20+ Ways to Make Your Machines Even Better
In the strive for perfection, there’s always room for improvement. We think our machines are pretty perfect but add in some carefully selected accessories and you can make them even greater.
Planer Thicknessers
Planer thicknesser accessories
To keep the machine working at its optimum, it should be kept it in peak condition. The cast iron tables need to remain smooth and rust free by using maintenance products such as the Axminster Tool and Machine Wax.
Finish on the wood slightly diminishing? Get your blades back to their former glory by using a diamond hone. If the blades are past the point of no return and you need to replace them, be sure to set them at the right height with a planer blade setting jig.
Axminster Workshop AW2260S Planer Thicknesser Spiral Block - 230V
Axminster Professional AP310SPT Planer Thicknesser Spiral Block
Axminster Professional SD410SPT Planer Thicknesser 415VA planer thicknesser will often have to moved around depending on the required functionality, the size of the timber and for ease of storage in the workshop. To enable this to be done quickly and without fuss, a mobile base is an essential piece of kit. To enable further ease of use, a roller stand is a great asset when using long pieces of material, especially when working alone.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is not only a must in order to work safely when using a planer thicknesser but also helps you perform to your very best. When in use, these machines produce a high decibel level and can send chips flying in all directions so ear defenders and eye protection are imperative. Guide blocks will also keep your hands away from the cutter block and apply an even pressure on the boards when planing.
Summary
- Keep cast iron tables clean and rust‑free for smooth, accurate cuts
- Maintain blade sharpness with honing tools or correct-height replacements
- Use mobile bases and roller stands to improve handling of large timber
- Prioritise PPE such as ear defenders, eye protection and guide blocks for safe working
- Pair with a capable chip extractor to maintain consistent machine performance
Axminster Workshop AW118CI Cyclone Interceptor
Laguna C|Flux 1 Cyclone Extractor 230VSuitable extraction is paramount when using a planer thicknesser as they produce a vast amount of chippings. Although not considered to necessarily improve the functionality of a planer, this will undoubtedly improve your working conditions. Make sure you get a chip extractor with a large collection bag and the airflow to match the machines needs. For more information on choosing the right extractor, read our guide.
Woodworking Bandsaws
Axminster Workshop AW1950B Bandsaw - 230V
Axminster Professional SD3886B Bandsaw 230V
Laguna 14|BX Bandsaw 230V
Axminster Workshop AW1400B Bandsaw - 230VBandsaw safety and performance upgrades
The old adage that your saw is only as good as your blade applies to almost all bandsaws. To make sure that you get the right blade for your saw, we have a fantastic range of blades from high carbon to premium, with our unique, long lasting GT blades sure to catch your eye! If you’re not sure which blade is for you, view our guide here.
You won’t find a handier accessory for a bandsaw than our Bandsaw Buddy. With four great uses including blade setting and improved vernier cutting, it’s quickly become a must-have in any workshop.
If you’re looking to cut mitres, only the best mitre fence will do. Try the UJK Compact Mitre Gauge Fence and Flip Stock to improve the accuracy of your mitres. Worklights are handy anywhere but get one with a magnetic base to fit onto your bandsaw and allow you maximum visibility for precision work.
Bandsaws, although not always heavy, can be awkward to move so when cutting large pieces of timber where a lot of space is required, a mobile base will get your saw in place with minimal effort.
A featherboard will not only improve accuracy on the bandsaw but even more importantly, provides improved safety,; keeping fingers away from the blade and preventing the risk of kickback. Woodworking always poses a threat to your eyes, so make sure you take precautions with protective eyewear.
Summary
- Use high‑quality blades suited to your material for cleaner, faster cuts
- A Bandsaw Buddy improves blade setting and precision cutting
- Add a mitre gauge, work light and featherboard for accuracy and safety
- A mobile base helps position the saw when working with large stock
- Dust extraction reduces debris build-up on tables and band wheels
Numatic TRM240 M Class Vacuum Cleaner 230VAlthough extraction isn’t perfect on a bandsaw, it is still absolutely necessary. Not only does it increase safety and keep your workshop clean, it also means the machine can work to its optimum without a build-up of dust on the table or band wheels.
