News
Build a Beautiful Walnut End Table with SawStop
There’s something special about turning a beautiful piece of hardwood into furniture that can be enjoyed for years. If you’re looking for your next woodworking project, this stunning Walnut End Table by MEK Woodworks is a great example of what you can create with the right tools, quality materials, and a little patience.
Designed as a practical yet eye-catching piece of furniture, this project showcases the natural beauty of walnut while giving woodworkers an opportunity to practice several important furniture-making techniques.
A Simple Design with Plenty of Character
Walnut is a favourite among woodworkers for good reason. Its rich colour, distinctive grain, and ability to take a beautiful finish make it an excellent choice for furniture projects.
The MEK Woodworks end table keeps the design clean and refined, allowing the walnut itself to be the star of the piece. The result is a piece that would look right at home beside a sofa, chair, or bed.
A Great Project for Developing Your Skills
One of the best things about projects like this is that they combine straightforward construction with opportunities to improve your woodworking skills.
The build involves carefully preparing and assembling the individual components, drilling clearance holes, securing the pieces, and completing the final finishing work. These are fundamental techniques that can be applied to countless other woodworking projects.
And, of course, accurate cuts are essential.
A quality table saw and properly selected saw blade can make a significant difference when preparing components for a furniture project. Clean, accurate cuts help ensure that parts fit together properly and make the assembly process much easier.
Let the Walnut Shine
Once the construction is complete, the finishing process brings the project to life.
For this particular project, MEK Woodworks uses Waterlox on the walnut to deepen its colour and help protect it from fading, followed by shellac.
The finishing stage is where you can also make the project your own. Depending on the look and level of protection you want, there are many different finishes that can be used on walnut.
Take your time during this stage. Proper surface preparation and allowing each coat to dry completely can make a noticeable difference in the final appearance.
Build It on Your SawStop
Projects like this are a great reminder that a table saw is more than just a machine for making straight cuts. With the right setup, accessories, blades, and techniques, it can become one of the most versatile tools in a woodworking shop.
And when you're spending hours in the shop turning expensive hardwood into furniture, having equipment designed with safety in mind matters.
SawStop's table saws are designed to help woodworkers work confidently while focusing on what matters most: creating something great.
Ready for Your Next Project?
Whether you're an experienced furniture maker or looking for a project to develop your woodworking skills, the Walnut End Table by MEK Woodworks is worth adding to your project list.
Download the project plan from SawStop, gather your walnut, choose the right blade, and get started.
And if you need the saw blades, abrasives, woodworking tools, or accessories to bring your next project to life, Great Western Saw is here to help.
Shop Great Western Saw for the tools and supplies you need for your next woodworking project.
Find your free plans here: https://www.sawstop.com/walnut-end-table-by-mek-woodworks/
How to Choose the Right Abrasives for Woodworking and Metalworking Projects
The right abrasive can save you time, reduce waste, and deliver a professional finish. But with so many options—sandpaper, sanding discs, grinding wheels, cutting blades—choosing the right one can feel overwhelming.
Here’s a quick guide to help you pick the right abrasive for your woodworking or metalworking project.
Abrasives for Woodworking
When working with wood, abrasives are used to shape and smooth surfaces.
-
Coarse Grit (40–80): Removes rough edges and material quickly.
-
Medium Grit (100–150): Ideal for sanding between coats.
-
Fine Grit (180–240): Smooth finish before staining or painting.
-
Extra Fine (320+): Polishing and detail work.
Tip: Aluminum oxide abrasives last longer on hardwoods.
Abrasives for Metalworking
Metal projects demand strong, durable abrasives.
-
Grinding Wheels: Best for weld removal and heavy stock removal.
-
Cutting Discs: Thin and precise for cutting pipes, sheet metal, and bars.
-
Flap Discs: Great for blending welds and finishing edges.
Tip: Zirconia alumina abrasives are excellent for stainless steel.
Safety and Performance Tips
-
Always wear safety glasses and gloves.
-
Match abrasive speed rating to your tool.
-
Store in a cool, dry place to prevent damage.
Where to Buy in Saskatoon
At Great Western Saw, we carry a full range of abrasives—sanding discs, grinding wheels, cutting tools, and more. Whether you’re a contractor, shop owner, or DIYer, we’ve got the right product for your project.
Quick FAQs
Q: What grit is best for finishing wood?
A: Fine to extra-fine (180–320+).
Q: Can I use the same abrasive for wood and metal?
A: It’s best to use abrasives made for the specific material.
Conclusion
Choosing the right abrasive ensures better results and saves money in the long run. For high-quality abrasives in Saskatoon, shop with Great Western Saw today.
Say Hello to Milescraft: Clever Tools Built for Real Work
Meet Milescraft, our newest vendor focused on smart, problem-solving tools for real workshops. From pocket hole jigs to precision drill guides, their gear is all about working smarter—not harder.
Easy Wood Tools: We Want You
With their demonstrator program reach expanding, they are looking for more demonstrators to join them as more stores and events are wanting live demos. And that includes you!
SOME QUESTIONS YOU MAY HAVE:
- WHAT IS THE EASY WOOD TOOLS DEMONSTRATOR PROGRAM? This is a program where engaged turners that have experience in turning with carbide tools go and showcase not only our products, but also their skills at local woodturning clubs, events, trade shows, stores, and more.
- WHO ARE WE LOOKING FOR? We are looking for people who have a love for turning and want to share their knowledge with others.
- WHAT WOULD YOU BE DOING? You will be showcasing your woodturning talents in front of different sized groups while showing your knowledge of not only woodturning, but also knowledge of Easy Wood Tools products.
- HOW WOULD THIS BENEFIT YOU? This program gives you the opportunity to network within the woodturning/woodworking community, showcase your skills, engage new woodturners that want to get started or improve, enhance your social media presence, and get paid to do what you love and have FUN!
Want to become an Easy Wood Tools Demonstrator and get paid to do what you love and enjoy? Click HERE for more information/application. Please send completed application to customerservice@easywoodtools.com.
PrimeWeld TIG 225 Back in Stock!
Hey welding enthusiasts! 🎉
We have some fantastic news that’s sure to spark joy in your workshop. After much anticipation, the PrimeWeld TIG 225 is back in stock, and we’ve got plenty to go around!
For those who might not be familiar, the PrimeWeld TIG 225 is a true gem in the welding world. This versatile AC/DC TIG welder with pulse functionality is perfect for both hobbyists and professionals alike. Whether you’re working on vehicle bodies, metal furniture, or even intricate sculptures, this machine has got you covered.
Why is everyone raving about the PrimeWeld TIG 225? Well, it’s not just about the sleek design and robust build. This welder offers precise control over your welding projects, ensuring beautiful, clean welds every time. Plus, with features like the AC Balance for removing oxidation and impurities, and the ability to weld up to 1/2-inch thick metal, it’s a powerhouse in a compact package.
But wait, there’s more! The PrimeWeld TIG 225 also comes with a CK17 Flex Torch and a 3-year warranty, giving you peace of mind and flexibility in your projects. And did we mention it’s perfect for both aluminum and stainless steel? Talk about versatility!
So, what are you waiting for? Don’t miss out on this opportunity to elevate your welding game. Head over to our store and pick up your PrimeWeld TIG 225 today. Trust us, your future projects will thank you!