a great teacher if he’s showing you all these videos. Personally I love the honest carpenter, he’s so straight to the point and awesome. Been watching for a long time and I’m happy to see people putting his teachings to use!!!
Thank you. You took me back to 1990 when I was in Form 1 term 1 wod work lesson. These are the fundamental even though we used handsaws . Our teacher would make us chant thus.
Measure twice n cut once
So not cut where you cannot see.
Keep the saw inside the kerf.
Keep the cut on the waste wood side
Keep the marking gauge stock on the face side / face edge.
With love from
South Africa
Amazing, Prosper! Once you really learn kerf, you never forget. Happy to hear from South Africa! 😄
Yes, not for the 1st time, I have learnt something new and useful from your channnel. Your content is highly valuable for enthusaistic amatuer woodworkers new to the game like myself. The simple and concise presentation is also just perfect. Thanks for helping me appear just a bit less clueless.
“Take the line” or “leave the line” is usually all the instruction you get on the job. Your explanation of taking half the kerf, if you cut down the center of the line really gave me the “mind’s eye” visual of what’s gong on. Going to use this when I’m instructing.
I've taught so many kids(young adults) hardwood installation and this is probably the hardest lesson I have to deal with. I completely agree, this video really will help in future lessons.
Kerf is also known as "No matter how many times I cut this board, it doesn't get longer." or "Measure twice, cut once." Now, I fall under the DYI, but I've done a little finish carpentry, and when I see people doing trim work and expecting to come back with caulk, I start seeing red. And it's almost always down to not understanding kerf. Another excellent video.
I was a remodeled for 40 yrs. and still have all my fingers. I agree with all that you said. You can’t be too safe. Like the kerf when part of your body is gone, in a fraction of a second, it is gone forever. You cannot get it back. So when trying to go fast or cut corners, ask yourself which part of my body would I be happy without? Great job highlighting the value of the kerf and safety.
Thank you, Daniel! Well said 👍
Never,never,never,ever take for granted the power of a saw blade. Your words about destroying the wood I front of the blade forever and never to be seen again,should send shivers down your spine….RESPECT IT 🖖🏻
Hi Ethan, I'm loving your videos.You explain things clearly in a brilliant, step-by-step manner that leaves me feeling that I've got a good grasp of the basics. I'm a 66-year-old retiree who has taken it into her head to take up some basic carpentry and I knew nothing. The problem with people like me is that we don't know what we don't know - hence my dilemma. I'm trying to work out a starting point but I don't know what that is. I'm prepared to go out an have real world lessons but I'd also love to have some basic knowledge before I get there. I don't want my first lessons to be double-dutch, I want to learn and enjoy. With all those confessions in mind, can you make a playlist of your videos for the novice - a step-by-step guide to getting started. I've watched quite a few of your videos now and I'm starting to work out which videos would have helped me most when I got started. Thank you so much for your wonderful work.
I am glad you included number3 being possibly the most important, after 35 years of construction still have all my body parts
Great video! one thing I see though is you can't always trust the Kerf measurement that comes with the tool. On cheaper tools for example the blade can oscillate slightly creating a wider Kerf. I always do a trail cut with a tool to measure it before measuring out.
I am new to DIY woodworking and I can’t tell you how informative and relatable your videos are. Without this “education” it would be easy to get frustrated and give up.
Thank you and keep them coming.
That’s great to hear, Bill! Keep it up, and work safe! 🙂
Excellent video! Thank you for this.
I'm a newbie considering getting my first circular saw and greedily eating up all of your content about saws and saw safety. This one may be my favourite so far.
If you haven't pulled the trigger on buying a saw go for a worm drive.
