For years, I thought I had the bandsaw figured out. My method was straightforward: cut as close to the lines as possible and then rely on sanding to clean up the edges. It worked, but it was labor-intensive, generating a lot of dust and requiring significant effort. It wasn’t until I discovered a new technique for steering the blade that I realized I had been missing out on the bandsaw's true potential.

The Traditional Method: Time-Consuming and Inefficient

My old routine involved cutting rough shapes and then spending hours sanding to perfect them. This approach, while functional, wasn’t the most efficient. I had always been cautious about getting too close to my lines, opting to leave a little extra material to sand down later. This resulted in a lot of extra work and less than optimal results.

A Game-Changing Discovery

Everything changed when I learned how to steer the bandsaw blade properly. Instead of relying on a fence or fearing crossing over the lines, I started cutting directly on my lines with remarkable accuracy. The secret? Steering with the back of the blade rather than the teeth at the front.

Freehand cut on the Harvey Alpha Bandsaw.

This technique might seem unusual, but it’s incredibly effective. By guiding the blade with its back edge, I can achieve smoother and straighter cuts, even on curves. This method reduces the need for extensive sanding and makes the bandsaw far more versatile.

The Science Behind the Technique

The principle behind this technique is surprisingly simple. The kerf, or the width of the cut made by the blade, is always wider than the blade itself. This happens because the teeth on a bandsaw blade are slightly bent to the left and right. This tooth set causes the blade to cut a wider kerf than its actual thickness.

This extra room in the kerf allows you to steer the blade more effectively. By using the edge of the kerf as a guide, you can make perfectly straight cuts or follow curves with greater ease.

Kerf cut by the bandsaw is wider than the blade is thick.

How to Steer the Blade

To see this technique in action, watch as I rip a strip from a workpiece. Notice how I keep the back of the blade gently touching the side of the kerf. This subtle contact is enough to guide the blade without forcing it. Essentially, I’m using the kerf’s edge as a fence to keep the blade on track.

This method makes the cut somewhat self-guiding. Initially, you may need to steer a bit more, but once the blade is fully within the kerf, the back edge rides along the kerf’s side, establishing a straight path. As the cut progresses, the kerf grows longer, providing a consistent guide.

Flexibility and Precision

This technique is versatile. Whether you’re cutting straight lines or gradual curves—such as those needed for chair legs or other furniture parts—you’ll find that the side of the kerf helps to steady and guide the back of the blade. Even when cutting curves, the blade remains on track with minimal effort.

Tips for Success

Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

Blade Width: Wider blades are easier to control. I use a 1/2-inch blade, which works well. A 3/8-inch blade is also effective, though a 1/4-inch blade can be a bit trickier.

Wood Thickness: This technique works regardless of the wood’s thickness. Whether you’re cutting hardboard or thicker materials, the principle remains the same.

Saw Maintenance: A well-tuned bandsaw is crucial. Ensure your saw is properly set up, with guides correctly adjusted and the blade tracking accurately. For more on tuning your bandsaw, check out my linked post.

Conclusion

If you’re looking to elevate your bandsaw skills, this technique is a game-changer. By focusing on guiding the back of the blade instead of the teeth, you’ll achieve smoother cuts, reduce sanding time, and make the most out of your bandsaw. Give it a try and experience the difference for yourself. Happy woodworking!

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UNLOCKING THE FULL POTENTIAL OF YOUR BANDSAW