At TechnicalDrawing.us, the focus has always been on practical, buildable plans that serve real needs. Over the years, many readers have asked for plans that allow them to turn raw materials into usable lumber without expensive machinery. In response to that interest, I’ll be starting work on a new set of plans for a portable chainsaw carriage sawmill.
This mill is based on a simple, proven principle: instead of attaching a chainsaw directly to a bar-mounted frame, the saw is mounted securely to a rolling carriage that travels along parallel guide rails. The log remains stationary, while the cutting head moves smoothly and consistently through the cut.
This approach offers several advantages:
-
Improved cut accuracy
-
Better control over slab thickness
-
Reduced operator fatigue
-
A more rigid and repeatable setup
The result is a system that bridges the gap between a basic chainsaw attachment and a small portable sawmill.
What the plans will focus on
The upcoming plans will be drafted with the same attention to clarity and usability found in all TechnicalDrawing.us products. The goal is to provide drawings that a skilled DIY builder can follow with confidence, using commonly available materials and tools.
Planned features include:
-
A stable rolling carriage design
-
Adjustable cutting height for consistent board thickness
-
Scalable rail lengths for different log sizes
-
Clear dimensional drawings and assembly views
-
A complete bill of materials and cut list
Where possible, the design will allow for flexibility, so builders can adapt the mill to their available materials or preferred construction methods.
Who these plans are for
These plans are intended for:
-
Woodworkers and hobby sawyers
-
Homesteaders and off-grid builders
-
DIY builders looking to mill their own lumber
-
Anyone wanting a cost-effective alternative to commercial sawmills
No specialized machining equipment should be required—only careful fabrication and attention to detail.
Project status
Drafting work on this project will begin shortly. As the design develops, updates may be posted outlining progress, design decisions, and final specifications. Once completed, the plans will be offered as a downloadable PDF through this site.
If you’ve ever wanted to turn logs into usable boards with a well-thought-out, buildable system, this upcoming project was designed with you in mind.