How do you properly use a biscuit joiner in carpentry?

A biscuit joiner, also known as a plate joiner, is a specialized woodworking tool used to join two pieces of wood together. It uses a small circular blade to create a slot or groove in the wood, into which a wooden biscuit is inserted. The biscuit swells when glue is applied, creating a strong and durable joint.

Here are the steps for using a biscuit joiner:

1. Mark the location of the joint on both pieces of wood.
2. Adjust the fence on the biscuit joiner to the correct depth and angle for the type of joint you are making.
3. Insert the blade into the wood, following the marked line.
4. Repeat on the other piece of wood to create the matching slot.
5. Insert the wooden biscuit into the slot in one of the pieces of wood.
6. Apply glue to the joint, and clamp the two pieces of wood together, allowing the glue to dry.

When using a biscuit joiner, it's important to keep safety in mind. Always wear eye protection and ear protection, and avoid loose clothing or jewelry that could get caught in the tool.