This Is The MOST IMPORTANT WORD IN CARPENTRY + WOODWORKING!! (Agree/Disagree? 3 REASONS WHY...)

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The most important word in carpentry and woodworking is this: KERF! In this short video, The Honest Carpenter will explain why the word kerf is so important to carpenters and woodworkers.
The word "kerf" dates back nearly 6,000 years to the late-neolithic period, and in all that time the meaning has changed very little. It means:
KERF: the groove or notch made by the cutting action of a saw.
(It sometimes also refers to the width of a saw blade at the teeth.)
The word kerf is so important because many beginners fail to realize that a saw blade has a certain width, and that it will PERMANENTLY REMOVE this width from anything you cut. Therefore, it must be factored into measurements. (The kerf should not be TAKEN OUT OF material you want to leave.)
Kerf is also extremely important to saw safety. When the kerf closes around a blade, it can slow that blade down, bogging down the motor. This is called "binding," and it can cause the blade or saw to leap towards the operator! For this reason, the kerf should always be kept stable to prevent saw blade binding.
Be sure to visit us at THE HONEST CARPENTER website:
www.thehonestcarpenter.com
Thank you for watching!

[@TheHonestCarpenter]

I truly think KERF is the most important word in carpentry and woodworking...BUT I WANT TO KNOW WHAT YOU THINK. Do you AGREE or DISAGREE with me? I'm willing to hear any and all opinions. Also, did you learn something you didn't know from this video? Let me know what it was. Your feedback helps me constantly improve the channel. Thanks for watching!!

[@debrajabs9523]

I have not used a circular saw for many years. I bought a Ryobi. This video helped me so much because I am co.fortable with a table saw but no longer have one. I just need to do some small maintenance projects like replacing outdoor trim work that is rotting on the house before winter. Also build so obstacles for my goats to play on. Maybe a dog house and a small shade structure for the back yard. I have played around with the saw a bit but there are three marks on the metal frame in front of the blade. I am not sure which is for what but now with this video I will be able to cut accurately. Thank you so much. My husband is a disable vet that actually owned a construction company for decades. Now he has Parkinson's too. If I ask him how to do things he gets flustered because he cannot remember. If I ask the neighbors to help he feels worthless and sometimes jealous. I can't afford to pay to have all these repairs done. I am fine with machines as long as I know what not to do. Next I need to learn how to safely use a chain saw. All the classes at Home Depot are suspended due to COVID so your channel is a blessing for me. My grandfather was an excellent carpenter but I was too young and he would not let me touch his tools only watch. I miss him terribly. Thanks for what you do I know there is a lot that goes into making these videos.

[@kayallen2641]

38 years of Residential and Commercial building and that is a new one.Not to be funny or rude .You do know what it really means.What it is used as on FB Twitter and all social media.So no kerf stands for Keep it real F.I dont like it and dont use it but have seen it used in that form rather then blade width.Funny story in the early 80s If I cut it short .After the cut I would take my pencil and scribe the edge of board.So they would look at it and think theres his line on the board really i cut it off.accidentally

[@kayallen2641]

That is a good ??? What is the most word used in home building.Your wkrds beside Merf is not 1 but I believe you directed it to homeowners.What I think you did is ask the wrong question.No disrespect.38 years Illget back to you.Im leaning on respect all opinions.or be on time dont get drunk tonight.Drain th e tank.Oil th e guns.Who rolled up this cord this way.Those are words you hear in the morning.You mentioned perlin do you know

[@Maltloaflegrande]

I was taught "always saw to the waste side of the line and mark each cut out one at a time" so I've always done that. To my mind, the most important word in Carpentry is SAFETY. Take away that one and sooner or later, you'll be forced to give carpentry up assuming you're alive enough to be in the position of deciding in the first place. As for Kerf, I've always understood it as the splaying of saw teeth away from the main blade width thus creating a wider cut than the thickness of the blade hence the saw doesn't jam when you're cutting. In ye olden dayes, we used to use a set to achieve this when we sharpened our saws but nowadays, we accept whatever the manufacturer gives us and even in the case of Spear and Jackson (still the best saws in the UK in my opinion), the disparity is simply not enough and the saw tends to jam. C'est la vie.

[@lenfinley5817]

Love watching your videos. Always feel like I walk away having learned something.

