From speed square to fast fence

My bandsaw did not come with a rip fence, so I needed a simple solution. Watching carpenters use a speed square as a cutting guide gave me an idea. I simply clamp the square to the table with its flange along the front edge for a handy, reliable fence that I can pop on and off as needed.

A speed square costs only a few dollars, and its thick base makes it easy to square it to the table. Also, its ¹⁄₄ "-thick body provides enough edge to act perfectly as a guide for most ripping tasks.
—Adeline Koebel, Manitowoc, Wis.