Kreg Owners' Community

Welcome to the Kreg Owners' Community!
 
This thread is the best place to introduce yourself and let other Community members get to know you. Please include your name, where you're from, your experience building with wood, why you joined this Community, and any other interesting facts about yourself. Also, feel free to share links to your blog, personal website, etc.

Once you've introduced yourself, be sure to check out Helpful Tips for New Members.

We hope that you find great use and enjoyment from the Kreg Owners' Community!

-KregRep

Views: 76951

Reply to This

Replies to This Discussion

Welcome Gary,

  What kind of catalogs are you looking for?

  Make a brief list of what you are interested in making.

  Start out with simple projects---items that you could use around the house or shop.

Re Tools:

Lots of tools, on the market---

for beginners as well as the professional craftsman.

  Make an inventory list of the tools you presently have, and a list of the tools that you’ll need and then a list of tools you want.

  1. Hand tools
  2. Power tools

A table saw is a necessity.

I’d do a ‘’google search’’---enter an item or topic, under ‘’advance search’’.

Lots of valuable info available on the internet.  (you’ll need to peruse the subject matter and just have to weed out the bs.  Lots of info out there that is just babbling, and nothing of value.  You’ll learn as you go).

  Make bookmark files in your pc---(I use ‘’google chrome’’, it’s the best I’ve found to date).

Labeled: Woodworking; Tools; Plans; woods; glues; finishing; woodworking websites, etc.

When you find an item of interest, such as ‘’Kreg’’, label the file and bookmark the item.  Then make sub-folders for Kreg tools, fasteners, etc.

  Start your search for “woodworking websites’’, then peruse the contents.

Bookmark the items of interest, file them in an applicable labeled folder.

Peruse the various topics, such as ‘’tool reviews”.

  Learn the basics for the proper use of hand tools, before getting into power tools.

  “Fasteners’’ is a huge subject.  Many threaded fasteners are available---each has a specific intended application and use. 

I meet lots of people, who want to use a power saw but don’t know how to use a handsaw.  Many times I will grab a hand saw vs using a power saw---(I’m partial to the Japanese razor saws).  Some want to buy and use a router, but don’t the first thing about basic joinery methods.

One should learn the proper use of a hand-held router before venturing into a router table.

( I firmly believe one needs to properly use hand tools before venturing into power tools.

That’s how I was taught and learned).

  One needs to learn the various woods and their uses, limitations, etc--- how to construct objects from wood---how to finish the wood---interior as well as exterior.

  There are many books on today’s market---hand tools, power tools, finishing, fastening and joining, you name it, it’s out there.  Some are great, some are good, and some are so-so.   Lots of books contain duplications---some are better illustrated and offer more detail.  There are also many woodworking magazines to subscribe to---not only for the content but for the details in making a project.

Valuable assets to any shop, are ‘’jigs’’--- for making simple cutting and drilling.

Peruse the contents and select those that are most suitable for your needs.

  You can visit your local library---some are well stocked, as well as some woodworking businesses, such as “rockler”, ‘’wood workers supply, woodcraft, and many more.  Amazon is another good source for books.

Obtain some wood scrap and cutoffs, and go-to-it.

Make notes and sketches---let your imagination run wild---one idea begets another, and so on.

Practice

Practice

Practice

  Start out making simple projects---stools, shelves, bookshelves, and the like------anything of interest that you can put to use around your home and shop,

Using hand tools and simple power tools, before venturing into the expensive power tools.

Some projects will dictate using screws, while other projects can use other joinery methods--- such as dowels, mortise and tenon, splines, etc.  (A book on joinery is essential).   

  That sums it up for this session.

Until the next time--- make lots of sawdust--- sawing, drilling/boring, sanding, and by all means, finishing.

  Aka  “Darga’s WoodWerkX’’



G Stuart said:

Hiya,im Gary from kent in the UK and After being a qualified heating engineer over a 25 year period i had a massive back injury leaving me disabled.Now taking up woodworking as a hobby.Just completed a 10x6 shed and converting it into a mini workshop.

Finding it a daunting task of selecting tools, Have basic tools,ie drills,cordless,jigsaw etc, being Dewalt,Bosch etc, i like the look of Trend for biscuit cutters,routers  and the Kreg Jigs etc

Have been looking around for some catalogues

Found this site and hope that i can get some sound advice of what to buy and not to buy.

thanks in advance for anyone who may be so kind to steer me in the right direction.

Ken makes a excellent point of getting to know hand tools prior to power.   I found power tools to be intimidating but I am slowly becoming more confidant with their use.   Today I was ripping some 4x8 sheets, on the floor of the garage using the Kreg rip cut.   Worked like a charm!   I would love to some day invest in a table saw but again, the intimidation factor is holding me back.   There were no shop classes for gals when I went to school.  Instead they taught me how to cook artichokes.  Never used that knowledge once :)   How does someone understand the various safety factors in operating a table saw on their own?