You're absolutely right. Took me a few ruined projects to understand this. Well done.
the other issue with kerf safety is rotation or misalignment, i would include it with binding in your example. if the fence or work piece is not aligned with the blade, the back of the blade will catch in the kerf and throw the work piece/kickback etc. Causation examples include cutting un-jointed wood, a misaligned fence, free hand feeding, no riving knife, bad technique pushing the wood to cause rotation of the stock, etc. There are also 3 or more causes of binding: wood movement as internal stresses are changed as the blade cuts, trying to rip un-jointed boards and misalignment of the rip fence causing the back of the blade to bind. as a reminder, a table saw should be checked for miterslot, blade and fence parallelism frequently... like weekly in a busy shop or even daily in a production shop.
I’m just so glad I found you. Every time I make a cut my saw binds- I’ve tried tape to keep the back from blowing out too…just by instinct but not with great luck. You’ve provided so many answers to questions I wouldn’t know how to ask I’ve run out of lightbulbs 💡 😉 Thanks for making me better.
I truly think KERF is the most important word in carpentry and woodworking...BUT I WANT TO KNOW WHAT YOU THINK. Do you AGREE or DISAGREE with me? I'm willing to hear any and all opinions. Also, did you learn something you didn't know from this video? Let me know what it was. Your feedback helps me constantly improve the channel. Thanks for watching!!
I have not used a circular saw for many years. I bought a Ryobi. This video helped me so much because I am co.fortable with a table saw but no longer have one. I just need to do some small maintenance projects like replacing outdoor trim work that is rotting on the house before winter. Also build so obstacles for my goats to play on. Maybe a dog house and a small shade structure for the back yard. I have played around with the saw a bit but there are three marks on the metal frame in front of the blade. I am not sure which is for what but now with this video I will be able to cut accurately. Thank you so much. My husband is a disable vet that actually owned a construction company for decades. Now he has Parkinson's too. If I ask him how to do things he gets flustered because he cannot remember. If I ask the neighbors to help he feels worthless and sometimes jealous. I can't afford to pay to have all these repairs done. I am fine with machines as long as I know what not to do. Next I need to learn how to safely use a chain saw. All the classes at Home Depot are suspended due to COVID so your channel is a blessing for me. My grandfather was an excellent carpenter but I was too young and he would not let me touch his tools only watch. I miss him terribly. Thanks for what you do I know there is a lot that goes into making these videos.
38 years of Residential and Commercial building and that is a new one.Not to be funny or rude .You do know what it really means.What it is used as on FB Twitter and all social media.So no kerf stands for Keep it real F.I dont like it and dont use it but have seen it used in that form rather then blade width.Funny story in the early 80s If I cut it short .After the cut I would take my pencil and scribe the edge of board.So they would look at it and think theres his line on the board really i cut it off.accidentally
That is a good ??? What is the most word used in home building.Your wkrds beside Merf is not 1 but I believe you directed it to homeowners.What I think you did is ask the wrong question.No disrespect.38 years Illget back to you.Im leaning on respect all opinions.or be on time dont get drunk tonight.Drain th e tank.Oil th e guns.Who rolled up this cord this way.Those are words you hear in the morning.You mentioned perlin do you know
I was taught "always saw to the waste side of the line and mark each cut out one at a time" so I've always done that. To my mind, the most important word in Carpentry is SAFETY. Take away that one and sooner or later, you'll be forced to give carpentry up assuming you're alive enough to be in the position of deciding in the first place. As for Kerf, I've always understood it as the splaying of saw teeth away from the main blade width thus creating a wider cut than the thickness of the blade hence the saw doesn't jam when you're cutting. In ye olden dayes, we used to use a set to achieve this when we sharpened our saws but nowadays, we accept whatever the manufacturer gives us and even in the case of Spear and Jackson (still the best saws in the UK in my opinion), the disparity is simply not enough and the saw tends to jam. C'est la vie.
Love watching your videos. Always feel like I walk away having learned something.
I didn't know the word until but I was beginning to learn the concept. I'm working on making chairs as my first project. Learnt the hard way a couple of times that you have to take in to account the width of the blade when you take your measurements. and another tip that I've found out, don't forget to always measure from the same side instead of switching between them as may be convenient at the time.