[@bsdetector4325]

I've known all these things since I've been a carpenter for 40 years but I could have never presented them as well as you did good job

[@fahmywaleed]

Agree, I am diy'er and knew that stuff but it is very well presented and is a good refresher

[@piyushtalegaonkar2940]

Yea ik damn youtubers making our life , where is the struggle these days!! 😀😀

[@kevinstuart5105]

Do you mean that once you had been a carpenter for 40 years you knew all those things? or, That you've known all these things for 40 years since you'd been a carpenter?

[@bsdetector4325]

@@kevinstuart5105 I learned All of this in the 1980s Back then I worked in a cabinet shop

[@_LifeOfReilly]

This reminds me of a story. Back in the 90s I was working for a small Design/Build firm. I was the “detail guy” and spent most of my time in the cabinet shop, but we were short-handed. So, I got pulled from the shop to install beveled cedar siding on an addition. They paired me with a new hire, with little time in the trade. What time he did have had been spent on a Framing Crew for a Tract Home Builder. I was up on Pump Jacks, taking measurements and calling down numbers for him to cut. Literally every piece he handed up to was wrong, either too long or too short. If it was too long, I would mark the cut with my mechanical pencil and hand it back. It would inevitably come back too short. After a while, I climbed down and asked him to show me how he was making his cuts. I gave him a random measurement (with a 1/16” fraction) and asked him to cut it for me. He hooked his tape, pulled the measurement and reached into his pouch for a (I shit you not) chisel-tip marker. The tick-mark he made was literally 1/4” wide, which then got wider as the ink soaked into the cedar. He had no chance of success. I gave him one of my pencils, along with a quick tutorial on what a Kerf is, and suddenly his precision was on-point to within 1/16”, and his confidence grew like 10-fold. Proper instruction/mentorship is KEY to accuracy, safety and the extinction of Wood Butchers (no offense to actual Butchers, you guys are amazing). This video is an excellent example of that.

[@heidiual]

I’m impressed with your presentation and delivery. You’re a skilled tradesperson and great teacher.

[@TheHonestCarpenter]

Thank you, heidiual!! I put as much as I can into it. I appreciate you watching 🙂

[@driscoleyva8865]

As a life long hobbyist and new home owner I feel like the best testament to a carpenter's skill assidefrom their work, is their hands (specifically fingers) and face ; no clearly easily observed scars means they take care. Results= safety and less wasted time and materials.

[@dougimmel]

As I have mentioned before, you are providing a remarkably valuable Service in the creation of a curriculum for young Wood shop students. I can't thank you enough. The presentations include history, etymology, philosophy, commonsense, economics, and business acumen. Plus this teacher is Learning oodles from you.

[@alcamerc9923]

I’ve said this in other similar videos. The best advice I ever got in woodworking came from my father decades ago: “Know where your fingers are at all time.” Almost retired from wood projects now, I still have all my fingers. Safety guys. Follow the rules.

[@dwightpowell6673]

I'm glad that your father took the time to show you things...my father wouldn't teach me anything...on his deathbed dying from multiple myeloma he says to me"I know I wasn't a good parent"..it was too late then.

[@manubishe]

@@dwightpowell6673 society gives an average solution to that by group-parenting. You've had a village father among the people.

[@SiyavoshM]

@@dwightpowell6673 If you have a picture of your father when he was a boy, hold up, look at it, and imagine what he must have gone through with his father, so he turned out the way he did. If what he understood at a very late stage in his life, you understand now, you can; not-only break the cycle but also understand your father. Sometimes each generation gets better to the extent of overcompensating the past generations. Then we raise narcissistic sons. And the cycle begins again.

[@rinzler9775]

Woodworking is like flying airplanes - if you are in a rush, dont have the equipment, or the weather is bad, and that voice tells you don't do it, then learn to listen.

[@jamescooley7849]

Excellent explanation of one fundamental woodworking problem. I had a friend who wanted me to help him cut a hole for a skylight right next to a obstruction on his roof deck. When the blade bound up the saw kicked back across his thigh. After I took him to the hospital for 7 stitches, he climbs back on the roof, determined to finish the task. Puts the blade back in the same place, pulls the trigger and now he has two parallel scars to remind him not to do that again.

[@davidthomson802]

Not a carpenter but a linguist so I did know "kerf." Also my dad was "Ker" so I tended to notice. Excellent presentation, thank-you. Seems like a kerf is a sort of shadow. In philosophical terms, wood is ontologically "being" and kerf is "non-being." In a sense the kerf is the death of the material. The carpenter walks the line between life and death. The kerf is that line.

[@zianawind2970]

What the f... Man that really went into the depths of existentialism real fast, I didn’t expect to end up pondering such depths while I prepare my next work sessions!