Hi rita, I sent you a friend request as I just recently went through the same exact emotions concerning a table saw. Mybe we can switch table saw notes for cooking notes.

Rita,

Many answers to your question, re ''table saw safety''---

can be obtained, by searching the internet.

Here's are a few, that will get you started:

http://www.powertoolinstitute.com/pti_pages/safetyvideo_3_TableSawS...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y9V4FyCX97Y

http://www.woodcraft.com/Articles/Articles.aspx?articleid=317&p...

http://www.rockler.com/articles/table-saw-safety-tips.cfm

bookmark them---

peruse them often.

 

Check with your local community college---

wood working classes may be offered.

(some high schools, also offer woodworking classes---check with the district office).

 

  The most important issues with power tools are:

#1 read an become totally familiar with the equipment manual---

#2 read an become totally familiar with the equipment manual---

#3 read an become totally familiar with the equipment manual---

I encourage everyone to become totally familiar with the equipment, its features and safety issues, before proceeding with using the power tool.

Akin to walking and chewing gum.

SAFETY is of utmost importance.

Remember---

ALWAYS disconnect the power tool from the electric service, when the power tools is not in operation, and the like.

ALWAYS stay focused on the task at hand, while performing machining operations.

KEEP BOTH EYES FOCUSED on the saw blade, and the cut you're making.

I always, well almost, wear hearing protection---it protects your hearing, and one is less likely to be distracted by someone talking to you while a machining operation is performed.

ALWAYS were eye protection---

and in some cases, a face shield is necessary.

Goggles offer better eye protection over glasses.

Flying particles can glance off your cheek and get into your eye.

Don't let distractions cause you to turn away---this is when an accident can occur.

Accidents can happen, quicker than a blink of an eye---you will not have time to respond, before an injury occurs.

==================

Rita Baske said:

Ken makes a excellent point of getting to know hand tools prior to power.   I found power tools to be intimidating but I am slowly becoming more confidant with their use.   Today I was ripping some 4x8 sheets, on the floor of the garage using the Kreg rip cut.   Worked like a charm!   I would love to some day invest in a table saw but again, the intimidation factor is holding me back.   There were no shop classes for gals when I went to school.  Instead they taught me how to cook artichokes.  Never used that knowledge once :)   How does someone understand the various safety factors in operating a table saw on their own?

Rita,

If you don't have a table saw, at this time, you can use an electric circular hand saw, 

for ripping and cross cutting.

Set the saw blade teeth to protrude about 1/4''. 

Sheet goods can be cut, by laying the sheet material on 2x4 stock, set on the garage/shop floor or driveway.

The 2x4 stock will suspend the project piece up off the floor, to allow for saw blade clearance.

When I've had to make cuts, with the project piece, above earth, like grass or gravel, I use (2) 2x4 stacked and secured together, to allow additional clearance with the ground.

A work piece can also be set on suitable work stands, such as saw horses.  Use suitable spacers so the saw blade doesn't cut into the work stand.

=============

Rita Baske said:

Ken makes a excellent point of getting to know hand tools prior to power.   I found power tools to be intimidating but I am slowly becoming more confidant with their use.   Today I was ripping some 4x8 sheets, on the floor of the garage using the Kreg rip cut.   Worked like a charm!   I would love to some day invest in a table saw but again, the intimidation factor is holding me back.   There were no shop classes for gals when I went to school.  Instead they taught me how to cook artichokes.  Never used that knowledge once :)   How does someone understand the various safety factors in operating a table saw on their own?

Thanks for the links.  I am sure they will come in handy.   My ex left behind many power tools when we divorced but without a manual to go with,  I was at a loss to the various functions or uses.   I have purchased new tools and yes,  view the manuals from front to back.  It is a great aid.   Staying focused comes naturally.   I draw blood for a living.   Safety on the job to avoid needlesticks plays well in the shop as well and since I use my hands for a living,  I am even more on guard of where my hands are placed in junction with the blade.   I live in a very small town so classes are limited.   I did try at one time to join a local woodworkers guild but the members were so advanced in their skills that I felt lost.

Thanks Jim.  I take it you are not fond of artichokes either :)
 
Jim Bertucci said:

Hi rita, I sent you a friend request as I just recently went through the same exact emotions concerning a table saw. Mybe we can switch table saw notes for cooking notes.

Ken,  I was doing exactly that today!   I first attempted to place the sheets on sawhorses but they were too heavy to lift so I used 2x4's on the floor just as you described.  I used the Kreg rip cut for the majority of the cuts but I have also made a straight edge jig for my circular saw.   At first I had trouble clamping the jig secure enough and the clamps would get in the way.   I ended up using a couple of wood screws and wha-la, no more drift.   The screw holes were on the back side of the piece I was cutting so no problem with the finished front.

