Face planning or surfacing is the most common function of the jointer, yet extreme care must be exercised during this operation. The depth of the cut should correspond to the width of the material:: the wider the material, the less the cut. Typically, a 1/32-inch cut yields optimal results.
For deeper cuts, it's advisable to gradually achieve the desired depth with multiple passes over the cutter head until the full depth has been cut. The work should be advanced through the guard to the cutter head with a smooth slow feed. Make sure both hands are placed on top of the workpiece, with the left hand securing it against the rear table surface and the right hand the right hand guiding it smoothly over the front table with pressure.
