Table Saw Special Operations (continued)
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Pg. 1-2, Pg 3-4, Pg 5-7

Forming Simple Inlays

Figure 4-20. Some simple inlay work can be done by cutting surface kerfs and then filling the cuts with strips of contrasting wood.

The idea in forming simple inlays is to cut kerfs (Figure 4-20), with a saw blade or dado head, and then fill the grooves with a contrasting wood (Figure 4-21) that is cut to fit. Working in this manner, you'll have a tight, professional looking fit when the inlaid strips cross each other. Warning: Inlays are formed without the upper saw guard in place so work with extreme caution.

Figure 4-21. You can inlay wider strips if you do the kerfing with the dado accessory. Click on image for larger view.

Cut all the kerfs that run in one direction and inlay the strips. Then cut the crossing kerfs. The second set of inlay strips will form perfect joints where they cross the first ones. Always cut the inlay strips so they are a bit thicker than necessary. You can sand them, after installation, so they will be flush with adjacent surfaces.

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