Garry Knox Bennett, a furniture maker best known for his use of mixed media, demonstrates in this video how to cut aluminum on the bandsaw. Bennett says that most standard woodworking power tools can be used to cut and shape aluminum, including a router and tablesaw. But he warns that preparations are necessary to stay safe and get good results. Learn a few tips and tricks for working with aluminum as Bennett saws through a 1-in. thick scrap of aluminum with a 1/4-in., four-tooth wood bandsaw blade.

Note: Even though Bennett has worked safely in his shop for more than 30 years, the editors of Fine Woodworking don’t recommend operating the bandsaw with the guide system raised to the height demonstrated in this video. It should be no more than 2-in. above the workpiece.

 

ABOUT THIS SERIES

Garry Knox Bennett is an internationally acclaimed furniture maker whose mixed-media work is included in public and private collections around the world, including the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art and the Smithsonian American Art Museum. Between 1958 and 1962, Bennett studied painting and sculpture at the California College of Arts and Crafts in Oakland, Calif. After college, he worked as a sculpture, painter, and jewelry maker, and launched a metal working business that he continues to operate.In the 1970s, Bennett switched his sights to furniture making, setting off on a 30-year career creating one-of-a-kind studio furniture.Read More…		Cut Aluminum on the Bandsaw
		Quick Tip: Texturing Aluminum
IN THE GALLERY Browse photos from the portfolio of Garry Knox Bennett in our online Gallery.