Jointer Size Doesn't Matter! Flatten Large Boards on a Smaller Jointer

Jointer Size Doesn't Matter! I have a ton of HEAVY hickory to flatten that is larger then my jointer, today I will show you a two step trick to Flatten Large Boards on a Smaller Jointer.
I purchased an 8" jointer a while back and knew that it would not be large enough to handle all the different widths of wood that I would throw at the machine. But I believe your money will be better spent on a machine that you will often use 100% of the capacity and have a few tricks up your sleeve to still allow you to flatten larger slabs. Overhanging the board on the jointer will allow you to create a flat reference surface very easily. Then you can use your planer with a DIY jig on it to use that flat reference side to flatten the opposite side of your boards and you are off an running! Save tons of money on a smaller jointer but still have the capacity!

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[williampike]

Explained well, not too long, pleasant to watch. Thanks for not including garbage that others do such as obnoxiously loud jingle music, etc.

[kasbakgaming]

I've used this trick before. I prefer to use a laminated particleboard for the spacer for two reasons. One: It's not subject to warping due to humidity changes, and it's machine cut, so you're guaranteed a flat reference surface. Two: The lamination gives it a low friction surface to make the board glide easier. I also have a laminated board at full width and length that I use during normal operation to serve as an extension table for the planer, so I don't even have to adjust my height when I go to plane the full width of the board.

[grumblycurmudgeon]

I've wondered for years why nobody else does this. I always assumed it was me doing something galactically-stupid, though (maybe due to how dangerous the exposed blades are... if you're inattentive or clumsy?) so I've only told a few people about it (both of whom chastised my recklessness). Kudos for having the stones to go public about it man! You're not alone! I've been surreptitiously working along the same exact process for years!

For anyone wondering: yes, it works fine on a 6" jointer too, just bolt it down to the work cart and make damn sure she's gotta lotta weight to her.

I solved it by making a single stand from 3/4" ply to hold jointer AND the planer (the planer added 100lbs straightaway. Plenty, but since I was twitchy about it, I made the bottom support plate hollow, then caulked it and filled it with sand. Add casters BEFORE you start. Mine prolly weighed 400lbs, total.

Finally: outfeed and infeed. You REALLY want the support. I have a little removable shelf that runs in front of mine too, to support the front half of that board. Just make a mental note to always have either it or the guard in place at all times. The concern is if the stock overbalanced and tips forward, you don't want to lose your balance or instinctively flail... and set your hand down to catch yourself (wince).

Awesome video bro!

[arthooper]

Dude this is a piece of information that I needed so badly! I have huge slabs that I need to work. And I have the exact same size equipment as you. So I will definitely be using this technique.
But be careful working with that Joiner. I lost the end of my left little finger earlier this year to mine. And I am incredibly safe with my equipment handling. Processing heavy wood and getting tired can be a dangerous combination on that machine.
Take care and continue the great work, Art

[eworth]

That works great as long as you can flatten that partial first surface of the board in ONE PASS on your jointer. If it requires more than one pass to be flattened, you will have to remove the rabbeting ledge to make a second or third pass. The unplaned part of the board overhanging the infeed table also hangs below the level of the rabbeting ledge thus preventing a second pass. If you don't have a rabbeting ledge, you can use as many passes as you want to flatten that first surface of the board. Most of the lumber I use is rough hewn and takes more than one pass to flatten. If you're milling a lot of lumber, removing the rabbeting ledge makes sense - for one board, not so much. Thanks for the post. It's a good technique, especially if your jointer doesn't have a rabbeting ledge.

[mkbcoolman]

I just used this technique this week for a 12" board. I have a 6" jointer and 13" planer. The pieces were only about 4' long, but it works like a charm. Just be patient and take your time making really shallow passes. This is a lifesaver for a small hobby shop like mine.

[timbertime]

I'm going to try this! It looks significantly more efficient than using a sled with hot glue and shims to stabilize the board for flattening the first side.

[G.I.JeffsWorkbench]

Great tip Tyler. Thanks for sharing. The wisdom you shared made me a new subscriber. I won’t repeat the other comments about safety, but please take them seriously. I’m sure they were meant seriously and out of concern for you. Now if only I could remember to practice what I (& others?) preach.

[richhagenchicago]

Nice trick, I have an 8 inch jointer, and a very nice, but only 12 inch powermatic planer. I will put that trick in my toolbox for those 8 to 12" wide slabs. Thumbs up!

[sticksoutdoors]

I only have a 6" bench top jointer and it made things pretty tricky because the cherry boards I'm using have some crowning and twisting after drying. I had to get out a portable jointer and take the portion that overhung down in order to make additional passes to get it to ride the board on the planer without doing funky stuff. It's doing its job but adds some extra steps. Great video!

[RonMarshallrone]

This is awesome! I'm gonna try it tomorrow...it sure beats the hell out of hot gluing to a board with shims. thank you!

[mattneff]

This is fantastic!!! Looks like I'm making a jig for my planer today... Thanks!!

[Keionspost]

I've got other ways but this is by far the best way to get the job done. Good job

[HebronGrandpa]

I have a 6" jointer so can see there might be a problem. Thanks for the tip.

[randymarshall]

Great video! I've thought about doing that for a couple of years but was reluctant till I witnessed you doing just that. I have the same 8" jointer and a 1033X planer. Got some wide cherry lumber and didn't have a clue how I was going to process it. Now i know. Thanks

[AlexanderGibbonsAudio]

I feel dumb for not realising this, but in awe that it can be done.

Great video!

[pemtax]

Well explained and demonstrated ... Thanks and Cheers!!

[michaeldenney]

Great tip and well demonstrated without any extra jabber. Gotta say though that when you reach over the end of the board with your finger tips right over the mouth of the cutter I had to pause and go get a stiff drink. Be careful pal!

[johnwurst]

Thanks for showing us your method. I will try it next time!

[matthewwright]

This works! But make sure that your board isnt more than twice as wide as your jointer, the center of gravity in the planer needs to be over the board. For these size tools 14inch would be the max.