DIY Network

Cutting Coves on the Table Saw From "DIY Tools & Techniques" episode DIT-329

Finished crown modling

Because a cove isn't a straight cut, a special technique must be used to cut coves using a table saw. In this segment, host David Thiel discusses the technique with guest Glen Huey.

DIY Tip: Always observe proper safety techniques when working with a table saw.

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1. You can cut coves on a table saw using an auxiliary fence set at an angle. To set the fence angle, first set the blade height about 1/4" higher than the depth of the stock. Place two boards on the table saw so that a corner of each board just impacts a tooth of the blade (figure A). This positioning will show you where to place the auxiliary fence. Glen recommends placing the auxiliary fence to the right of the blade so that you can use it to press the wood against during the cut. Placing the fence in such a manner allows you to cut the cove in the center of the board. You want to use almost the full width of the stock for the cut, leaving only a little bit of flat stock on either side.

2. Once you’ve got the fence set, drop the blade back down. The cove has to be cut in several passes, raising the blade incrementally (and slightly) between each pass (figure B).

Figure A

Figure B

3. Then, determine where you will cut the remaining edges to complete the molding. You will be making two 45-degree angle cuts and to 90-degree angle cuts (figure C)

4. For the next cut, set the blade at a 45-degree angle. The blade should be at a height about 1/4" higher than the cut itself (figure D). After completing the first cut, turn the board around cut the other side.

Figure C

Figure D

5. Set the blade back to a 90-degree angle. Align the blade with the uncut edge that remains. This cut will remove the little bit of flat stock left from the first cuts in the process (figure E).

Figure E

That’s it! Now you’ve got a great piece of do-it-yourself crown molding.

RESOURCES :

Delta X5 Table Saw
USA: 800-223-7278 Canada 800-463-3582
Email: contactus@pnrtoolgrp.com
Delta Machinery
4825 Hwy. 45 North
P.O. Box 2468
Jackson, TN 38302-2468
Website: www.deltawoodworking.com

HTC Outfeed Roller Table
HTC Products, Inc.
332 E. Lincoln Ave.
Royal Oak, MI 48068
Phone: 800-624-2027

GUESTS :

Glen Huey
The Woodworker's Edge DVD
6895 Dutchland Blvd.
Middletown, OH 45044
Phone: 513-779-9798
E-mail: glen@woodworkersedge.com
Website: www.woodworkersedge.com