Cutting Angles

[morpheus83uk]

Hello,

When cutting angles I always end up with the wood being smaller than I need. Is there an estimate that would allow this regardless of the angle?

For example when I setup my tablesaw I set the guide to the size of wood I have and lock it in place. When I cut it I seem to lose some of the length or width (depending on what I am cutting) making everything else now smaller than intended.

Any help appreciated.

James

 

[Burnerman]

Cut on the waste side of your line.....this avoids the few mm's or so blade thickness.
John

 

[Alec_t]

Cut a waste piece of wood to check the width of a saw-cut, then allow for that width when setting the guide.

 

[morpheus83uk]

Thanks I will give them a go. I was thinking if there is an estimate that people use when using angles as it would be worth knowing.

If I tested a cut at 45 degrees would this then be the same as a 30 degree cut for the width of cut or would I need to test for each angle I do?

Thanks

James

 

[Roger928]

If I tested a cut at 45 degrees would this then be the same as a 30 degree cut

45 degrees is 45 degrees and 30 is 30.
So no, not the same.

 

[morpheus83uk]

Thanks so there isn't a rule of thumb just trial and error?

 

[Roger928]

A tricky mitre angle can be creeped up on from an oversized cut.
The angles on these curved chair backs is a prime example.
A mistake here and I'd have ruined the curved pieces.

 

[morpheus83uk]

Ok thanks so when getting my wood cut if I allow say 10mm more to allow for the angles? I will more than likely be doing 45 degrees for the most part but others when the occasion calls.

Thanks

James

 

[Deleted member 174758]

It sounds almost like you are measuring the cut using the scale on the rip fence on a saw which tilts to the right, but that when you rip down timber you are expecting the measurement on the upper surface to be that on the rip scale. If so it won't be - the scale will indicate the measurement on the lower surface.