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Wipe Out Chip-Out

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More Anti-Chip Tips

More anti-chip tips

Different situations call for different measures to beat chip-out. Here are some more tips:

Score the top side of plywood with a utility knife and a straightedge before cutting with a circular saw. The side of the saw blade against the "keeper" edge should run in the scored cut.
When routing a hinge mortise, first make a knife cut at the point where the bit will emerge from the wood.
If you do get minor chip-out with the tablesaw, clean it up at the router table. The ideal bit for this step is an up/downcut spiral bit.
Apply a thin coat of the finish you'll use later. It hardens the surface of the wood, and can be scraped or sanded off if necessary.
Use a backer board when using the drill press, and move the board along with the workpiece for multiple holes. That way, you'll always have solid support underneath.

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Comments (3)

jayseagull wrote:

The masking tape does minimize the chipping. However, if you have a good straight-edge, scoring the cut-line with a utility knife will all but eliminate the chances of chipping.

8/20/2010 07:47:55 AM Report Abuse

rtl71 wrote:

I also use 1 1/2" masking tape to not only cross cut but cuts with the grain. Two minutes of preparation saves a lot of grief later...

8/19/2010 12:07:57 PM Report Abuse

rudemeister44 wrote:

I use masking tape to minimize chip-out when cutting with my circular saw. Also makes the cutting line easier to see! Easy to pull off when cut is done.

8/19/2010 10:33:09 AM Report Abuse