Getting the Most From Your Bandsaw

The bandsaw can be one of the most versatile, accurate and safe machines in your workshop—providing it is set up and used properly. A new or even a well used bandsaw with a ½ HP motor can be tuned to cut precision joints or resaw flawlessly without purchasing aftermarket accessories or expensive blades. Installing new tires, selecting and setting blade tension, tracking, cutting curves and resawing will be covered.  A variety of useful jigs designed to be used with the bandsaw will be demonstrated. Illustrations will be provided so you can make your own.    Michael operates one of the most diversely equipped workshops in North America.  It includes three industrial table saws but he can’t remember the last time he ripped a piece of wood on a table saw.  Instead, he prefers to use a vintage 15” General Mfg. bandsaw. He bought this bandsaw in 1974, tracked the blade once with only modest tension, installed a factory fence parallel to the miter slot and has not had to adjust it in 50 years. That is one of nine bandsaws in his workshop.    Let the bandsaw master show you how to make this simple machine the most versatile in your workshop. This class will be limited to 12 students; while mostly demonstration, the class size will allow for some student hands on.

Michael Fortune bio