Glenn - great tip - I also do that from time to time - I do NOT use the solid colors though, I use the softer side of the reds and blues and greens - doesn't use as much ink.

 

Harry -, something else I did (another 2 cents worth) - I got a couple of LED 75 watt flood lamps, mounted the sockets on a scrap 24" x 12" board (close to each end) - hung them over and slightly in front of the blade holder - gives me great light and a two dimensional shadow - really helps these old eyes

 

 

Good idea. That's what it is all about. Sharing tips and ideas to help one another to become better craftsman and make it easier.

One of the things that helps me is I have 2 strong lights, one on the right and one on the left and they make the blade throw an intersecting shadow right were it is cutting and that help me keep to the line a lot.

 

DW

David - I have these installed on my bench.  Easier on the eyes for us "older generation"