Dust Extractors
Axminster Professional AP145CE Cyclone Extractor
Laguna C|Flux 3 Cyclone Extractor 415V
Axminster Workshop AW118CE Cyclone Dust Extractor - 230VHow to improve dust extraction in your workshop
One sure fire way of improving an extractors performance is to upgrade the filter cartridge. Doing this for the AWEDE2 will get the filtration of this machine down to 1 micron; ideal for handling dusts produced by bandsaws and table saws. A plastic waste bag will also be required to collect the larger particles.
If your extractor already has 1 micron filtration, fit a HEPA module to improve this further to 0.3 microns; enabling you to handle even the finest of dusts as produced by sanders.
Some extractors come with hoses as standard, but for those that don’t it’s important to fit a high quality hose, as cheaper ones can tear under duress. Getting one with rubber end cuffs is always a big help to ensure a simple, close fit. If you have a static extractor but need it to work with a couple machines in your workshop, why not try a retractable hose? Only 1m in length when retracted, this can stretch out to 6m, large enough for almost any workshop.
If, however, you plan to have many machines in the workshop, it may be time to start thinking about a dust extraction kit. For the home workshop user, the 100mm dust extraction kit will provide you with everything you need to get started. For the professional user looking for something a bit more permanent and heavy duty, a metal ducting kit is a fantastic way to get your workshop extraction to its pinnacle performance.
Summary
- Upgrade to a finer filter cartridge or HEPA module for improved particle capture
- Choose durable hoses or retractable options for workshop flexibility
- Use plastic collection bags for easy waste removal
- Install a 100mm home workshop kit or heavy‑duty metal ducting for multi‑machine setups
- Better extraction improves air quality, machine lifespan and cut accuracy
FAQs
What accessories improve planer thicknesser performance?
Several accessories can significantly enhance performance and safety on a planer thicknesser. Keeping the cast iron tables clean with machine wax ensures smoother feeding and more accurate thicknessing. Sharp blades are essential, so regularly hone them or replace and set them with a blade setting jig. A roller stand helps support long boards, reducing snipe and improving cut quality. For mobility, a wheeled base makes repositioning the machine effortless. Finally, make sure you use suitable PPE and pair the machine with an appropriate chip extractor to manage the large volume of waste produced.
Which bandsaw blade should I choose for hardwood? For hardwood, you’ll get the best results from a high‑quality blade designed for durability and clean cutting. A premium or GT‑style blade is ideal because it holds its edge longer and reduces burning or wandering during the cut. Choose a blade with fewer TPI (teeth per inch) for faster, straighter cuts in thicker hardwoods, and a slightly higher TPI if you need smoother finishes on thinner stock. Always match your blade length and width to the specifications of your bandsaw to ensure safe and consistent performance. Do I need a cyclone extractor in a small workshop?
A cyclone extractor is beneficial even in a small workshop because it separates heavier chips from fine dust before they reach the main filter. This reduces clogging, maintains airflow and significantly improves filtration. If you work with machines like planers, thicknessers or table saws—which produce large volumes of waste—a cyclone system keeps your workspace cleaner and reduces the need for frequent filter cleaning. Smaller cyclone units are now available, making them ideal for compact hobby or professional setups.
Final thoughts...
Enhancing your woodworking machinery doesn’t always require major investment—often, the right accessories can significantly improve performance, precision and safety. From blade upgrades and mobility solutions to filtration improvements and extraction systems, each addition plays a key role in creating a cleaner, more efficient and more enjoyable workshop environment. Whether you’re a home hobbyist or a professional woodworker, these accessories ensure your machines continue operating at their very best.
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