My middle school wood shop teacher (back in the late 80s) described this very subject but this is the first time I heard of the word. I’ve cut wood using the same principle of riding the outside of my mark, cuz it made sense that the blade blasted some wood away permanently. I remember those in my class who’s projects would be just that tiny bit off from square, or had a weird finish, simply because they didn’t work in the kerf of the cut. Great word and great video explaining it!
Yes I agree with most of your description of "kerf", however I think "Safety" is Most important.. then Kerf. Thanks for your great well planned videos. 👍
I guess I can't disagree with that one, Frank :) Thanks for watching!
When I see woodworking TH-camrs not using proper safety measures (eye/hearing protection, shoes not flip flops, push sticks, etc.) I give them a thumbs down and select "Don't recommend channel". New workers like me, don't need to see "experienced" woodworkers disregarding proper safety procedures.
Absolutely
@@jpjohnbo, SOME very talented wood workers don't know about OSHA safety standards and what ARE "proper" safety standards. Or for that matter ANY safety standards. Watch anything from S.E. Asia. These folks make amazing things; in flip flops, barefoot, etc.
They're from a totally different society where it's closer to what WE were in the 1800's. How many Amish barn builders use harnesses?
Don't get me wrong. I fully understand your viewpoint. But explain that to the Russian that just posted about welding and NOT using gloves.
Be safe!
@@kibbyken5975 I think he means when popular and consistent users that consider themselves "professionals" do this. I agree with both of your points. And I do love watching that brazilian guy dig out underground mansions with swimming pools and gardens 😄
I’m impressed with the kerf and your complete definitions of how many different things cover the defining of this word, Thank you for giving all the visuals on this word. Helps a great deal!
I’ll say it again. Knowledge is one thing, but knowing how to pass on that knowledge is another entirely. You really have a gift for communication.
The last time a piece of wood kicked back at me, I had a plywood blade on the table saw cutting some 1/4" luan plywood. I never fully understood why. I wish I had an instant replay camera. But I have learned over the years to stand to the side while cutting thin strips. The thought that my other blades are carbide tip never occurred to me.
The wider kerf of the carbide tip blades probably have prevent numerous other kick backs on my table and circular saws then I have realized. Usually, I can feel the binding or smell burning wood and I stop and re-exam my setup and solve the problem before destroying the piece of wood, usually a feather board moved or is improperly set. All thanks to kerfs and carbide tips have been preventing accidents.
Ethan, I started woodworking a few months ago. I found your channel and wanted to thank you. Your videos are SO HELPFUL… and well done. You teach clearly, it’s simple enough for newbys to understand, and your production quality is way better than most. Thanks again!
i want to thank you for sharing your knowledge and experience. I have virtually no experience with carpentry, the lockdowns have forced me to undertake some home repairs that I previously would have contracted out. Yout videos have been invaluable. They're concise, well filmed and have helped me to correct mistakes that I had had been making. Keep 'em coming.
Thanks for the tip on backing blocks for the miter saw. I’ve run into that blow out issue even with a new blade from time to time cutting 2x4s but never knew what was causing it or how to fix it.
Yep. I've been a tradesmen for nearly fifty years. Mostly a mechanic and handyman. My most important word is SAFETY. I thank you for explaining "Kerf", because I am learning as much as I can about wood working, to build book cases, decks, dog houses, etc.
As a multi generational carpenter, I take a lot of this for granted, but absolutely a spot-on topic. Well done!
Wow, your delivery on all videos is just outstanding. So easy to listen to. If I would have had access to all of your content back in school, I wouldn’t have had to take four years of wood working class. Awesome.
Informative as always. It's important to know which side of the pencil line to cut to.
I work on the basis of a 3mm kerf for my circular / table saws, I'm UK based.
