Replies

1. 
   MBerger | Dec 08, 2007 03:59pm | #1

   Hi Woody.

   Cross cutting a spindle into small toy wheels on the bandsaw is quite safe and easy. I would start by setting up your miter guage perpendicular to the saw blade. Then you can either hold the spindle up against the miter gauge fence and start slicing, or you can go a step further and make a little sled that holds the spindle in place against the miter guage with stop blocks. Going this extra distance isn't necessary but it might offer that extra bit of support to prevent the spindle from spinning or moving during the crosscut.

   Alternatively, you could put the spindle back on the lathe and use a parting tool to shape the individual wheels, cutting about 2/3 through the thickness of the spindle. Then take it off the lathe and use the bandsaw to cut away the final bit of material to free each wheel.

   Here's an article that shows how to cut multiple drawer knobs from a single spindle on the lathe. My second idea is based on the advice in that article.

   http://www.taunton.com/finewoodworking/SkillsAndTechniques/SkillsAndTechniquesPDF.aspx?id=2940

   Have fun with it, Matt

1. 
   Woody42 | Dec 08, 2007 05:07pm | #2

   Thank you.  I like both solutions. 

2. 
   user-148830 | Dec 21, 2007 05:53pm | #3

   Hi Woody,
   I would only add to Matt's suggestions that you make sure that your table insert, that little round thing that fits into your table and around the band saw blade, has a small rather than large and old slot in it. If you start dropping wheels down into the saw cavity you of course lose the wheel but you could break a blade as well. If the opening is too large in the insert, either make another, or put down a piece of 1/4" plywood or mdf as an auxiliary table to cover it up. Gary

1. 
   Woody42 | Dec 22, 2007 12:56am | #4

   Thanks.  That's what preceeded my question and I started to wonder if it was safe at all.  This forum has been a big help.  .