Using a dovetail jig is a great way to produce quality furniture pieces. However, there are a few mistakes to watch out for when using one.
Double-sided templates
Using a Porter cable dovetail jig is a great way to create dovetail joints. This jig features a 12-inch capacity and fixed aluminum templates. The jig also features cam-type sandpaper-backed clamps and a one-piece steel base.
The jig is designed to cut two boards at once. This helps you speed up drawer assembly. However, the jig will not be able to handle boards that are too thin or wider than the capacity of the jig. You can expand the range of joints by using optional templates.
The Porter-Cable jig comes with a template guide bushing and a dovetail bit. It is recommended that you use an 8-degree or 14-degree dovetail router bit. The diameter of the dovetail bit should be the same as the diameter of the workpiece. You can use a standard aftermarket bit as well.
Sturdiness
Among the many dovetail jigs available on the market, the Porter Cable 4216 is one of the most cost-effective and versatile options. Despite its modest price, this jig boasts a host of features that will help you get a great dovetail cut every time.
The 4216 does not require any assembly, and includes a template guide, four templates, and two lock nuts. It also has patented adjustment lines and a router bit depth gauge that allows you to set the depth of the bit without measuring it.
The 4216 dovetail jig accepts workpieces from 1/4″ to 1-1/8″ thick and is suitable for cutting through dovetails. It also includes a template for through and half-blind dovetails, and a template for box joints.
The 4216 dovetail rig has a durable single-piece steel base that allows you to clamp it directly to your workbench. This provides extra support for your router, and allows you to easily and safely route your wood.
Variable vs fixed jigs
Whether you’re looking for a fixed or variable dovetail jig, there are several options that offer different features and benefits. In this article, we’ll discuss some of the most important factors to consider when choosing a jig.
Variable jigs allow you to adjust the spacing and number of guide fingers. This allows you to create different types of joints, such as box joints, half blind dovetails, and through dovetails. This option is a bit more complicated, but it allows you to have more control over the look of the joint.
Fixed dovetail jigs are simple to set up and use. They also produce excellent, uniform joints. You’ll need a router bit with a shank size of at least 1/4” to use these jigs.
The Leigh D4R Pro is a variable dovetail jig that can be used to create both box and half blind dovetails. It is one of the most versatile options on the market and allows you to create eight different types of joints. It includes a 76-page illustrated manual and a variety of tools to help you get started.
Common materials used in dovetail jigs
Whether you’re looking for a dovetail jig for your woodworking projects or for a gift for a family member, there are many options to choose from. However, there are several factors to consider before you purchase one.
One of the first things to consider is the materials used in the construction of the jig. This is because they will impact the accuracy of the joints. Some of the most important materials to look for are steel and aluminum.
Another factor to consider is the base. Some jigs come with a solid, one-piece steel base. Others use aluminum for their body. This will make the dovetail jig lighter and less expensive. However, aluminum requires a bit of care when handling the machine.
The size of the jig will also affect the size of the workpieces you can cut. Most jigs have a maximum width of about 12 inches. This is usually enough for most drawers. However, if you’re cutting larger dovetailed box joints, you’ll want a jig with a larger capacity.
Mistakes to avoid when using a dovetail jig
Using a Porter-Cable dovetail jig requires some skill and patience. But, if you learn to use it correctly, the results are worth the effort.
A dovetail jig clamps boards vertically, allowing you to cut pins and tails at the same time. It is important to secure the jig before you cut. Otherwise, you may end up with a poor joint.
The jig is also designed to allow you to cut different size joints. It has a number of different templates for different dovetail joint styles. It can also handle two boards at the same time.
Another useful feature of the Porter-Cable dovetail jig is the sandpaper-backed cam-type clamps. This ensures a firm grip on your workpiece and a dust-free routing experience.
Other features include a full-width router support and four template guides. The full-width router support ensures that you will be routing the boards accurately. This is important to avoid errors when cutting your joints.
