How To Resaw Without A Bandsaw [Step By Step]

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With resawing, woodworking opens up a world of possibilities. You can go from logs to lumber, craft unique book-matched panels and even fashion your own veneers – all with just one technique.

 

If you don’t have a bandsaw for that purpose, I am going to tell you about some very effective tools and procedures on how to resaw without a bandsaw for your next project.

 

Not only can you cut any board into two equally-sized pieces, but with this technique, you’ll be able to produce a stunning set of book-matched panels for your next craft project. With the right supplies and an eye for symmetry, these doors or decorated stock will add visual interest wherever they’re used.

 

How To Resaw Without A Bandsaw

 

Resaw Without A Bandsaw

 

Remember that when we talk about resawing, it means slicing the wood along the grains.

 

It is generally a type of rip-cutting. Other than a band saw, you can have the following tools to work with for the job:

 

  • A hand saw

 

  • A frame-saw

 

  • A table saw

 

A hand saw is usually an easily available tool, a frame saw is very easy to work with the tool but costs a bit more than a hand saw, while a table saw is usually present in wood workshops.

 

If you want to work with a table saw, you will have to follow the basic steps:

 

  • Check the width that is to be sliced and also keep in mind the thickness of the cutting disc. Do your calculations.

 

  • Make markings accordingly.

 

  • Now adjust the fence to support your wooden board. Try to hold the board firmly in position using a feather board.

 

  • Now turn on the saw and gently push the board along the blade in grain direction.

 

  • After the first pass, go for the other side and repeat the process.

 

If the height of the blade is not enough, there will be some portion left inside for which you will have to cut by clamping your job in a bench vice manually. After that, you will have to smooth the surface using your desired tools.

 

Manual Approach

 

Manually, you can use a hand saw (rip-cut teeth and fairly aggressive) or a frame saw (I recommend this one).

 

Follow the steps below to get the job done:

 

Perform calculations according to the desired thickness.

 

I would recommend marking two lines 1 mm apart this time so that you can cut between these lines and have lesser confusion and good results in the end.

 

After markings, now clamp the workpiece in a bench vice or side table vice (recommended) firmly in the correct position so that cutting along the grains becomes easier.

 

Now put the handsaw/frame saw on the marking and by a slight push, let the tool settle in the cut.

 

Now you do not have to apply any force; move the blade forward and backward in a cyclic manner and let the saw work itself.

 

Keep on doing it until you reach the bottom end.

 

You might have to turn the workpiece upside down to cut it from the other end as well, according to the available access of the vice.

 

Conclusion – How to Resaw without a Bandsaw

 

There are always various alternative methods to work on a job. Trying these methods provide you a good range of knowledge.

 

Just keep in mind the precautions while working with tools and by following the correct approach as I have mentioned, get your job done efficiently.

 

FAQ’s

 

1. What is the purpose of resawing?

 

Resawing lumber can be a great way to get creative with your woodworking. By running stock along the length of its edge, you will create thinner pieces more suitable for veneers or book-match panels. To successfully resaw boards and achieve desired results, experts recommend selecting top quality blade and fence options that best suit your project needs.

 

2. What bandsaw blade for resawing?

 

Resawing can provide a great way to make rip cuts in wide boards, while giving you the opportunity to take advantage of their full potential. Using fewer teeth per inch (TPI) on your 14-inch band saw blade than what would be used for crosscutting or cutting curves is recommended – try something like 1/2″ width with 2–3 TPI.

 

3. Is Resawn the same as Rough Sawn?

 

Rough Sawn material is specially crafted with a unique process. Referred to as “Resawn” or “Band Sawn”, the timbers are cut on a large band saw which gives them an even and fuzzy finish – no need for pesky, prominent circular mill marks that you might find in older mills.

 

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