If you are thinking about building a table for your miter saw and want to know how to build miter saw table then do not worry! There are ways (yes several ways!) you can build a miter saw table. All you need are few essential tools and you can make a table using simple lumber.
Quick Overview
Why build a miter saw table?
Of course, one could simply go to a shop and buy a table for the miter saw. Isn’t that right? Then why would anyone want to put an effort and make one themselves?
Well, it is pretty simple for me really. I am mad for DIY works! I like to make things on my own and then use them. To be honest, this is my way of enjoyment. And I am sure that there are many DIY workers who would agree with me on this point too.
In addition, making one could prove to serve you well than buying one. Since you would know very well what suits well for you and your saw, you can make the perfect table. But, you might not find the perfect table at a shop. Also, you might bring one home and then find that it is not so comfortable. But, if you wish to make one, you can take proper measurements and build the perfect miter saw table.
Moreover, if you know how to build a miter saw table then you can save up some money. I am sure that your wife would appreciate that lol!
Additionally, the job is not that difficult at all to be honest. You just need to know the right technique and method.
Will it go to waste?
I lot of people hesitate about making a miter saw table. They think that it is not gonna serve them well. And the table won’t be so useful after all.
But, this is not the case in reality. If you are hesitating about building one then I can assure you that miter saw table can be just as useful as a table of the table saw. See the 8 simple steps to make a table saw fence: how to make table saw fence.
The table actually contributes in getting better outcomes. Moreover, you can find more comfort using a table rather than not using one. You can easily place the workpiece down on the top of the flat surface of the table. In addition, the miter cuts are easier to execute for you. This is a big advantage itself.
Things you will need
Furthermore, you can add more optional jigs to your table which will also be useful for you. After all that, there is really no way anyone can deny the usefulness of knowing how to build miter saw table.
You need to have some things which you will use to build your miter saw table. Here is a list.
- Table saw
- Tape measure
- Drill with bits
- Plywood
- Miter saw (obviously)
- Square (framing square or combination square)
- Clamps
- Circular saw or panel saw
- Make sure you have safety gear on. That includes safety glasses, ear protection, etc.
While some of these are an absolute must, others are just optional. For example, if you don’t have a table saw then you can simply use a hand saw.
How to build miter saw table
As I mentioned earlier, building a miter saw table is easy if you know the right steps and technique. So, without any delay, here is how to build a miter saw table.
Measure the saw
The first task to making sure that the table suits your saw is to get the accurate measurement of your miter saw. Simply use a tape measure to find the right height and depth of the saw. Also, measure the width so that the work is smoother.
The depth should be made such that the base of the saw fits firmly on the table. Make the width a bit longer than the actual width of the saw. This will allow for the saw to get in and out with ease.
Also, you need to determine the accurate height. The height is the measurement from a scrap of plywood or base on a level surface to the surface of the saw.
Mark & cut plywood
Make accurate marks on the plywood you are going to cut for the table. The marks will allow you to process the work you need to do. Moreover, the cut will be a lot better and accurate.
Now, use the table saw to rip cut the plywood. You will make the top and the bottom of the table through making wide rip cuts. One side (bottom or top) should be just a half inch or so wider than the other. Moreover, make one side just a little thinner than the other.
The next job is to make a top side where you will fit your miter saw. You need to make this cut right. The cut should be in accordance with the measurement of the saw. Make sure that the cut section is the same width as your miter saw. You don’t want to assemble the table and then find that the saw does not fit. Use a circular saw or panel saw for this task. Also, the back piece is cut in a similar fashion.
Make the dividers
Now, you need to make the dividers which will add support to your table. Rip the 1*6 into 6 dividers. Make sure that they are to the height of your saw. Then take out your tape measure once again and measure the exact same width as the top of the table.
No need to hurry when cutting the dividers. In fact, there is no need to cut all six at once. Rather measure off and cut each one individually.
Assemble
Before you begin assembling the pieces together, check and see to it that the height is perfect for each pieces. You should not nail down anything before confirming that each has the right height.
You can start with the dividers and position them. Also, you can start nailing or screwing the bottom piece first and then move on to the dividers. Make sure you nail or screw down all the pieces together. You should not leave any critical area unscrewed.
After that, you are ready to place your miter saw to the vacant middle area of the table. The miter saw should fit well if you took the right measurement and cut the right size.
Now, make way to keep the miter saw on. Drill holes for the saw so that it remains still when you are using it. And that is it!
That is how to build miter saw table. It is simple and easy to make without any complexity. You just need to concentrate a little and take the accurate measurement. In addition, the pieces should be of the correct height. And you will then have a miter saw table of your own.
Add more
You can add drawers to the front of the table. This is a good way to keep important things related to the miter saw close by. Moreover, adding an extra bench to keep things and cutting material is not a bad option either. You can also put down food if you are taking breaks during the work (I do that all the time).
This is how to build miter saw table and also innovate to benefit more. This is just building the table. You still need to stay safe while working with the miter saw. Read the miter saw safety and learn how to stay safer.
See also miter saw with laser guide, how to change miter saw blade.
