Easy jigs – FineWoodworking

There isn’t a doubt that jigs and fixtures are extraordinarily useful for a lot of operations in woodworking. However what precisely is a jig or fixture and why are they so useful? First let’s take into account the distinction between the 2. 

Jigs vs. fixtures

Jigs management and information a chopping software to work on a workpiece, whereas fixtures are used for supporting and finding a workpiece. In sensible phrases, a dovetail noticed information is taken into account a jig as a result of it guides the chopping software (the noticed) via the wooden to create the angled lower everyone knows and love. 

Fixtures usually get seen in machining operations. For instance, if you’re into CNC woodworking, a fixture would find and assist a chunk of wooden whereas a machine works on the piece. Fixtures are typically motionless whereas jigs are transportable.

I take advantage of jigs extra usually in my woodworking for each hand- and power-tool purposes. There are two faculties of thought in relation to the making of those jigs. Some people prefer to make them to furnishings high quality—good wooden or Baltic birch, and good fixings like stainless-steel or brass. On the opposite finish of the spectrum (the place I discover myself), you may have jigs which can be slapped along with scrap bin items, all held along with globs of sizzling glue, pins, and screws. 

Necessity vs. high quality

In my very own workflow, I don’t usually use a jig past its preliminary necessities. I don’t make jigs to be reused again and again as a result of I don’t usually make the identical factor twice. The exception is that if I make jigs for educating lessons. These must be nicely constructed and reusable as a result of they are going to be used many occasions by many individuals. Nevertheless usually the jig might be used, I nonetheless often simply burn up scraps to make it.

The pictured easy jig is used to make solid-wood bow ties to stabilize pure cracks in wooden. As you possibly can see, it’s made out of an previous scrap of crumby cabinet-grade plywood. The jig is massive sufficient to create an enormous bow tie if wanted however will also be used for smaller, extra delicate ones. It took about 2 minutes to make the jig and can doubtless be the one one I’ll ever must construct. I put a little bit of wax on the operating edge and floor however aside from that, it’s fairly low upkeep.

I’ve seen many adjustable jigs up to now however I’m not a fan of them. I discover they take a very long time to construct and must be well-built to face the check of time. The one which involves thoughts is an adjustable desk for the drill press which helps to drill angled holes. I desire to make a few wedges, connect a floor that may act as a desk, after which use it for the undertaking. It takes 5 minutes or so to construct then will get recycled once I’m carried out with it. 

Means to an finish

Regardless, jigs and fixtures could be a enormous time saver, and extra importantly, can guarantee accuracy while you want it most. Whether or not you construct lovely jigs or fast and soiled ones like me, the work they do is essential. 

If you wish to see this jig in motion, try this YouTube video.

	The case for hand-cut dovetails Sometime, it’s possible you’ll select to chop dovetails utilizing a jig and a machine. However there’s actual worth in doing them the old school means when you are studying.
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