My band saws cut at about half that.
I'm a big fan of your work. Clear honest explanations of what's what.
I also follow another woodworker / educator and I like his description that almost every woodworking tool is a chisel!
A chisel is a chisel. A plane is a wide cutting chisel. A saw, circular or straight hand saw is just a series of small chisels in line.
I see this idea as "truer" than some tools "smashing" through wood.
Router? A really fast chisel.
Keep it coming!
I agree with you 100%! As an amateur DIYer, I love fixing and building things on my own and the satisfaction of doing a job RIGHT. I follow this channel to stay safe and do the job correctly. It is incredibly satisfying to see a project through that looks like a master craftsman was standing behind me. Thanks for all the tips!
When I saw the title, I came up with some ideas as I was queueing the video. I settled on square 😊, but kerf is certainly a valid contender. I’m a woodworker by trade, and I’ve done a lot of layout work as a foreman. I always struck two lines on the board to make the cut clear, for the person making the project. Whenever I trained a rookie, I started with “speed and feed”. Those two things are governed by kerf, in wood, and affect everything from safety to quality. Great video!
Yeah my father in law offered me 2 handsaws recently and lets say I learned about Kerf safety just in time. I had some pinching from time to time I was lucky nothing bad happened. I begin searching about saw safety and found this chanel. Its amazing such great knowledge and delivery.
I am right handed and 9 out of 10 times I measure from the lift, so I always know to cut on the right of the line. Thanks for the video.
That's a good system, Hugh. I don't get in trouble until I pull a mark, then get distracted and wander off or move the board! Still get myself in trouble after all these years
left
Consistent marking is key to consistently cutting. There's a billion systems the best ones are ones you do every time and completely understand or the people you are working with completely understand. 28 minus, take the line, etc. What's an x mean? If the person cutting won't know exactly where the cut was supposed to be you're 100 times better off remarking and aligning the cut. The frustration I find is usually when past me was a poor Communicator with now me.
Great video. Great explanation of kerf. I believe the words "kerf" and "safety" go together as one. I always remember Norm Abrams saying " there is no more important rule then to wear safety glasses".
There is great difference between cutting wood correctly and producing sawdust.
I have been producing sawdust for many years.
Thanks for all your tips.
Practical and usefull 👍
Even though I don't do a lot of woodworking (yet), I always knew that I was missing something when it came to cutting wood properly. Problem is that a LOT of people that I see using saws teaching other people don't mention kerf or even know what it is themselves. I'm glad I know it now and yes, knowing this does increase your confidence AT LEAST 10 FOLD! Knowing that you can do things correctly and look masterful compared to others. Thank you for this great representation and kudos to you!
Disagree. Square, plumb, and true are more important words when combining any 2 materials. I think kerf is an easy concept to understand. And you can build a lot with 1/8" deviation when building houses. 1 degree, that's 6" over 30'. Half a degree in a miter, is the difference between open and closed. Also, I worked with some framers that used specific blades where the teeth are not wider than the blade and very stiff. You can't deviate from the line you entered the wood. For them it's great. For me that didn't cut right, it binds so easy.
As a DIY woodworker, this was a very well done and helpful video. When I first began my woodworking projects I would center my saw blade on the cut line, which is obviously wrong. Thanks for this great video!
Thank you for your videos. My father was a carpenter and he died in 2022. I need to build my child a sandbox and fix some baseboards in my house. Thank you for teaching me these skills since my dad isn’t here to help me.
OMG! This is way my stuff is never fitting right. Thank you.
I’ve been working as a carpenter for 45 years Saw blades are deadly. Great videos you have very professional 👍
Fourth reason; improperly aligned fence, or improperly aligned table top, (causing the fence to be misaligned.) If you are getting burns on your wood after replacing the blade, then your fence being misaligned is the most likely answer to this. (Assuming the board is true)
I'm just a DIYer but I have never thought of the kerf as you have explained it here; it's a brilliant explanation. Thanks.