[@davidthomson802]

​@@zianawind2970 yes, to the extent that a woodworker is a sculptor rather than a joiner, she sees what she saw, or rather sees what she saws, which is really a way of seeing what is destined to not be seen, as it is collapsing into sawdust and disappearing in the Wind. In this sense the woodworker is as much destroyer as creator. If memory serves, existentialism is based on the word existence, which means to stand out. To make something outstanding, the woodworker must de-existentialize portions of her stock.

[@zianawind2970]

@@davidthomson802 you should have a blog or website for all this wood work poetry and contemplation it’s quite good, I know of many that would enjoy reading it, me for one. Let me know if you have one.

[@davidthomson802]

​@@zianawind2970 Ziana Wind, I went quiet because you got me thinking. I'm under strict orders here at headquarters to stop writing books till I've spent more time marketing them. The orders mostly from myself directed at myself. The last thing I should be doing is writing about wood. And yet despite these orders, I've written twenty-thousand words on wood in the last two months, sort of pretending I hadn't. They just sort of squeezed themselves in between all these other writing projects. For example my son seems to be taking up carpentry, and I couldn't stop writing to him about that. And then carpenters showed up next door to build stairs, and took a long time doing it, and I got to thinking about how I rebuilt my friend Ian's stairs three times three different ways, just to have a chance to theorize stairs. And I wrote an essay for no earthly reason on the relationship between a 20-inch axe and interstellar space travel, how we would never reach the stars until we understood the meaning and wisdom of a mid-size axe. A blog about wood and contemplation might stop me from writing so much about wood and contemplation. For example, since your kind words, I thought: what if I had a blog that had posted at the top this stern warning to myself: every Tuesday till it's a book. Maybe. Soon.

[@zianawind2970]

@@davidthomson802 you know.. do the blog or such and let people read it. The interstellar jig about an axe sounds super cool. And u never know, maybe you suck at romance or x y z u trying to hammer yourself down to, and yet the natural flow of spirit that comes through you about wood etc is already inspiring others you know? Sometimes we are our worst critic and just too stubborn.. for you to know. Anyway you totally have a flow that’s rare and I’m super picky about what I care to read or write about... just saying

[@lesgoins5124]

Excellent! At 73 I’ve been teaching myself woodworking for the last two years and today I had the “Duh!” moment… :-) because of your wonderful video… Sure I’ve read about kerf and marking line stuff and somehow I just continue to blissfully ignore until your video brought it all home… Excellent job! enjoying your videos excellent job! Les

[@redharrier8273]

What an awesome video! You make the basics come alive. Of course the blade has a thickness, and of course it removes wood otherwise why would there be sawdust? And of course, I never put all of these simple things together on my own! I am a beginner teaching myself woodworking DIY and I find your videos very informative. Thank you for sharing your knowledge - much gratitude for being my virtual teacher.

[@shanardsmith147]

Ive always thought about this! I didn’t know it was a real thing

[@irakopilow9223]

Though not a professional, I have been working with wood for about 50 years. You were spot on and I commend you on how clearly and simply you explained things. Great job!

[@prospermakosa4408]

Thank you. You took me back to 1990 when I was in Form 1 term 1 wod work lesson. These are the fundamental even though we used handsaws . Our teacher would make us chant thus. Measure twice n cut once So not cut where you cannot see. Keep the saw inside the kerf. Keep the cut on the waste wood side Keep the marking gauge stock on the face side / face edge. With love from South Africa

[@TheHonestCarpenter]

Amazing, Prosper! Once you really learn kerf, you never forget. Happy to hear from South Africa! 😄

[@mariannepurdie9800]

Hi Ethan, I'm loving your videos.You explain things clearly in a brilliant, step-by-step manner that leaves me feeling that I've got a good grasp of the basics. I'm a 66-year-old retiree who has taken it into her head to take up some basic carpentry and I knew nothing. The problem with people like me is that we don't know what we don't know - hence my dilemma. I'm trying to work out a starting point but I don't know what that is. I'm prepared to go out an have real world lessons but I'd also love to have some basic knowledge before I get there. I don't want my first lessons to be double-dutch, I want to learn and enjoy. With all those confessions in mind, can you make a playlist of your videos for the novice - a step-by-step guide to getting started. I've watched quite a few of your videos now and I'm starting to work out which videos would have helped me most when I got started. Thank you so much for your wonderful work.

