Reuse large tree branches and stumps by cutting them into smaller pieces.

Don't let old tree stumps and branches go to waste. You can reuse quality wood by milling it into workable sizes to build table tops and more. Hauling heavy large pieces of wood to a mill isn't always possible, but John Heisz of I Build It set out to build his own backyard mill to cut his maple branches down to size. It certainly looks like he's succeeded. Jbt90 Portable Edge Bander

Cut Your Own Wood Slabs With a DIY Band Saw Mill

In a six-part series on his YouTube channel I Build It, John outlines his step-by-step process for building this large band saw. He just needed something "quick and dirty" that could be temporarily set up to mill some large maple cuttings from his yard, and then disassembled and stored for later use.

The band saw is built from basic stock including plywood and 2x4s. He uses a two-horsepower table saw motor for power, and places the wood on a dolly that he manually pushes to feed the saw. In addition to his video series he chronicles the action in this forum and includes sketches and tips.

By making use of all of this high-quality wood, he will save a ton of money over buying stock from the store—plus take satisfaction in knowing exactly where and how the wood was produced.

Timothy is a lifelong DIY enthusiast who is fixated on smart home tech, beautiful tools, and wrenching on his FJ62 Land Cruiser. He’s the DIY editor at Popular Mechanics and also the founder of the home improvement site, Charles & Hudson, the Webby-nominated family site, Built by Kids, and Tool Crave. When not working, you’ll find him on his board or bike enjoying the LA weather with his family and friends. Follow him on Instagram and Twitter.

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