I don’t know if it’s the most important, but understanding it is very important. Love your channel.
A variation on your reason number one, which compounds the problem of measurements. To use your example with a 32" piece, for efficiency's sake if I needed several 32" pieces, I would measure out 32, then 64, then 96, etc. Thanks for teaching me about the kerf - now my pieces are much closer to what I expect them to be!
😊well, as a newbie, this explains why I wasted 6ft of pine boards this weekend to inaccurate cuts! 😡🤷♀️ I found this video to be extremely helpful!
I agree, it doesn't matter if it is a hand or power saw you always need to consider the kerf. Thanks for sharing this.
Great Video. No matter your level of woodworking, listening to this is always a good reinforcement of the principles of safety with saw blades. Thank you !
Thank you Edward! I had been wanting to make this video for a long time. I hope it helps people start off on the right foot, or even just stay on track with their carpentry and woodworking efforts.
I would not normally write a long review but since you asked the question for feedback I will. I did not know the word KERF existed. I did know the width of the blade needed to be taking into consideration when cutting, as you explained. Most importantly to me, I learn a lot from your videos. You are excellent at explaining things, and unlike others, you are very direct, honest and to the point. I’m a lifelong DIY’er. Not great at anything just average, but I think even highly skilled people learn from your videos, as they serve as reminders for the pros and tips for us beginners and average people.
Thank you, Rick! I really appreciate the positive feedback 🙂 I always try to pack a lot of info in with little distraction. I’m glad it’s helping out there!
You are a champion. You know how to explain things for everyone to have a much wider understanding.
In carpentry when calling a measurement we would say 48" leave the line or take the line. Knowing that 1/8th inch difference. Easier than trying to say 47 7/8th. In wood working 1/8th inch is huge.
Its more so in furniture making. Where a 64th of an inch is the difference from a seemless dovetail joint. And throwing it away. Also, we cut them by hand.
This is why we use millimetres.
@@thomassaldana2465 a millimeter is more than a thirty second of an inch. A sixty fourth of an inch is half of a thirty second. Or about 0.4 mm.
I've said and heard that a few times, when I first start framing. But it's definitely not easier than "trying" to say 47 7/8.
@@nwcarpenter2878 what's so hard about saying forty seven and seven eights? Or you could say four score and seven inches plus seven parts of eight. If you go in for that ye olde stuff.
As someone who is getting ready to get into woodworking I found this video presentation excellent! I'll be doing a lot of projects with my 14yo daughter and I've been trying to recount all the safety lessons I've learned by watching videos such as this. I think I'll just let you do that from now on and have her watch your videos. Very well done, and thank you!
I'm just a hobbyist woodworker and used to ignore the kerf because I figured it was so small I was going to make much bigger errors. Then I learned that it was a full 1/8" and began to understand why people worried about it - and why my projects were always wonky. Now I always account for it when I measure and line up cuts. I even consider it when planning how many pieces I can get from a sheet of plywood. Kerf width matters and it makes a difference when you work with it.
Well, that blows most of my summer plans for doing maintenance around the house. Before I can even start I need to watch ALL of your videos to learn how to correctly do the things I thought I already knew how to do.
for building fine furniture, i use a marking knife for all cut lines and indicate with a pencil which side of the line to cut. I generally work to 32's if using a ruler, but generally make cut lines against work pieces for exact fit. when using a hand saw, make a knife line then use a chisel to deepen the cut side and cut the fibers - like Paul Sellers does, he calls it a "knife wall". for house carpentry, a pencil is good enough, working to 16ths. A lot of power saw blades have a 3/32 kerf.
You've explained alot I knew about most of this since I was 3. My grandpa thought me how to use every tool he had. I used to play with saws and in sawdust iv always been intrested in woodworking I work with it a lot now
Ethan: Thanks for the detailed discussion on "Kerf". You are a master explainer, and we all thank you for that!
