24.03.2016 ... Avoid tablesaw tearout with a zero-clearance insert. This insert, which replaces your saw's factory-supplied throat plate, provides up-close ......
Embarking on a DIY project often means investing in the right tools to ensure precision and safety. A table saw is a versatile power tool that every woodworker should have, but to maximize its potential, consider creating a DIY zero clearance table saw insert. This simple yet powerful addition can significantly improve your cuts' accuracy and safety.
Before we dive into the DIY process, let's understand what zero clearance table saw inserts are and why they're essential. A zero clearance insert plate fills the gap between the blade and the table, preventing small offcuts from falling through and causing kickback. This not only enhances safety but also ensures cleaner, more accurate cuts.
Before you start, gather the following materials:

Now that you have your materials ready, follow these steps to create your zero clearance table saw insert:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Measure the dimensions of your table saw's insert area, including the blade opening. |
| 2 | Cut a piece of plywood or MDF to match these dimensions using your table saw. |
| 3 | Using a pencil and ruler, mark out the blade opening on the plywood. Ensure it's centered and matches the blade's diameter. |
| 4 | Secure the plywood to your table saw using clamps, ensuring the marked blade opening aligns with the saw's blade. |
| 5 | Slowly and carefully cut along the marked lines using your table saw. Ensure you're wearing safety glasses during this step. |
| 6 | Test your newly created zero clearance table saw insert by placing it in the insert area and ensuring it fits snugly around the blade. |
To prolong the life of your DIY zero clearance table saw insert, follow these tips:
Creating a DIY zero clearance table saw insert is a simple yet effective way to enhance your table saw's performance and safety. By following this comprehensive guide, you'll be well on your way to mastering precision cuts and protecting yourself from potential accidents. Happy woodworking!

<strong>Make a Zero-clearance Insert for Your Tablesaw -- WOOD magazine</strong><p>24.03.2016 ... Avoid tablesaw tearout with a zero-clearance insert. This insert, which replaces your saw's factory-supplied throat plate, provides up-close ...</p>
<strong>DIY Zero Clearance Table Saw Insert - Instructables</strong><p>DIY Zero Clearance Table Saw Insert: Making thin cuts on your table saw requires a zero clearance insert so that the stock doesn't get pulled into the table ...</p>
<strong>Making zero clearance table saw inserts - YouTube</strong><p>13.05.2012 ... Showing the steps for making a zero clearance table saw insert http://woodgears.ca/delta_saw/insert.html.</p>
<strong>The Easiest Zero Clearance Insert on Earth for Table Saws (Quick Tip)</strong><p>20.03.2024 ... This trick is as easy as it gets. Lower your table saw blade all the way down below the table. Then take a strip of blue tape and lay it over the gap of your ...</p>
<strong>Can't believe it took me this long (3 years) to make a zero clearance ...</strong><p>24.10.2023 ... r/DIY - Make your own zero clearance insert for your miter saw and save ... r/DIY - step by step to a perfect ZERO clearance table saw insert.</p>
<strong>How to make a zero clearance table saw insert - Paoson Blog</strong><p>11.02.2022 ... I'll show you how I made the new inserts. First I'll measure the gap for the insert and cut two pieces of MDF to size. I'll use these as a jig to cut the new ...</p>
<strong>How To Make A Zero Clearance Insert For A Table Saw - IBUILDIT.CA</strong><p>Prior to making the first one, I drilled a small hole at the back of the opening for a pin. The pin stops the insert from lifting at the back.</p>
<strong>How to make a zero clearance insert for a Delta table saw? - Facebook</strong><p>06.10.2024 ... You dont need the clips. Make the new zero clear to the same dimensions and shape using the old one as the template.</p>
<strong>How To Make a Zero-Clearance Insert Plate - Woodsmith</strong><p>19.10.2021 ... The last detail to add is a wide kerf in the bottom face. This provides clearance for some saw blades that won't retract enough for an uncut ...</p>
<strong>Making a DIY Zero-Clearance Table Saw Insert Plate - Facebook</strong><p>09.01.2026 ... Making a DIY Zero-Clearance Table Saw Insert Plate #Tools #TableSaw #ToolModifications #DoItYourself.</p>
<strong>I Built a Zero Clearance Insert for My Table Saw - YouTube</strong><p>14.03.2026 ... Share your videos with friends, family, and the world.</p>
<strong>How To Make a Zero-Clearance Insert For Your Tablesaw</strong><p>16.04.2025 ... Learn how to make zero clearance inserts for your tablesaw. WOOD magazine's Jim Heavey explains the importance and materials needed.</p>
<strong>Making a zero clearance table saw insert - Woodgears.ca</strong><p>There are many articles out there on how to make your own zero clearance table saw insert. Almost invariably, they recommend attaching your old insert to a ...</p>
<strong>Zero-clearance solution for thin throat plates - WOOD Magazine</strong><p>29.06.2017 ... The steel throat plate on my tablesaw is thin—so thin that wooden zero-clearance inserts sag and affect the accuracy of my cuts ...</p>
<strong>How To Make A Zero Clearance Insert | Dewalt Table Saw - YouTube</strong><p>21.03.2023 ... I will show you step by step how I had this zero clearnace insert plate for the Dewalt table saw DWE7485.</p>
<strong>Best material for DIY table saw zero clearance insert - LumberJocks</strong><p>21.04.2016 ... 1/2" mdf with Formica on both sides. They are durable and long lasting. Threaded inserts with set screws make great levelers. Wood Automotive ...</p>
<strong>How to make a zero clearance insert for a bench saw? - Facebook</strong><p>20.06.2024 ... Well, get an Allen key and remove the insert. Measure its thickness with a caliper. Put a piece of Masonite, plywood or similar of that ...</p>
<strong>How to Make a Zero Clearance Insert (For Table Saw) - Instructables</strong><p>How to Make a Zero Clearance Insert (For Table Saw) · Step 1: Cut to Width · Step 2: Layout Details · Step 3: Drill Finger Hole · Step 4: Cut Out Details · Step ...</p>
<strong>How To Make a Zero-Clearance Insert for Your Table Saw (Part 1)</strong><p>20.11.2017 ... Zero-clearance inserts for the table saw can help you work safer with better results at the table saw, but you don't have to spend a lot of ...</p>
<strong>How to Make Zero Clearance Throat Plate Inserts for Table Saws</strong><p>20.07.2017 ... Learn how to make zero clearance throat plate inserts for your table saw. A zero clearance insert or throat plate is one of the best ...</p>