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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/wood-jointer-face-first

When milling a rough board on a jointer, which surface is jointed first?

One face, then an edge against the fence.

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  1. One face first ✔
  2. The end grain
  3. The edge first

Why: The first flat face becomes the reference. Next, you joint an edge with that flat face against the fence so the edge comes out square. This is the first step in thicknessing stock.

Huh, didn't know that: Woodcraft says to orient the board so the knives cut with the slope of the grain to reduce tear-out.

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Why isn't the squirrel hard at work collecting acorns at the oak tree? She called in sick and went to the beech.
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References

Answer: One face first. The first flat face becomes the reference. Next, you joint an edge with that flat face against the fence so the edge comes out square. This is the first step in thicknessing stock.

  1. Woodcraft How Does a Jointer Work www.woodcraft.com/blogs/cabinetry-furniture-making/jointer-fundamentals
    Face-jointing is the first step in thicknessing stock.
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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