Understanding Resawing On A Bandsaw – A Short Guide

​Resawing is a fundamental woodworking technique that involves slicing a thick board into thinner slabs, enabling woodworkers to create book-matched panels, veneers, or custom thicknesses for various projects. Mastering resawing on a bandsaw enhances material efficiency and opens up new design possibilities. This guide will walk you through the essentials of resawing, including blade selection, setup, and safety considerations.​

Understanding Resawing

Resawing differs from standard ripping; while ripping cuts through a board’s thickness, resawing cuts through its width. This process requires precision to achieve straight, smooth cuts that minimize waste and reduce the need for extensive planing or sanding.​

Choosing the Right Blade

Selecting an appropriate bandsaw blade is crucial for successful resawing. Consider the following factors:​

• Tooth Per Inch (TPI): A blade with 3 teeth per inch (TPI) is ideal for resawing. This configuration provides large gullets between teeth to efficiently clear sawdust, preventing the blade from binding and ensuring a smoother cut. ​
• Blade Width: A wider blade offers greater beam strength, which helps maintain straight cuts. However, ensure your bandsaw can accommodate the chosen blade width. ​
• Blade Type: The Wood Slicer Resaw Bandsaw Blade is renowned for its thin kerf and precision cutting, making it a popular choice among woodworkers for resawing tasks. ​

Setting Up Your Bandsaw

Proper setup of your bandsaw is essential for accurate resawing:

• Blade Tension: Ensure the blade is tensioned correctly according to the manufacturer’s specifications. Adequate tension helps the blade track properly and reduces deflection during the cut.​
• Blade Tracking: Adjust the upper and lower wheels so that the blade runs centrally on the tires. Proper tracking prevents the blade from wandering during the cut.​
• Guide Bearings: Position the guide bearings or blocks close to the blade without touching it. This support minimizes blade deflection and enhances cutting accuracy.​
• Fence Alignment: Align the fence parallel to the blade’s path. Some blades may exhibit a natural drift; in such cases, adjust the fence to match the blade’s drift angle to maintain straight cuts. ​

Resawing Techniques

Implementing effective techniques will improve your resawing results:

• Feed Rate: Feed the workpiece at a consistent, moderate pace. Feeding too quickly can cause the blade to drift or produce a rough cut, while feeding too slowly may burn the wood. ​
• Point Block Method: For minimal setup, use a point block (a single point fence) to guide the wood. This method allows you to adjust for blade drift manually by steering the workpiece along a marked line. ​
• Straight Fence Method: For multiple, consistent cuts, use a tall, straight fence adjusted to the blade’s drift angle. This setup provides support for the workpiece and ensures uniform thickness across cuts. ​

Safety Considerations

Always prioritize safety when resawing:

• Push Blocks and Sticks: Utilize push blocks or sticks to keep your hands at a safe distance from the blade, especially when finishing a cut.​
• Avoiding Blade Binding: Ensure the workpiece is flat and stable. Irregular or warped wood can cause the blade to bind or the workpiece to kick back.​
• Protective Equipment: Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as safety glasses and hearing protection, to safeguard against dust and noise.​

Maintaining Your Bandsaw Blade

Regular maintenance of your bandsaw blade extends its lifespan and ensures optimal performance:

• Cleaning: Resin and sawdust buildup can dull the blade and affect cutting accuracy. Clean the blade regularly using a blade and bit cleaner to remove deposits. ​
• Lubrication: Applying a blade lubricant can reduce friction, minimize heat buildup, and prevent resin accumulation during cuts. ​

By understanding the nuances of resawing and implementing these guidelines, you can achieve precise, smooth cuts that enhance the quality and efficiency of your woodworking projects.