Thank you, Romeo! 😄
I just got a battery powered circular saw to make stuff. I'm glad you taught me this in this video.
Thank you for the lesson Ethan. You Sir explained that like a Schoolmaster with a yard stick in his hand. I'm always learning from you; including Kerf.
I never heard of it, but now I know. Thank you.
10 tears of hardwood installation and I already knew all these concepts. I just never heard the term KERF. Thanks
Great job. Love your channel. I've been cutting with power tools for 55 years and I liked all you had to say. Power saws cut very fast with lasting results. Always be careful. Practice, practice, practice safely.
I’m a novice woodworker and followed you after stumbling on to one of your videos. I enjoy watching you pass on your knowledge in a way non carpenters can understand. Would love if you can explain thin and full kerf blades. Especially, ones you think are better for newbies and diyers.
I would like to share an incident with you that I had last week with ripping a piece of wood. As I was running it through the table, saw to rip my board. I noticed that the wood stopped. I did not try to force it. I turned it off and I studied what was going on. I noticed the board that was past though the riving knife had pinched back together. So I got a small shim and placed it in the cut to spread it apart. It works! I finally finished my cut with no problem!
Yes - very educational. Getting into novice carpenter work for my home projects, I needed this video. So simple yet I know I have overlooked this skill. Thank you for professional tips!
I have always measured the next cut AFTER cutting the first this way, I am always measuring correct distance from the cut, never marking multiple cuts out before cutting them. Takes only a little more time than doing them all at once, but saves frustration and money to take that little amount of time.
I agree that KERF is a good topic that should be discussed. HOWEVER, "kickback" IMHO is a more important word. While it is related to KERF it can happen for a wide variety of reasons. If your saw blade and fence are not properly aligned kickback can occur. If a push block is not used to remove the cut piece away from the blade/fence area after its cut a loose piece can be launched causing serious injury. Good video overall.
Hi There, I am a beginner woodworker and do little over the weekend or when time allow. Just like to say your videos are great and very informative. Especially for beginners like myself. THANK YOU LOTS !!!
This was the absolute BEST information I have ever heard to date (as I move on to begin learning to use my table saw).Thank-you.
Yes I agree with you. Im just getting into wood working, and I find that you have an excellent method of exposition and youve made an excellent pathway for me to understand things that I have not seen in a slew of other videos Ive seen on TH-cam. Ive never had anyone to show me any of this. Im teaching myself by watching these videos, and yours are by far the most informative ive come across.. Thank you
As a non-woodworker I'm loving your content. Kerf was amazing to understand.
Thank you, David! 🙂
Great presentation, I have been working with timber for a number of years, but nowadays, I am just so mindful, how easy it is for a saw blade to bind. I have been shoddy on occasions with my use, I have seen others as well, this video is a wake up call. Cheers
You are so awesome. This channel is like a master class for DIY. I don’t do a lot…..yet, but the use sacrificial piece of wood when using the miter saw makes so much sense and I would never have thought to do so!
I've always struggled with understanding kerf. Not anymore. Your teaching skills are exceptional and for someone like me, a few notches above novice, this video will be watched a few more times before I make my next cuts on an outdoor chair I plan on making. I'm pretty sure I won't be making adjustment cuts to make each piece the same length!
You're definitely right. I can't believe how many people screw up cutting boards to the correct size due to the kerf. Luckiky where I work you don't have to be exact, just close.
As a female I haven't been taken seriously when I would ask questions about wood working. You explained a question that I had but was never explained, (which side of the line do I cut). Now I know why I have some pieces a bit longer than the others. And now I know to measure, cut, then measure a piece of wood, instead of measuring the wood in the size(s) I want, then cut. Thank so much for explaining this. I love watching your videos.
