Cutting Stretchers for Tapered Legs
The ends of stretchers that join to tapered table legs must be crosscut at the same angle to join the legs properly. You can calculate the angle and set the tablesaw miter gauge to the calculated angle. But there is an easier and more accurate method similar to the way carpenters cut roof rafters.
Characterize the taper as x in. of taper over y in. of length. When you characterize the taper in this way, it’s easy to set the proper angle by leaving the miter gauge set at 90ยก and shimming the stretcher out from the miter gauge to get the correct angle.
For example, if the leg tapers 1/4 in. over each 12 in. of length, place a 1/4-in. shim 12 in. from the sawblade to set the correct angle of the stretcher cut. Cut one end of the stretcher; then flip it over, and cut the other end to the desired length. If necessary, you can use a smaller shim closer to the blade if you maintain the same x to y ratio. In the example cited, a 1/8-in. shim 6 in. from the blade would accomplish the same result.
James Potzick, Potomac, Md.
Fine Woodworking Magazine, October 1998 No. 132
Fine Woodworking Recommended Products
Stanley Powerlock 16-ft. tape measure
Estwing Dead-Blow Mallet
Incra Miter 1000HD
Comments
While this works, I prefer to match the taper angle exactly by using my taper jig to taper the legs and to cut wedges that are the exact same angle.
Then that wedge can be used on the tablesaw against the miter gauge to cut the apron taper to exactly the same angle as the leg.
Is it not possible to simply use the off-cut from the leg as a wedge ?
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