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A circular saw can be used much like a table saw if certain precautions are taken. The most important of these is the need for ample support on both sides of the blade.
On one side, this is accomplished by using a sacrificial surface such as plywood or MDF (medium density fiberboard) cut to size and clamped to a sturdy board; the other side is usually restricted to being supported only by the extension arm that holds it.
DIY Table Saw From Circular Saw
Equipment Needed:
- Circular Saw
- Table
- Wood Glue
- Drill
Materials Needed:
- Wood (Preferably Plywood)
Duration: 45-60 Minutes
Budget: $50-$100 (USD)
Steps:
- Drill holes in the wood, all the way through where the blade will be mounted.
- Line up the blade with these and measure to find out how deep they should go.
- Coat the inside of the hole with wood glue and fill it with drywall screws to attach it to your table saw’s table. Start from inside so that any stray glue doesn’t get on your saw’s path or anything else you might damage.
- Drill holes in a board that fits over your circular saw’s top for support- about halfway up, both side by side.
- Put a washer on each screw, then another washer and the board.
- Screw the top board to the table saw’s table using the same screws as before.
- Put glue on each side of your wood cutout, then attach it to your saw with drywall screws. The edges of this wood should not be flush with the table, so don’t put any spacers or labels on this part or it will catch on when you rip something.
- Attach a piece of 1×2 to support the blade and place some weights. You can either make other boards or use something fancy-like a wine rack (but keep in mind that wine racks are usually flammable).
How to Make a Circular Saw Into a Table Saw Video
Now you are ready to go, have fun using your table saw!
If you own a circular saw, or know someone who does, then you are in business. For a few dollars and thirty minutes of your time, you can convert that circular saw into a table saw capable of doing many things that would be very difficult with other types of blade.
One of the biggest appeals of this conversion is the fact that it is not permanent; unlike many other hacks, this one can be undone and put back to its original state in a matter of minutes if need be. In short: It’s all about saving money, getting more for what you have already bought and getting more use out of what’s already around.
An important thing to keep in mind while taking on this project is that a circular saw is in essence a power tool. It has its own motor and doesn’t need to be plugged into any outlet but will work just fine even when there is no electricity. Of course, you will have to make sure the blade is kept properly lubricated and that the guard is on at all times. In addition, it would be wise to purchase an extension arm or similar device so that it can remain mounted while you are working on your table saw conversion.
Features to Add for your DIY Table Saw
Miter Gauge
A miter gauge is a device that is used as a guide along the saw’s path to cut wood at a right angle. One side of the blade should be flush with this track and the other side needs to be on an edge.
C- Clamp (or Similar Clamp)
C-Clamps or similar clamps are a useful and versatile tool for many projects. They have a large clamp surface, which opens up the opportunity to clamp objects with either flat surfaces or irregular shapes.
Rip Fence
The rip fence is a steel or aluminum bar that is mounted parallel to the saw’s top and used with the extension arm. This guide should be able to slide easily along the top of the table saw and allow for setting any width you need.
Circular Saw Blade
A circular saw blade is the main cutting device that should be used when you are making a table saw conversion.
Choose the proper blade size for the material you will be cutting, but generally speaking, a small one and not a big one will do just fine. The right blade can be determined by its width and thickness. You need to have enough space between the outside of your wood and the router bit so as not to damage it when running it through or get caught on it.
Saw Stand
A saw stand is a device used to suspend a handsaw in an upright position. Saw stands are necessary when cutting long lengths of wood or when there is no convenient surface for the saw to be leaned against.
A saw stand consists of two pieces. The first, called the “stand,” is handy for mounting on a stable workbench and elevating the saw blade free from the work surface. The second piece, called the “supporter,” enables you to lay out long boards with ease.
The following are some options for materials: steel, aluminum, cast iron and plastic; it can be any material just so long as it will provide sufficient support under pressure and stability while being suspended in an upright position.
Outfeed Table
An outfeed table is a table that is placed behind the blade. This stabilizes the wood while it’s being cut.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I convert a mini circular saw to a table saw?
Yes, a mini circular saw can be a mini portable table saw.
Can I convert a miter saw to a table saw?
No, a miter saw cannot be converted into a table saw.
Can I convert a reciprocating saw to a table saw?
No, a reciprocating saw cannot be converted into a table saw.
Can I convert a jigsaw to a table saw?
No, a jigsaw cannot be converted into a table saw.
When should I choose a table saw over a circular saw?
If you have the best table saw for the money, you will rarely need a circular saw because your table saw can virtually do almost all the cuts a circular saw can do, at higher power and efficiency too!
Can a circular saw make a taper jig?
A taper jig is often always used with a table saw. But yes, a circular saw can make a taper jig, and can be useful if you know how to make a taper jig for a table saw.
Can I cut tenons with a circular saw?
Yes you can, although having a circular saw cut something that needs precision as a tenon joint will give you a hard time. Knowing how to cut tenons on a table saw is better for your time and workflow.
how to make a circular saw into a table saw Final Thoughts
This ends our How To Guide of How to Make a Circular Saw Into a Table Saw.
We hope the knowledge you gained here will help you in the future with your DIY or Professional Woodworking projects. We want you to be sure of that what you get from us are 100% facts, so please don’t hesitate to ask for advice or to advise us in return with accurate facts.
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Henry is a long time Trade Instructor at Dunwoody College of Technology. Henry has been teaching the trade of carpentry for over 15 years and is excited to share his knowledge with the next generation of builders. With his posts you will explore some general terms, tools, and techniques that are helpful for the beginning DIY Enthusiast!. He’ll also provide a list of all the best tips needed to start your building journey right away!