You’re welcome, Renee! I really glad the videos are helpful! I don’t yet have a very strong female viewership for this channel, but I’m hoping that changes over time. So, I’m happy to hear from woodworkers like yourself 🙂
Why do you think your gender has any bearing on how you are taken? You think us guys take other guys seriously? You must be joking!
Thank you for all the information on kerf. Although I was aware of kerf, I was not knowledgeable enough.😃👍
As someone who is barely 18 and starting to get into woodworking, I've definitely learned something new.
A really, simple and clear explanation of kerf; a word I was not familiar with, but I have experienced the downsides of getting it wrong! Thank you, once again, for sharing your experience, skills and philosophy
Good video. I like to use a backer block on the miter saw. It stops tear out. You can cut smaller pieces of wood with a backer block. I will take a stick and hold the small piece of wood against the backer block for safety when I cut.
This is why a sliding chopsaw is superior! I don't use the laser just the side of the tooth!
Brand new to wood working and this was super helpful! It seems so obvious but I’d never really given it much thought until now. Keep up the awesome work!
I was today years old when I learned about kerf. No wonder my cuts are off! Thanks for the tips!
This is a great subject reinforcing awareness to the concept of kerf. I was lucky to have a dad that was willing to teach and to let me experience hands-on. I actually remember when I first grasped the awareness of the width of the blade and cutting outside or sometimes inside the line. As discussed in the presentation, this is one of the concepts that changed my skill level and took my work to another level. And by including safety in the subject matter, it brings a whole new light. Regardless if we are skilled or rookies, it is good to see the demo and hear the words and refresh the concept. Thanks for a good presentation. It is always good to see a skilled craftsman share knowledge and explain how things work.
Thanks! Greg
Im not close to being a professional but i tend to find ways to be more efficient but one thing i found out in my own experience is you can help the cuts with some wax rubbed on the blade on a precise cut and a little bit on the piece you about to cut to give it that lubrication effect just enough to make it easier on the motor and lifespand of the blade
Ugh. I eff this up STILL, but table sleds have really helped me with this, along with footing the bill when "mistakes were made." appreciate every darned video you've shared, I've upped my game considerably in the woodshop because of it. Looking forward to more expertise in the future.
Very informative. Most of your points I was already familiar with but the riving knife was new, I thought it was there only to attached the blade guard, not even thinking it was to maintain the opening of the kerf to prevent binding of the blade. Great job!
As a newly self proclaimed handy-man in training your videos have been invaluable, thank you.
Thanks for watching, Heathen!
Love. This. Video. And 100% agree with you on kerf importance. I’ve been working with wood a long time as a personal interest and have learned a lot over the years from courses, reading, carpenters and others in the trades. But this was all pre-TH-cam era and no one talked about kerf. Thank you for the deep dive. Very well presented!
Thank you, Trent! I appreciate the feedback 😄
While I don't do very much woodworking, saw kerf is a subject that I do know, because I run a portable sawmill for a living, I normally figure a 16th for the kerf and an 8th for shrink while drying, so if I an cutting 4/4 boards the bottom board is cut 1 1/8, and for every cut after that I go up 1 3/16, that way every board comes off the mill the same mesurement.
Agreed.
Solid advice.
And very much appreciated.
My old worn out circular saw blade needs to be switched out for one of the new ones that I have on hand.
( Only have about a dozen of the new ones ready to go )
Being "nostalgic" & keeping the original blade is a safety hazard, but it's always "just one more project" then I'll swap it out.
That may not be smart, or safe, on my part.
Great video. I'm a commercial constructi carpenter and you did a great job. I can tell you poured a lot into the video. You definitely gained my sub!
As for me, I think mine is more of the attitude and mindset than a word:
SAFETY
A job, especially carpentry (at least for me speaking in my setting of commercial construction carpentry), can be very dangerous in a multitude of ways. You can anyways get another job, but you will never get back your health or your body if you sacrifice your safety for your job.
Be safe and live another day!