Table Saw Push Block

Safely handle workpieces when using your table saw.

Saw Push Block

Making cuts with your table is easier and safer with this simple tool, which allows you to apply pressure to your workpiece while keeping your hands away from the blade. The push block is designed to be asymmetrical, so that it will always be positioned correctly on the table saw fence. We recommend cutting several side pieces, which can be easily replaced as needed.

We've included guidelines for building a push block with interchangeable sides-a set for making narrow cuts, and another set for making wide cuts.

General Instructions

Cut and label the parts as needed, using the Cut List as a guide and adjusting for fit.

  1. Build the sides.
    • Measure the height of your table saw fence to determine the height of the (01) 1/4-inch sides and the (02) 3/4-inch sides. The height of the sides should equal the height of the fence plus 11/16 inch, allowing the side to remain 1/16-inch above the surface of the saw.
    • For each side, measure 3 inches in from one end, and scribe a 5/8-inch-long line perpendicular to the long edge of the piece. Starting at the first mark, scribe a second line that's 5/8 inch in from, and parallel to, that long edge.
    • Cut the 5/8- x 9-inch waste from each side piece.
    • Sand the leading inside edges of the sides.
  2. Build and attach the top.
    • Measure the width of your table saw fence to determine the width of the (03) top. Add 1/32 inch to this measurement (see Figure 3).
    • Use screws to attach the sides to the top so that they are facing in opposite directions (see Figure 3) to make the push block nondirectional.
    • Attach the (01) 1/4-inch sides with washer-head screws, or attach the (02) 3/4-inch sides with countersunk 1 1/4-inch screws.
  3. Build the handles.
    • Using a router with a 3/8-inch roundover bit, round over both edges of the 3/4-inch side of a 1 x 6. Rip the piece to measure 1 inch wide.
    • Scribe the (04) handles to length, and attach them to the (03) top only, using 1 1/4-inch screws.
  4. Apply a finish.
    • If desired, apply a finish to the outside of the push block.
    • Apply paste wax to the inside edges of the sides and top of the push block, as well as to your table saw fence, to reduce friction.
Push_Block_Image1
Push_Block_Image2
Push_Block_Image3
Step-by-Step
Cut List

Push_Block_Illustration

Part Material Size (in inches) Quantity
1/4-inch sides plywood 1/4 x 12 x 3 9/16** 2
3/4-inch sides 1 x 6 3/4 x 12 x 3 9/16** 2
top 1 x 6 3/4 x 2 1/16**x12 1
handles 1 x 6 3/4 x 1 x 3 9/16** 1

Finished Dimensions

Height: 4 9/16 inches
Depth: 3 9/16 inches
Width: 12 inches

**Dimension determined by measurements of your table saw fence.

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Project Details
Tools
  • Table saw
  • Miter saw
  • Jigsaw (or band saw)
  • Router with 3/8-inch roundover bit
  • Power sander and various grits of sandpaper
  • Drill/Driver with #10 countersink bit
  • Tape measure
  • Pencil
Lumber *
  • 1 (4-foot-long) 1 x 6, poplar
  • 1 (24- x 24-inch) sheet of 1/4-inch birch plywood
Hardware and Supplies
  • 1 box (1 1/4-inch) screws
  • 1 box 1 1/4 Simpson washer-head screws
  • Paste wax

*Availability varies by market.

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