Using a Jointer (continued)
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Surfacing

Figure 6-12. A push block will help maintain even pressure, give better control over the stock, and keep your hands out of the danger zone.

Surfacing-jointing the face of a piece of stock-is usually done for one of three reasons: to smooth up a rough surface, to thin down a workpiece, or to remove a warp. Always use extra care when you surface because the top of the work is below the top of the fence and your hands are close to the danger zone. Warning: Always use a push stick or push blocks to move the stock over the cutterhead. Never try to surface a piece of stock less than 12" long or 1/4" thick. If you need a smaller component for a project, do your jointer work on a larger piece and cut off what you need.

The technique for handling and feeding the stock is similar to edge jointing. However, since the stock lies flat on the table below the top of the fence, always use a push stick or push blocks (Figure 6-12). They help you to maintain even pressure, give you better control over the stock, and help keep your hands out of the danger zone. As you get used to using a push stick and push blocks, you'll find they may actually improve your woodworking. Since a push stick or a push block keeps your fingers safe, you feel more confident while making a cut. This confidence helps you achieve better control, and better control means a better cut.

If you are using push blocks with sponge rubber bottoms, you may want to modify the hand movements when cutting. Use your left hand to position the push block about midway along the infeed table and move the push block forward with the stock while maintaining downward pressure. As the push block starts to enter the danger zone, stop the feed, bring the left hand back to its starting point, and then continue. With a little practice, these short movements can be made without affecting the quality of the cut.

Continue to Squaring Stock
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