While building a suite of benches for the lobby of a local university, I faced one particularly challenging problem. The bench design called for triangular blocks to stiffen the joints, and each block needed a notch cut into the corner to fit around the leg. I had a bunch of blocks to notch, so I needed a safe and efficient method. This jig slides in the tablesaw miter slot and holds the workpiece firmly so that I can cut notches without concern.

I used 1/2-in. plywood for the base, maple for the fence and stop block, and a De-Sta-Co clamp to hold the workpiece. The fence is attached to the base with countersunk machine screws that tighten into T-nuts in the top of the fence. Slots in the base allow the fence and stop block to move so you can cut different-size notches.

Jim Richey

Jim Richey

Jim Richey

Michael Ellis, Portland, OR

Fine Woodworking Recommended Products

Rockler Deluxe Panel Clamp

These clamps can handle glue-ups between 10 in. and 36 in. wide, and boards up to 3 in. thick. Sliding feet attach to the lower bars with magnets, letting you position them quickly for stability on any surface. The spring-loaded jaws adjust easily, dropping into notches along the bars. And the powerful clamp handles clear the benchtop.

Buy at Amazon

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.

Buy at Amazon

Stanley Powerlock 16-ft. tape measure

With its smooth lock, tough case, compact size, and excellent accuracy, this Stanley tape is perfect for workshop use.

Buy at Amazon