Hello Rita,

I think you should consider writing  a book about your windfall of woodworking tools.

You could call it" I traded my husband for some wood working tools!! tee hee.

Don't be afraid to use those tools, as Ken and all the other members said or eluded to follow the "rules" and you will become more and more confident and injury free.

You will hurt yourself along the way its inevitable, but use the correct procedures and it will not deter you when a minor injury occurs, Make sure you have a First aid kit available a magnifying glass and a pair of tweezers  because those annoying splinters will get you, and when you least expect it, then if left unchecked may cause a more serious injury.

Have a read of the Table saw accidents website and there is heaps of injury's that have occurred, all mostly from ignorance complacency or inattention.

Its not suggested to scare you away from power tools simply to demonstrate that accidents do happen, and some very serious ones at that, all of which could have been prevented or reduced in their level of injury if educated on the trends. 

Woodworking by its very nature is a very private activity of which the solace,  lack of conversation is all part of the enjoyment.

Remember the intelligence is within the operator not the tool its simply doing what its designed for, efficient cutting. In some cases its quicker than your reflexes.

My table saw has bitten me about three times over the same amount of years, the latest I was foolishly cutting green timber logs and a flying off cut hit me on the nose, I wrote a report on it and retrospectively looked for a better guard, never found one so made my own and bought a face shield as well.

hiya many thanks guys for the great info and making me feel so welcome.

 

ive been lucky as all the years i spent in the heating trade i useto alot of different hand and power tools.

 

from a basic screwdriver up to routers,saw tables, even chainsaws,etc but most importantly became very respectful of power tools and how quickly they can bit you in the butt.

 

saw some horrific injuries over the years as i spent many years on construction sites.

 

i lived in the usa,long island in new york for 2 years as a service and installation engineer, working on oil boilers including steam etc.

 

unfortunatly due to the accident which happended whilst i was lifting a big cast iron section of a boiler i twisted and smashed 5 x discs which incurred me to have multiple surgeries involving screws pins etc being inserted

 

now no longer being able to work i focus on the positives and looking forward to making and of course making many mistakes with woodworking and hope to learn from my mistakes.

 

ive got a double mitre electric saw and also recently bought a magic mitre which have found very good.

 

have been saving scrap pieces of wood to practice on.

 

would like to buy next a router,biscuit cutter,router table, pocket cutter.

 

still have plenty of hand tools, including my electric drills, cordless's, saws,holesaw,etc,etc.

 

also most importantly got a decent pair of safety glasses

 

wish to next build myself a bookcase.

 

trying to find out how to join everything together,making the joints etc.

 

it will be fitted into an alcove inbetween a chimney and wall.

 

the wall however is well out of square so i thought about building a square carcuss out of MDF and packing it accordingly and fixing that to the wall then the bookcase made smaller to fit inside it

 

not sure if thats the right way to do it,but i suppose this is where my step learning curve is going to come from.

 

searched for books etc on making joints etc but there seems to be an endless amount on the market

 

have also been looking for free plans etc on how to join 2 x pieces of wood together,how to make a bookcase door and knowing how to rebate the wood to accept glass etc.

 

trying to also find catalogues on how a process of creating a joint is formed etc and what to use to make it thanks again  
Ken Darga said:

Welcome Gary,

  What kind of catalogs are you looking for?

  Make a brief list of what you are interested in making.

  Start out with simple projects---items that you could use around the house or shop.

Re Tools:

Lots of tools, on the market---

for beginners as well as the professional craftsman.

  Make an inventory list of the tools you presently have, and a list of the tools that you’ll need and then a list of tools you want.

  1. Hand tools
  2. Power tools

A table saw is a necessity.

I’d do a ‘’google search’’---enter an item or topic, under ‘’advance search’’.

Lots of valuable info available on the internet.  (you’ll need to peruse the subject matter and just have to weed out the bs.  Lots of info out there that is just babbling, and nothing of value.  You’ll learn as you go).

  Make bookmark files in your pc---(I use ‘’google chrome’’, it’s the best I’ve found to date).

Labeled: Woodworking; Tools; Plans; woods; glues; finishing; woodworking websites, etc.

When you find an item of interest, such as ‘’Kreg’’, label the file and bookmark the item.  Then make sub-folders for Kreg tools, fasteners, etc.

  Start your search for “woodworking websites’’, then peruse the contents.

Bookmark the items of interest, file them in an applicable labeled folder.

Peruse the various topics, such as ‘’tool reviews”.

  Learn the basics for the proper use of hand tools, before getting into power tools.

