Tool Talk

Festool Cordless Table Saw with batteries and Stand - I needed a compact saw that only takes up a small footprint.  I really like many features of this saw, such as the ability to quickly and precisely set the blade height and angle using the digital display.  The dust collection integrates well with the dust collection systems, but I would rate the amount of dust collected as an 8/10 instead of a 10/10.  This is a lot better than the 30 year old table saw that I was using, i.e. that old table saw was pretty much a fog machine in spraying dust into the air.   At present day, there are many options for table saws and I am unsure if I would have made the same choice if I had fewer space constraints.       

Festool Domino Tenon Assortment Set​ -  This is a set containing many different sizes of the wooden (beech) domino.  So far, I have found a use for all the sizes.  I purchased this systainer of dominos and then just refill the ones I use most over time.

Festool Domino Connector Set​ -  This is a set of knock down fasteners that are really handy to use and work with the Festool Domino DF 500.  We really like using these for items that we have to ship to reduce the cost of shipping.  

Festool Domino DF 500 - This is a great tool for making loose mortise and tenon joinery in your projects.  It has been a game changer, 

especially when we need to build many of the same item.  We recommend you give it a try.   

Festool Miter Saw Kapex KS 120 REB - This is an excellent miter saw with integrated dust collection in mind.  Yes, you still need one of their

dust extractors, but it is very accurate and reduces the time you spend cleaning as opposed to working.  I do not currently own the mobile stand, but others tell me they like theirs.  

Festool 5" Sander Random Orbital Sander ETS EC 125/3 EQ-Plus  - This is my go to sander for most projects.  In combination with a dust extractor, it almost makes sanding an enjoyable task.  It certainly removes a lot of dust from the environment.   

Glue - I typically use Titebond 3 wood glue because it allows longer assembly times, water clean up, and it is reportedly food safe (cutting boards).  It is also good for both indoor and outdoor projects.  I like the bottle size in the link because it also doubles as a dispenser. 

Linseed Oil - I have tried to replace all toxic chemical finishes with food non-toxic food safe finishes.  I have had good luck with the Tried and True linseed oil finishes.  Some of my favorites are one with beeswax for kitchen utensils and cutting boards, a golden oak version, walnut, and cherry. 

Mechanical Pencils - I have used the same mechanical pencils for decades and really like them.  They are made by Pentel and have 0.7mm size graphite.   

Round Over & Chamfer Hand Planes - I have now used several round over and chamfer planes.  These are extremely useful as you can be done softening an edge on a project with a hand plane by the time you get out the router.   The Jensen is one inexpensive option that I recommend you consider; it comes in a hideous bright orange color, but has multiple radii and can also chamfer.  The Saker is a similar model that similar features, but comes in a more tolerable color for the workshop.  If cost is not an issue, then I would recommend you check out Woodpeckers lineup of chamfer and round over tools. 

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