This jig routs accurate and consistent flutes on tapered turned legs. The jig is a U-shaped plywood channel as wide as your router base, mounted to the lathe bed. Dimensions will vary according to your router base and the peculiarities of your lathe bed. Attach two router-support strips to the inside of the jig with bolts and wing nuts through slotted holes so the strips can be angled parallel with the tapered leg.

To use the jig, first turn all legs to shape, then mount the jig to the lathe bed. Chuck one leg between centers, locking it into position with the index head. Now set the router-support strips parallel with the turned workpiece. To do this, simply set a board (as wide as the interior of the jig) on the work and tighten the support strip’s wing nuts with the strips resting on the board. Remove this adjustment board and fasten stops to the support strips so each flute will be the same length. Now you’re ready to rout the flute. Use the holes in the lathe’s indexing head for accurate spacing of the flutes around the leg.

John Sanford, Camden, Maine

Fine Woodworking Magazine, April 1981 No. 27

Fine Woodworking Recommended Products

Estwing Dead-Blow Mallet

A quality dead-blow mallet that packs and punch but isn't too heavy for furniture work.

Buy at Amazon

Jorgensen 6 inch Bar Clamp Set, 4 Pack

Small light-duty clamps are best bought in quantity. These clamps are a great balance of affordability and quality—so stock up!

Buy at Amazon