  “Fasteners’’ is a huge subject.  Many threaded fasteners are available---each has a specific intended application and use. 

I meet lots of people, who want to use a power saw but don’t know how to use a handsaw.  Many times I will grab a hand saw vs using a power saw---(I’m partial to the Japanese razor saws).  Some want to buy and use a router, but don’t the first thing about basic joinery methods.

One should learn the proper use of a hand-held router before venturing into a router table.

( I firmly believe one needs to properly use hand tools before venturing into power tools.

That’s how I was taught and learned).

  One needs to learn the various woods and their uses, limitations, etc--- how to construct objects from wood---how to finish the wood---interior as well as exterior.

  There are many books on today’s market---hand tools, power tools, finishing, fastening and joining, you name it, it’s out there.  Some are great, some are good, and some are so-so.   Lots of books contain duplications---some are better illustrated and offer more detail.  There are also many woodworking magazines to subscribe to---not only for the content but for the details in making a project.

Valuable assets to any shop, are ‘’jigs’’--- for making simple cutting and drilling.

Peruse the contents and select those that are most suitable for your needs.

  You can visit your local library---some are well stocked, as well as some woodworking businesses, such as “rockler”, ‘’wood workers supply, woodcraft, and many more.  Amazon is another good source for books.

Obtain some wood scrap and cutoffs, and go-to-it.

Make notes and sketches---let your imagination run wild---one idea begets another, and so on.

Practice

Practice

Practice

  Start out making simple projects---stools, shelves, bookshelves, and the like------anything of interest that you can put to use around your home and shop,

Using hand tools and simple power tools, before venturing into the expensive power tools.

Some projects will dictate using screws, while other projects can use other joinery methods--- such as dowels, mortise and tenon, splines, etc.  (A book on joinery is essential).   

  That sums it up for this session.

Until the next time--- make lots of sawdust--- sawing, drilling/boring, sanding, and by all means, finishing.

  Aka  “Darga’s WoodWerkX’’



G Stuart said:

Hiya,im Gary from kent in the UK and After being a qualified heating engineer over a 25 year period i had a massive back injury leaving me disabled.Now taking up woodworking as a hobby.Just completed a 10x6 shed and converting it into a mini workshop.

Finding it a daunting task of selecting tools, Have basic tools,ie drills,cordless,jigsaw etc, being Dewalt,Bosch etc, i like the look of Trend for biscuit cutters,routers  and the Kreg Jigs etc

Have been looking around for some catalogues

Found this site and hope that i can get some sound advice of what to buy and not to buy.

thanks in advance for anyone who may be so kind to steer me in the right direction.

Gary,

re joinery books---

The Joint Book: The complete guide to wood joinery.

author: Terrie Noll

The Joint Book: The Complete Guide to Wood Joinery

(the spiral bound is my choice).

It can be a great asset in any work shop---

it can fit right in your tool box/drawer.

It's a great book---well illustrated---great photo's---

There's others on the market, but this one gives the best bang for the buck.

Reply to Discussion

RSS

Need Help?

For Technical Support, please call 800-447-8638 or send a message. Reps are available Monday through Friday from 8am to 5pm CST. 

Videos

  • Add Videos
  • View All

Forum

Jig settings for 2 ¾ x 1 ½ boards with 30 degree miters?

I making a hex ring out of 2x4s ripped to 2 ¾ inches wide with 30 degree miters.  What setting on the Jig should I used? 1 ½ is too much.  Thanks.Continue

Started by Patrick Halinski in Kreg Jig® Operation Dec 30, 2023.

40mm Cup Hinge Jig Question

Hi All.....I have the 35mm Kreg Jig hinge drill guide. The guide is great for 35mm Hinge Cups, but I have a speciality 40MM hinge cup to drill.Has anyone adapted the Kreg guide to work with 40mm Forsner drill bits? Or have a guide that works…Continue

Started by Ed Anderson in Beginners' Zone Oct 3, 2023.

Product Reviews

New Kreg 720Pro

I saw the video Kreg put out for this new jig and had high hopes for it.

I purchased one today and am very disappointed with it.

First the docking station is extremely cheap. The plastic is pathetic. A Lego has more…

Continue

Posted by Duke Leon on February 15, 2021 at 9:00pm

Not Pleased With Pocket Hole Construction

Several months ago, I purchased the Kreg K4MS so that I could build the Lego Table as outlined on the companion "buildsomething" web site which exclusively uses pocket hole construction.  I have considerable experience with conventional…

Continue

Posted by Robert Ringel on September 17, 2020 at 1:48pm — 9 Comments

© 2024   Created by KregRep.   Powered by

Badges  |  Report an Issue  |  Privacy Policy  |  Terms of Service

_