Originally Posted by
Kavik79
Read this a couple times before realizing you were talking about using a table saw to cut to thickness, not width.
What sort of push block setup do you have that allows you to hold something as narrow as 3/8" and rip it in half? While still having control of the two 1/8" few after passing the through the blade?
I don't mean to be negative, but table saws are one of the most dangerous shop tools. Trying to cut thin stock is tricky business. Trying to work with small bits of wood is quite difficult.
Putting these two things together, with an inexperienced operator....that's not a good mix.
I feel like this is one of those cases where if you need to ask about something basic, like how to calculate kerf width, you probably shouldn't be even considering making this type of a cut yet.
Again, not to be a jerk, but because your fingers are more important than any set of scales.
You'd be better off using a band saw for this, if you have access to one. Or make a flattening jig with a router. Or a hand plane with some sort of a jig to set the thickness. Or similar with just a sanding block.
With pieces this small, even with sandpaper it doesn't take long to change their size considerably
Stabilizing is generally only needed on fragile woods. Cherry and cocobolo won't need it (and really, cocobolo doesn't take it well anyway, because of how oily it is)
Keep on making, but prioritize your health and safety when working with those tools that can change your life in a blink of an eye