May/ June 2004

Feature Articles		Page
CHOOSING AND USING BELT SANDERS by Scott Gibson These aggressive tools are unmatched at rapidly flattening panels and shaping curves		34
Tool test: 3-in. by 21-in. belt sanders		38
A SPIT-SHINE WAX FINISH by Mladen K. Vranjican This polishing technique gives you a glasslike surface that is easy to repair		40
FINE-TUNE YOUR SHOP by Jerry H. Lyons Ingenious carts, tables, and storage solutions improve your work environment		42
SLIDING BEVELS by Steve Latta Prices range from dirt cheap to downright expensive, but does cost reflect value?		46
FOLDOUT PLANS: CHERRY CHEST OF DRAWERS by Michael Pekovich Dovetail joinery decorates this Shaker-inspired case piece		50
SCALING FURNITURE FROM PHOTOS by Miguel Gomez-Ibañez Apply the laws of perspective to create working drawings from photos		59
TOOL TEST: 18-in. BANDSAWS by Roland Johnson These bigger machines excel at cutting thick stock and slicing veneers quickly		64
TEMPLATES GUIDE THE WAY by Doug Peterman Create elegant curves and furniture parts with router templates		72
WORKING WITH MDF by William Duckworth Medium-density fiberboard is the perfect choice for painted cabinetry and veneered surfaces		76
Departments		Page
CONTRIBUTORS		6
LETTERS		8
METHODS OF WORK Sawblade storage box; Tractor-and-hitch system for moving machines		16
RULES OF THUMB Best practices for drilling		24
TOOLS & MATERIALS Pin nailer leaves barely visible holes; A new aftermarket tablesaw splitter		30
CURRENT WORK A gallery of our readers' woodworking		82
A CLOSER LOOK Why wood moves		88
QUESTIONS & ANSWERS Ripping wood safely; How to choose a backsaw; Childproof your shop		94
MASTER CLASS An extraordinary patina finish		100
ADVERTISER INDEX Online index to our advertisers		111
FINISH LINE How to prevent fisheyes		113

Choosing and Using Belt Sanders, A Spit-Shine Wax Finish, Fine-Tune Your Shop, Sliding Bevels, Foldout Plans: Cherry Chest of Drawers, Scaling Furniture from Photos, Tool Test: 18-in. Bandsaws, Templates Guide the Way, Working with MDF