Thought you too would crack up at my "newbie" excitement...

 

 

 

 

My first project was to make this framed window pane to more nicely close the space in my garage window when I have the 12,000 BTU air conditioner mounted in the Summer months. Obviously, it's nothing too fancy (it was my first project with the saw): just ordinary pine with rabbet cut joints [using the Dado blade] -- brad nailed and glued together -- slotted pain groove (sealed with silicone), lightly stained/urethaned and secured with outer foam weather stripping and fasteners to the window (for security)...

 

 

This weekend I'm starting my second [more complicated project] -- a prototype gun display case for my BB guns in the garage (I sound like a red neck now); building this one before I start the larger one for my "antique" blackpowder Kentucky rifle and pistol I plan to display in the house -- with fancier finger/box joints, routed trimmings, glass, brass hinges and locking latches. Of course, now I must buy a router and routing table -- darn the luck -- Lisa's gonna "love" this new hobby! Anyway, I'm fabricating a wooden jig tonight for the table saw to start the finger/box joints -- I'll let you know how it comes out and share the design if you're interested. May even consider dovetails if I get the router/routing-table in time.

 

Other projects planned: Barrister's bookshelf (love those things), china/serving table and then a custom entertainment center. Like I needed another hobby! Never-the-less... may be calling you guys for tips shortly!

 

Gary

 

P.S. -- Dad, you might want to check your table saw manual -- mine clearly stated NOT to use the "wobble" (or single-blade) Dados and not to exceed ½-inch dado cuts. I opted to get a stacked Dado set at Harbor Freight -- on sale for $17.99 -- works great! Can cut any width from 1/8" to 15/16" (with shims as precise as 0.05).