Q & A
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Staining and Glue
Do I need to avoid using stain (particularly oil-based such as Minwax) on the areas where glue (e.g., Titebond) will be applied? Or will the glue hold even on waxed areas?
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Tools for Rough-Cut Wood
I want to start with rough-cut wood. What are the “best” tools for preparing rough-cut wood and what are the “essential” tools?
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Spray Finish
I understand that you can use mineral turpentine to wipe down timber with oil-based stains, but is it OK to use mentholated spirits on waterbased stain?
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Stain Before Gluing
The carcasses will be constructed of birch plywood, and receive a mahogany stain and polyurethane finish. Can I stain the carcass components prior to glue-up and assembly?
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How Do I Make a Tapering Jig?
This reader wants to know how to make a tapering jig. Our experts, Michael Dresdner and Rob Johnstone weigh in on their methods.
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Wavy Veneer Problems
After several months the surface has become wavy although I can’t feel any bubbles under the veneer. What went wrong?
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Reinforcing Stub Tenon Joints
I know that gluing a solid wood panel would interfere with wood movement, but what if I used 1/4″ plywood panel and glued along the entire inside edge to reinforce the joint?
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Salvaging Old Doors
Should we use a chemical stripper or sand off the old finish? Should I refinish it with shellac or modern polyurethane?
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Is Chipping Just a Fact of Life?
My local woodworkers’ supply store tells me the amount of chipping is normal with oak grain, but I never see this problem with pieces made at large cabinet shops. Is their equipment that much better?
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Questioning Conventional Wisdom on Table Saws
Since there are guides for making straight cuts with a portable handsaw and you can do many things with a bandsaw and a router, do I really need a table saw?
