While attempting to rout long sliding dovetails on the end of shelving joints, I found it impossible to keep the over-wide and long shelves perpendicular to my router table. Here is a fixture I devised that, in effect, brings the table to the work. It’s a platform with a slot in the middle and two perpendiculars for sandwiching the work. To rout the dovetail, I clamp the work in the jig flush with the top of the platform. Two fences, attached at the proper spacing, guide the router and ensure a consistent dovetail.

Victor Gaines, Glenside, Pa.

Fine Woodworking Magazine, June 1983 No. 40

Fine Woodworking Recommended Products

Leigh D4R Pro

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MicroJig Matchfit dovetail clamps

These unique clamps have angled tips that hold templates and fences in place without getting in the way.

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Suizan Japanese Pull Saw

A versatile saw that can be used for anything from kumiko to dovetails. Mike Pekovich recommends them as a woodworker's first handsaw.

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