[@galacticas]

Yes, not for the 1st time, I have learnt something new and useful from your channnel. Your content is highly valuable for enthusaistic amatuer woodworkers new to the game like myself. The simple and concise presentation is also just perfect. Thanks for helping me appear just a bit less clueless.

[@franktstets8037]

Yes I agree with most of your description of "kerf", however I think "Safety" is Most important.. then Kerf. Thanks for your great well planned videos. 👍

[@TheHonestCarpenter]

I guess I can't disagree with that one, Frank :) Thanks for watching!

[@jpjohnbo]

When I see woodworking KZbinrs not using proper safety measures (eye/hearing protection, shoes not flip flops, push sticks, etc.) I give them a thumbs down and select "Don't recommend channel". New workers like me, don't need to see "experienced" woodworkers disregarding proper safety procedures.

[@bwojak3226]

Absolutely

[@kibbyken5975]

@@jpjohnbo, SOME very talented wood workers don't know about OSHA safety standards and what ARE "proper" safety standards. Or for that matter ANY safety standards. Watch anything from S.E. Asia. These folks make amazing things; in flip flops, barefoot, etc. They're from a totally different society where it's closer to what WE were in the 1800's. How many Amish barn builders use harnesses? Don't get me wrong. I fully understand your viewpoint. But explain that to the Russian that just posted about welding and NOT using gloves. Be safe!

[@nathanrocks2562]

@@kibbyken5975 I think he means when popular and consistent users that consider themselves "professionals" do this. I agree with both of your points. And I do love watching that brazilian guy dig out underground mansions with swimming pools and gardens 😄

[@robertbeirne9813]

“Take the line” or “leave the line” is usually all the instruction you get on the job. Your explanation of taking half the kerf, if you cut down the center of the line really gave me the “mind’s eye” visual of what’s gong on. Going to use this when I’m instructing.

[@matthewhutt544]

I've taught so many kids(young adults) hardwood installation and this is probably the hardest lesson I have to deal with. I completely agree, this video really will help in future lessons.

[@user-ld4oo4kb2t]

Thank you for your videos. My father was a carpenter and he died in 2022. I need to build my child a sandbox and fix some baseboards in my house. Thank you for teaching me these skills since my dad isn’t here to help me.

[@russhenry8112]

Never,never,never,ever take for granted the power of a saw blade. Your words about destroying the wood I front of the blade forever and never to be seen again,should send shivers down your spine….RESPECT IT 🖖🏻

[@shaun_rambaran]

Excellent video! Thank you for this. I'm a newbie considering getting my first circular saw and greedily eating up all of your content about saws and saw safety. This one may be my favourite so far.

[@jasonc3522]

If you haven't pulled the trigger on buying a saw go for a worm drive.

[@WanderingWiley]

I am glad you included number3 being possibly the most important, after 35 years of construction still have all my body parts

[@nikwebster4120]

Great video! one thing I see though is you can't always trust the Kerf measurement that comes with the tool. On cheaper tools for example the blade can oscillate slightly creating a wider Kerf. I always do a trail cut with a tool to measure it before measuring out.

[@ke5943]

I’ll say it again. Knowledge is one thing, but knowing how to pass on that knowledge is another entirely. You really have a gift for communication.

[@colinmattoon3762]

Ethan, I started woodworking a few months ago. I found your channel and wanted to thank you. Your videos are SO HELPFUL… and well done. You teach clearly, it’s simple enough for newbys to understand, and your production quality is way better than most. Thanks again!

[@danielgioe1538]

I was a remodeled for 40 yrs. and still have all my fingers. I agree with all that you said. You can’t be too safe. Like the kerf when part of your body is gone, in a fraction of a second, it is gone forever. You cannot get it back. So when trying to go fast or cut corners, ask yourself which part of my body would I be happy without? Great job highlighting the value of the kerf and safety.

[@TheHonestCarpenter]

Thank you, Daniel! Well said 👍

[@redgar6467]

OMG! This is way my stuff is never fitting right. Thank you.

[@kathleensedita7233]

I love that you put everything into context with history and physics. Very impressed and will certainly be a regular viewer of your channel!

[@jamesmurphy7828]

I didn't know the word until but I was beginning to learn the concept. I'm working on making chairs as my first project. Learnt the hard way a couple of times that you have to take in to account the width of the blade when you take your measurements. and another tip that I've found out, don't forget to always measure from the same side instead of switching between them as may be convenient at the time.

[@tracybrislin]

Well you did it again! Has to be the best video Ive seen to date . Kerf is the key. Adhering to your suggestions will save me and my sons and daughters from puncture wounds and lost fingers. What a great topic, thank you!

