I know I’ve seen plans before somewhere, but can’t remember where. Does anyone have plans or ideas for a shop-made jig to cut the corner slots for spline joints? I’d like to make one that is adjustable for different sizes of boxes, and perhaps for different angles. Any pics, plans or descriptions would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks for your help!
Tom
Replies
I use one of these and will try to describe it.
I fastened two pieces of plywood approx 5" x 20" together along the long edge at ninety degrees to form an 'L' shaped trough. I attached square end caps to this oriented so the 'L' became a 'V' at 45 degrees to horizontal. The bottom of the end caps are set flush with the bottom of the 'V'. Next, I mounted this assembly on an approx. 8" x 24" piece of ply by fastening through this ply into the bottom of the end caps. Last, I aligned this assembly at ninety degrees to the blade on my tablesaw and fastened mitre slot runners to the base.
Dimensions can be changed to suit your requirements. When the blade slot gets ragged or I want to ensure no tearout, I just lay a piece of 1/4" MDF on the back leg of the trough and hold it in place with spring clamps. When the jig I have finally wears out, I'll use MDF for it's replacement.
Edited 4/2/2002 3:45:21 PM ET by Dick
Many years ago I made cabinets for a music synthesizer company. They were made from 3/4" walnut ply with mitered corners which I joined using 1/8" plywood splines. I cut the slots using a radial-arm aw with the blade tilted 45 deg. It worked fine - no jigs involved. I don't see why you couldn't do the same on a talblesaw.
Ooops, sorry, I thought you meant slipfeather type splines.
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