Squaring wood without a jointer?

[bcarvings]

Hi,
I have wood that is crooked on all 4 sides. Can I make it look straight using just a planer? The jointer doesn't take any twists.

You can but it takes a bit of dancing; by that I mean it is not as straightforward as using a planer then a jointer.

First run it through the planer several times till you get one side flat. Now, holding that flat side flat against the 90 degree fence, start running the piece through the planer untill the second side is flat. Use the same proceedure on the other two sides and you are pretty well trued up.

The problem with this procedure is SAFETY! It's really hard to properly use a push stick or block while trying to hold the piece against the 90 degree fence. It can be done, but it takes a steady hand, concentration, and patience.

Planers are notoriously hazardous anyway, so be very very careful and use a low setting for each cut. Better to take many thin cuts off the stock, than one large one off your hand!

Al

Plane both sides, then square up the other 2 sides with the planed side on a table saw. Though I don't know the dimensions of your board, you may be able to make 2 passes on each side with the table saw (not too safe) to square up both sides with the planed sides