Replies

1. 
   jackplane | Jul 29, 2004 04:25pm | #1

   Yes. for a router, build a new base from plex or ply. Then drill and plug two holes with dowels equidistant from the center. Most woodwork catalogs sell a similar jig.

1. 
   foose89 | Jul 29, 2004 05:02pm | #2

   Thanks for the quick reply... but I am looking for a more universal approach.. granted your solution solves the problem of my example.  I would like to be able to find the center of any work piece quickly. By analogy, maybe I can make myself more clear. Toolmakers are notorious for having quick dodges to common problems that would other wise be tedious to solve properly.

1. 
   pauldowns | Jul 29, 2004 05:19pm | #3

   The jig described above will center on any workpiece narrower than the gap between the dowels. Place the router with pegs over the piece, and rotate it until both pegs are snug against the sides of the piece - the bit is then centered. The only problem with this jig is that it is hard to cut a mortise at the end of a piece, or on a very short piece.

2. 
   JohnWW | Jul 29, 2004 09:44pm | #4

   Here's the dodge you're looking for: Set the blade of a combination square to project approximately half the width of the piece you're dividing.  Now, using the square, mark in from both edges of the piece.  If, by luck, you got the square set exactly right, the two marks will be on top of each other and you'll have your center line.  If the setting wasn't perfect, either over or under, the two marks will be slightly separated and you can easily reset the square by eye to hit the exact center between the two marks.

   John W.  

1. 
   foose89 | Jul 30, 2004 04:34pm | #5

   Thanks to all who have taken the time to respond.