[@TomAFitch]

Wow, your delivery on all videos is just outstanding. So easy to listen to. If I would have had access to all of your content back in school, I wouldn’t have had to take four years of wood working class. Awesome.

[@bearimo2867]

This is great - as someone about to embark on hopefully a summer of projects - I feel like this video has just saved me time, energy and frustration - I'll bear this in mind for any of the projects I undertake! Thanks man!

[@codysnell]

As a multi generational carpenter, I take a lot of this for granted, but absolutely a spot-on topic. Well done!

[@clarejordan1067]

This was the absolute BEST information I have ever heard to date (as I move on to begin learning to use my table saw).Thank-you.

[@CrashboatAl]

Thank you for the lesson Ethan. You Sir explained that like a Schoolmaster with a yard stick in his hand. I'm always learning from you; including Kerf. I never heard of it, but now I know. Thank you.

[@wilelee]

I’m impressed with the kerf and your complete definitions of how many different things cover the defining of this word, Thank you for giving all the visuals on this word. Helps a great deal!

[@melyssacollins4553]

I’m just so glad I found you. Every time I make a cut my saw binds- I’ve tried tape to keep the back from blowing out too…just by instinct but not with great luck. You’ve provided so many answers to questions I wouldn’t know how to ask I’ve run out of lightbulbs 💡 😉 Thanks for making me better.

[@Charles.Spillman]

You've explained alot I knew about most of this since I was 3. My grandpa thought me how to use every tool he had. I used to play with saws and in sawdust iv always been intrested in woodworking I work with it a lot now

[@mehmetilbaysozu]

Great channel, great information and instructions. Not a single useless word! Videos are not too short or long, just as they need to be, always focused on the captioned subject as clearly as it can be. I learn a lot as an amateur. Thanks a lot.

[@cgilleybsw]

Kerf is also known as "No matter how many times I cut this board, it doesn't get longer." or "Measure twice, cut once." Now, I fall under the DYI, but I've done a little finish carpentry, and when I see people doing trim work and expecting to come back with caulk, I start seeing red. And it's almost always down to not understanding kerf. Another excellent video.

[@Gunkaleh]

You're absolutely right. Took me a few ruined projects to understand this. Well done.

[@franklinkarrass5830]

Thank you for all the information on kerf. Although I was aware of kerf, I was not knowledgeable enough.😃👍

[@cdnpicker]

i want to thank you for sharing your knowledge and experience. I have virtually no experience with carpentry, the lockdowns have forced me to undertake some home repairs that I previously would have contracted out. Yout videos have been invaluable. They're concise, well filmed and have helped me to correct mistakes that I had had been making. Keep 'em coming.

[@findlayhunter4934]

You are so awesome. This channel is like a master class for DIY. I don’t do a lot…..yet, but the use sacrificial piece of wood when using the miter saw makes so much sense and I would never have thought to do so!

[@angelarush8605]

Your videos are so helpful to this newbie. I am fearful because I know I don’t know. You help me know, so I can be safe, thus decreasing my fears!

[@user-dd5ux9gv7f]

Love you man, you have a very good way to explain the most difficult notions

[@TD-er3gi]

I've watched a few of your video's and they are very well done and not drawn out just to the point. Great job!! subscribed!

[@dwayne7356]

The last time a piece of wood kicked back at me, I had a plywood blade on the table saw cutting some 1/4" luan plywood. I never fully understood why. I wish I had an instant replay camera. But I have learned over the years to stand to the side while cutting thin strips. The thought that my other blades are carbide tip never occurred to me. The wider kerf of the carbide tip blades probably have prevent numerous other kick backs on my table and circular saws then I have realized. Usually, I can feel the binding or smell burning wood and I stop and re-exam my setup and solve the problem before destroying the piece of wood, usually a feather board moved or is improperly set. All thanks to kerfs and carbide tips have been preventing accidents.

[@c.fernandez8664]

Amazingly informative. Beginning the planning and purchasing of a bathroom remodel that I have decided to do myself and this was an outstanding reminder for me.

[@Losfirstduty]

Yes - very educational. Getting into novice carpenter work for my home projects, I needed this video. So simple yet I know I have overlooked this skill. Thank you for professional tips!

[@TheRealBusyB]

Def appreciate your video. I am new to woodworking and love it but have a lot to learn. Wasn't understanding why my cuts were never spot on. This explained why. Thank you.

