Expert: maura macaluso - 4/4/2008

Question
How do I get the hexagon to come out the same on all four sides of my table pedestal. I am cutting them all at a 30degree angle on my table saw, but they do not come out the same on all four sides.

Answer
Hi Bill, either your math is off or the shape you are trying to make is off.  A hexagon is constructed by making 6 equilateral triangles with each angle 60 degrees. 60x6=360  Glue and clamp 2 pieces together, allow to dry. glue a another piece onto each side, when that is dry, glue and clamp the last two pieces in place and you will have a completed hexagonal tabletop.  Picture a 6 slice pizza.

If you are having trouble duplicating cuts on your table saw it could be that your blade is off, your measuring instruments are off or there is movement of the guides between or during cuts.  First using a 90 degree square check that your blade is true vertical 90 degrees.  Next set your miter guide to 60 degrees,cut a practice piece, check the angle of cut with a protractor.  If it is not exact, recalibrate your guide.  Make sure everything is tight and try duplicating the cut a few times to  make sure there is no variation between pieces.  Thanks and good luck with your project