How to Make A Bevel Cut With A Table Saw: A Complete Guide

Learning how to make a bevel cut with a table saw requires merely the following:

• Adjust the blade angle to the desired angle
• Set the fence to the correct distance from the blade.
• Feed the workpiece through the blade while keeping it firmly against the fence.

Sounds simple, right? But it’s also a lot more complicated with the details. We’re going to explore that as we cover the steps needed to make a bevel cut with a table saw.

After all, for a woodworker, bevel cuts are essential for many projects, such as picture frames, cabinets, or decorative boxes. Bevel cuts can add beauty and elegance to your woodworking.

Learn more about bevels here.

The Process On How To Make A Bevel Cut With A Table Saw

Step #1: Preparation

To begin, you need to get everything together. The materials you’ll need are as follow:

• Table saw
• Blade
• Push stick
• Square
• Fence
• Wood Piece
• Saw blade lubricant

Next, check the condition of your table saw and ensure it is in good working order and set up properly. Ensure the blade is sharp and in good condition and the fence is securely set up. Remember to also choose the appropriate blade for bevel cuts as you confirm the rest.

We recommend reviewing our guide on the thickness of a table saw since it covers the topic of choosing the right blade as well.

Lastly, safety should always be your top priority. So wear protective gear such as safety glasses, ear protection, and a dust mask.

Step #2: Set The Angle

Adjust the angle of the blade according to the desired bevel angle. Most table saws will have a bevel gauge that allows you to set the angle.

Step #3: Adjust The Height

You can now adjust or change the blade’s height depending on whether it barely clears the wood you will be cutting. This will help you avoid any unnecessary chipping or splintering.

If you want to learn more about the height of table saw, click here.

Step #4: Position The Wood Perfectly

Put the wood on the table and ensure that it will not move while you make the cut. To do so, you can use clamps or a fence.

Step #5: Make The Bevel Cut

Turn on the saw and slowly lower the blade into the wood, always keeping your hands away from the blade. Use a slow, steady motion to guide the wood through the blade, then make the cut along the line.

Step #6: Check The Cut

Once the cut is complete, check to ensure the bevel angle is correct and that the cut is clean. There should be no splintering or chipping.

Step #7: Adjust If Necessary

If the angle is incorrect or the cut is not clean, adjust the blade angle or height as necessary and try again.

Step #8: Repeat As Needed

If you need to make multiple bevel cuts, repeat the process with each piece of wood. Make sure to adjust the blade angle and height as necessary for each cut.

Step #9: Clean Up

Turn off the saw and clean up any sawdust or debris from the table saw and the surrounding area.

And voila! You’re done.

Once you begin repeating the above process consistently, you’ll definitely be a pro! Still, if you’d like a practical demonstration of making bevel cuts with a table saw, check out this video.

Other Bevel Cuts and The Step-By-Step Cutting Process:

Cross Slope Bevel

A cross slope bevel is an angled cut that runs diagonally across a board’s width. To cut it with a table saw, you need to do the following:

• Adjust the blade angle and height
• Secure the board
• Guide it through the blade slowly and steadily

Angle Bevel

An angle bevel refers to a sloped edge that is angled at a certain degree. To cut it with a table saw, adjust the blade angle and height, and use a guide or fence to ensure a straight cut.

Even beyond what we’ve covered here, check out our step-by-step manuals on “How To Cut 60-Degree Angle Cut On A Table Saw?” or, similarly, one on “45-Degree Angles.”

Chamfer Bevel

A chamfer bevel is a type of beveled edge that features a flat angled surface rather than a rounded one. To cut a chamfer bevel with a table saw, adjust the blade angle to the desired degree and guide the wood through the saw at a slow, steady pace.

Miter Angle

A miter bevel is an angled cut that is a combination of a bevel and miter cut. To make a miter bevel with a table saw, use a miter gauge to set the angle, then adjust the blade angle and height accordingly.

Speaking of miter cuts, learn how to make a miter saw table to help you out.

FAQs

What are some advanced bevel cuts and techniques?

Some advanced bevel cuts and techniques include compound bevel cuts. For this, the blade is angled horizontally and vertically to create a complex beveled edge. This also creates mitered bevel cuts, which combine bevel cuts with miter cuts. This creates angled corners.

Other techniques include using jigs and fixtures to create consistent and precise cuts. On the other hand, specialized blades such as dado blades make wider bevel cuts.

And lastly, advanced techniques require more experience and skill. So remember to prioritize safety and practice proper technique when attempting these cuts.

What common problems arise when cutting bevels, and how do you fix them?

When cutting bevels, common problems include uneven cuts, blade binding, and burn marks. These happen to many people because of blade dullness, improper saw and fence set-up, or even blade misalignment. Here are a few ways through which you can fix these issues:

• To fix uneven cuts, ensure the blade is sharp, and the fence is set up properly. Learn more through a guide on adjusting DeWalt table saw fences.
• If the blade is binding, check the alignment and tightness of the blade and ensure the wood is straight. 
• To prevent burn marks, lubricate the blade and avoid cutting too quickly. Using a slower speed or making multiple passes can help reduce the risk of burn marks.

What safety measures should you follow when making bevel cuts?

Here are some safety measures you should follow when learning how to make a bevel cut with a table saw:

• Wear appropriate safety gear.
• Ensure that the components of the saw are installed correctly and securely.
• Use push sticks or other tools to guide the wood through the blade.
• Always use a fence or guide to ensure the wood stays straight and does not wobble.
• Properly align and tighten the blade before making any cuts.
• Never reach over the blade or make cuts while standing in line with the blade.
• Please turn off the saw and unplug it when changing blades or making any adjustments to the saw.

Closing Thoughts 

Learning how to make a bevel cut with a table saw can be useful for any woodworker. Furthermore, it’s also important to follow proper techniques and safety measures to avoid accidents.

The process involves:

• Setting the blade angle.
• Adjusting the height.
• Positioning the wood.
• Making the cut.
• Checking the results.

All in all, also remember to have fun and learn a few new tricks along the way – just like we hope this article has taught you!

Learn more table saw knowledge with “How much does a table saw weigh?”