[@cmonster67]

Well, that blows most of my summer plans for doing maintenance around the house. Before I can even start I need to watch ALL of your videos to learn how to correctly do the things I thought I already knew how to do.

[@vikkirountoit497]

Learning to use my circular saw - this is a great video and makes it much clearer for me to cut on the waste side to maintain accuracy, thanks. (Also did not know a good way to prevent blow out using my crosscut saw - your example makes it really obvious!)

[@Treznor5150]

Brand new to wood working and this was super helpful! It seems so obvious but I’d never really given it much thought until now. Keep up the awesome work!

[@jammintube57]

This is a great subject reinforcing awareness to the concept of kerf. I was lucky to have a dad that was willing to teach and to let me experience hands-on. I actually remember when I first grasped the awareness of the width of the blade and cutting outside or sometimes inside the line. As discussed in the presentation, this is one of the concepts that changed my skill level and took my work to another level. And by including safety in the subject matter, it brings a whole new light. Regardless if we are skilled or rookies, it is good to see the demo and hear the words and refresh the concept. Thanks for a good presentation. It is always good to see a skilled craftsman share knowledge and explain how things work. Thanks! Greg

[@AudraGibson]

Thanks for the tip on backing blocks for the miter saw. I’ve run into that blow out issue even with a new blade from time to time cutting 2x4s but never knew what was causing it or how to fix it.

[@dennisdrexler5020]

Great video. Great explanation of kerf. I believe the words "kerf" and "safety" go together as one. I always remember Norm Abrams saying " there is no more important rule then to wear safety glasses".

[@hughrobinson4147]

I am right handed and 9 out of 10 times I measure from the lift, so I always know to cut on the right of the line. Thanks for the video.

[@TheHonestCarpenter]

That's a good system, Hugh. I don't get in trouble until I pull a mark, then get distracted and wander off or move the board! Still get myself in trouble after all these years

[@illestofdemall13]

left

[@Ikantspell4]

Consistent marking is key to consistently cutting. There's a billion systems the best ones are ones you do every time and completely understand or the people you are working with completely understand. 28 minus, take the line, etc. What's an x mean? If the person cutting won't know exactly where the cut was supposed to be you're 100 times better off remarking and aligning the cut. The frustration I find is usually when past me was a poor Communicator with now me.

[@guebaradelivery769]

Great video, this helped more than ever. I was aware of of the loss of materials but couldn't account for it. I'm so glad I practiced on some scrap materials last night and not the actual material for the project. I'm going to give it another run this evening, hoping it all comes together. Again, great video on explaining the importance of understanding kerf.

[@garywilliams1759]

A really, simple and clear explanation of kerf; a word I was not familiar with, but I have experienced the downsides of getting it wrong! Thank you, once again, for sharing your experience, skills and philosophy

[@johnraeder4635]

I didn't learn anything specific from this video, but the presentation and perspective gives me a new tool in my teaching bag. Thanks

[@philipsatterthwaite4361]

Thank you! Appreciate it as a new DYI that was never taught these skills.

[@garryholmberg6502]

Just found your channel and subscribed. Your straight forward concise explanations make things so clear. I have watched numerous videos on measuring and my cuts were still off. But your drawing the 1/8 kerf with parallel lines and then positioning the blade to cut just half the kerf space made it click. Or at least I hope it did, next project will tell the story:)!

[@jpjp9111]

I just got a battery powered circular saw to make stuff. I'm glad you taught me this in this video.

[@matthewking6860]

Yes I agree with you. Im just getting into wood working, and I find that you have an excellent method of exposition and youve made an excellent pathway for me to understand things that I have not seen in a slew of other videos Ive seen on KZbin. Ive never had anyone to show me any of this. Im teaching myself by watching these videos, and yours are by far the most informative ive come across.. Thank you

[@eldergeektromeo9868]

Ethan: Thanks for the detailed discussion on "Kerf". You are a master explainer, and we all thank you for that!

[@TheHonestCarpenter]

Thank you, Romeo! 😄

[@cme135]

My middle school wood shop teacher (back in the late 80s) described this very subject but this is the first time I heard of the word. I’ve cut wood using the same principle of riding the outside of my mark, cuz it made sense that the blade blasted some wood away permanently. I remember those in my class who’s projects would be just that tiny bit off from square, or had a weird finish, simply because they didn’t work in the kerf of the cut. Great word and great video explaining it!

