Introduction to Milling: Jointing, plaining and Table saw

Want to get more out of your lumber and turn rough boards into project-ready material? Curious how woodworkers get perfectly flat, square and usable stock from rough-milled lumber?

In this hands-on workshop, you’ll learn the fundamentals of milling rough lumber and how to prepare solid wood for furniture, construction and other woodworking projects. We’ll introduce you to the jointer, planer, mitre saw and table saw, with an emphasis on using each machine safely and correctly.

You’ll learn the three essential steps of processing rough lumber. First, we’ll use the jointer to create a flat face and edge that are 90 degrees to each other. Next, you’ll use the flattened face as a reference on the planer to bring the board to a consistent thickness. Finally, we’ll use the table saw to rip the board to width and remove the remaining rough edge.

Throughout the workshop, you’ll get hands-on experience with these machines and learn how the different steps work together to transform rough lumber into stock that’s ready to use. These foundational techniques are essential skills for anyone looking to work confidently with solid wood.