It happens all the time: woodworkers proudly survey their handiwork only to discover gaps in the glue joints and between parts—the planks just don’t lie flat and square. The solution? Jointers, planers, and this comprehensive guide. The latest in the Popular Mechanics Workshop series, it delves into every aspect of each tool—the basic anatomy, features, motor sizes, dust ports, maximum cut, and more. Check out bench top, stationary, and portable models of each; accessories, such as push sticks and knife-sharpening jigs; and all the must-know techniques, including face and edge jointing and staggered cut planing. There are advanced procedures, too—from rabetting and tapering a post to ganged cuts and molding—as well as fixtures to make, maintenance and repair advice, and exciting projects.