[@DarkTouch]

the other issue with kerf safety is rotation or misalignment, i would include it with binding in your example. if the fence or work piece is not aligned with the blade, the back of the blade will catch in the kerf and throw the work piece/kickback etc. Causation examples include cutting un-jointed wood, a misaligned fence, free hand feeding, no riving knife, bad technique pushing the wood to cause rotation of the stock, etc. There are also 3 or more causes of binding: wood movement as internal stresses are changed as the blade cuts, trying to rip un-jointed boards and misalignment of the rip fence causing the back of the blade to bind. as a reminder, a table saw should be checked for miterslot, blade and fence parallelism frequently... like weekly in a busy shop or even daily in a production shop.

[@overcomer4226]

This is why I love your channel I learn new stuff especially new linguistics. And you give examples of ancient architecture how cool is that.

[@yeeaahBUDDY]

New linguistics like "saul". Circular saul, miter saul, saulzall. All the sauls. 😂

[@dynasty1910]

You are a champion. I only discovered you 2 weeks ago but all your videos are informative and interesting. Keep up the good work. Thanks!

[@TheHonestCarpenter]

Thank you, dynasty!

[@ironwood1621]

On my very first cut I knew (by common sense) that you always want the blade on the waste side of the cut. But I didn’t know it was called Kerf. Lol. Another informative video. I really enjoy your videos.

[@Hvn1957]

When I saw the title, I came up with some ideas as I was queueing the video. I settled on square 😊, but kerf is certainly a valid contender. I’m a woodworker by trade, and I’ve done a lot of layout work as a foreman. I always struck two lines on the board to make the cut clear, for the person making the project. Whenever I trained a rookie, I started with “speed and feed”. Those two things are governed by kerf, in wood, and affect everything from safety to quality. Great video!

[@beachwalker2245]

thank you for this awesome presentation-I saw this video months ago and continue to think about the kerf every time I cut or measure anything!!

[@TheHonestCarpenter]

Awesome, Beachwalker! 😄

[@tmcdca]

Excellent presentation! Clear, focused, and informative, with special emphasis on safety. I shudder to think how many of my project materials have ended in the scrap heap because of my poor saw and kerf awareness? My thanks to you.

[@raymondborror9361]

I consider videos like this to be informal but valuable continuing education. Thank you so much.

[@Bobs2cents]

I agree with you 100%! As an amateur DIYer, I love fixing and building things on my own and the satisfaction of doing a job RIGHT. I follow this channel to stay safe and do the job correctly. It is incredibly satisfying to see a project through that looks like a master craftsman was standing behind me. Thanks for all the tips!

[@tedtolentino4955]

I'm just a DIYer but I have never thought of the kerf as you have explained it here; it's a brilliant explanation. Thanks.

[@B4ldyman1]

Outstanding. I’d like to think I’m heading towards intermediate - but your explanation is thought-provoking. Thank you.

[@JLKOGER]

I really like all your videos and find most of them to be helpful and very informative. Glad I found your channel. On this topic, SAFETY FIRST is the most important. But KERF is also extremely important.

[@chiselcheswick5673]

Amazing stuff... I have encountered all these things but its good to hear a proper explanation. Thank you.

[@valdistas8341]

You are a champion. You know how to explain things for everyone to have a much wider understanding.

[@bh2347]

Great video. I'm a commercial constructi carpenter and you did a great job. I can tell you poured a lot into the video. You definitely gained my sub! As for me, I think mine is more of the attitude and mindset than a word: SAFETY A job, especially carpentry (at least for me speaking in my setting of commercial construction carpentry), can be very dangerous in a multitude of ways. You can anyways get another job, but you will never get back your health or your body if you sacrifice your safety for your job. Be safe and live another day!

[@bidadash]

i love your channel thank you for explaining kerf (and everything) so clearly!

[@kennethspengler9934]

I don’t know if it’s the most important, but understanding it is very important. Love your channel.

[@phiphophum7727]

Fantastic video man - greetings from Cape Town!! Enjoying your instruction and concise explanations! Never heard this word before but yes, the principles around it I probably do agree with you.

[@raymonddersch4195]

As someone who is getting ready to get into woodworking I found this video presentation excellent! I'll be doing a lot of projects with my 14yo daughter and I've been trying to recount all the safety lessons I've learned by watching videos such as this. I think I'll just let you do that from now on and have her watch your videos. Very well done, and thank you!

[@rumsfield78]

I was today years old when I learned about kerf. No wonder my cuts are off! Thanks for the tips!

[@tomjeffries58]

Great job. Love your channel. I've been cutting with power tools for 55 years and I liked all you had to say. Power saws cut very fast with lasting results. Always be careful. Practice, practice, practice safely.

