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Setting Up Shop
javeryh:
I am in the process of setting up a wood shop in my garage and I would like some input/feedback on the "best" way to go about it.
1. Do I need a drill press to drill out the holes for the buttons and joysticks on my control panel or will a plunge router or regular drill do the trick? - I'd like my cuts to be accurate (who wouldn't?) and perpendicular to the plywood. Is there a guide or attachment I could add to my drill to make sure the cut is perpendicular?
2. I am thinking about getting a table saw but I don't want to spend an arm and a leg. Does anyone have any affordable recommendations? (I guess around $300 or less)
3. Same question as #2 but I'm looking for a jigsaw or some other way to do rounded cuts.
4. OK, last one for now and it's more like a how-to question - Would routing slots on the inside of the cabinet to accept the things like the back pieces and the cabinet shelf (notched at the ends) hold with some wood glue and clamps or do I have to use screws? I was thinking about a 1/4" deep slot in 3/4" thick birch plywood.
Thanks!
FractalWalk:
Jig saws are cheap and an absolute must!!
If you are going to set up an honest to god wood shop, then a drill press is pretty handy. However it isn't absolutely necessary for making a cab. Depending upon your CP design some of the holes may not even be able to be drilled by a press without a very deep throat. You can get guides to make straight holes or get a standard drill with levels built - in. But again, that probably isn't necessary for making a standard CP.
I would definitely get a router. I went the cheap route ($40-ish) but if you are making a real wood shop, you will want to invest in a good router.
Regarding a table saw, they have limited use for many cab designs and I believe most people here just use a circular saw. However, for a decent shop a table saw is indispensible. I bought mine for about $70 and I love it. You can get a prety nice one for home projects for <$300.
Regarding joins, screws and glue is always better than just glue. But depending upon your design and the load, you might get away with just glue, but it's hard to say without more info.
skinnyfong:
A drill press isn't really necessary. The wood isn't very thick and you can be off ALOT and everything will still look ok once the buttons/joysticks are in the holes.
The Ryobi table saw at Home Depot for $99 is a good deal. A bunch of people on here have used that same saw with good results. You can also pick up a Ryobi jigsaw for around $40.
Mameotron:
I agree with everyone on 1,2, & 3.
4. I would go with a 3/8" deep slot in your 3/4" plywood for the shelf. Personally I like using Gorilla glue & nails. I only use screws if I see the need to take it apart somewhere down the road.
Xiaou2:
Radial Drills rule ^_^
They roll, rotate, and can adjust from 0 to 33" (back/forth). Most presses can only go 9 inches deep into material - as the stand gets in the way. (so if you needed holes 10"+ into material - youd be out of luck without a radial press)
Ive got a floor standing unit - but Ive seen half size ones for much less money on ebay. Mine was from Harbor freight tools.
If you cant afford - then grab a 30$ 'drill guide' device.