[@fadinasralla8194]

Yeah my father in law offered me 2 handsaws recently and lets say I learned about Kerf safety just in time. I had some pinching from time to time I was lucky nothing bad happened. I begin searching about saw safety and found this chanel. Its amazing such great knowledge and delivery.

[@TommyBowerscoasters]

Agree! I’ve been trying to define this gap as a beginner. You explained it perfectly !

[@probuilder961]

Great video. My Dad used to sharpen and set the teeth on all his saw blades by hand at night in the cellar(non-carbide teeth, of course). Amazing to think about in this age of throw away carbide tooth saw blades. (which I used to send out to be sharpened).

[@gsf67]

Great presentation, I have been working with timber for a number of years, but nowadays, I am just so mindful, how easy it is for a saw blade to bind. I have been shoddy on occasions with my use, I have seen others as well, this video is a wake up call. Cheers

[@GrantOakes]

Very informative. Most of your points I was already familiar with but the riving knife was new, I thought it was there only to attached the blade guard, not even thinking it was to maintain the opening of the kerf to prevent binding of the blade. Great job!

[@chuckf4333]

I've always struggled with understanding kerf. Not anymore. Your teaching skills are exceptional and for someone like me, a few notches above novice, this video will be watched a few more times before I make my next cuts on an outdoor chair I plan on making. I'm pretty sure I won't be making adjustment cuts to make each piece the same length!

[@QuantumMind88]

Even though I don't do a lot of woodworking (yet), I always knew that I was missing something when it came to cutting wood properly. Problem is that a LOT of people that I see using saws teaching other people don't mention kerf or even know what it is themselves. I'm glad I know it now and yes, knowing this does increase your confidence AT LEAST 10 FOLD! Knowing that you can do things correctly and look masterful compared to others. Thank you for this great representation and kudos to you!

[@mikemactavish1665]

Good video . . . One of the many things my Dad taught me was when cutting a board to "Leave the Line"

[@ketanpatel6671]

Hi There, I am a beginner woodworker and do little over the weekend or when time allow. Just like to say your videos are great and very informative. Especially for beginners like myself. THANK YOU LOTS !!!

[@heidbumbee1689]

Informative as always. It's important to know which side of the pencil line to cut to. I work on the basis of a 3mm kerf for my circular / table saws, I'm UK based. My band saws cut at about half that. I'm a big fan of your work. Clear honest explanations of what's what. I also follow another woodworker / educator and I like his description that almost every woodworking tool is a chisel! A chisel is a chisel. A plane is a wide cutting chisel. A saw, circular or straight hand saw is just a series of small chisels in line. I see this idea as "truer" than some tools "smashing" through wood. Router? A really fast chisel. Keep it coming!

[@Sharpshooter99100]

Your videos are amazing, i've learnt so much from all of them. Keep it up, very clearly explained and lots of useful info. Long time subbed!

[@edwardmanfredi121]

Great Video. No matter your level of woodworking, listening to this is always a good reinforcement of the principles of safety with saw blades. Thank you !

[@TheHonestCarpenter]

Thank you Edward! I had been wanting to make this video for a long time. I hope it helps people start off on the right foot, or even just stay on track with their carpentry and woodworking efforts.

[@matthewhutt544]

10 tears of hardwood installation and I already knew all these concepts. I just never heard the term KERF. Thanks

[@22illingworth]

Your channel is my new "Binge" fantastic information..... keep up the great work. Subscribed!

[@868_4_Life]

Man this was an EXCELLENT presentation. I DID learn alot. I was about to subscribe but I already did. Don't even know when I did that. So you will have to settle for a thumbs up. Thanks again.

[@seanhiscock]

I knew how to line up for it on cuts but never realized how technical it was. I was always taught cut on the line. Now I know. Thanks

[@captainjack8823]

For accuracy ALWAYS leave the line on the piece that you measured for. This develops a consistent reliable cutting method. As Ian said denote the piece you're wanting with a small X. I mark all of my measurements with a "crow's foot". Which is a vee ( V ). Then I draw a mark diagonally across one leg the V. I draw it thru the left side leg of the V to keep the line for a left side keep of my board and visa versa. Being right handed I almost always leave the line on the left side when using a circular (aka Skill saw ). Hope this helps, this practice served me very well all of my life. The other thing that has is to start your day with the phrase "Safety FIRST" and keep it that way all day! +35 years as a good carpenter.