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Build these jigs to help you get the most out of your table saw. The table saw is commonly thought of as the centerpiece of the modern hobbyist woodshop, but you need to accessorize it to get the most out of it. Join Fine Woodworking contributing editor Bob Van Dyke in this online course dedicated to building essential table saw jigs. Designed for both novice and experienced woodworkers, this course guides you step-by-step through the construction and use of four indispensable jigs: a crosscut sled, a multi-use rip fence attachment, an L-fence, and a tenoning jig. Each jig is designed to enhance precision, safety, and efficiency in your woodworking projects.

Projects Included In This Course

Crosscut Sled

A well-made, accurate crosscut sled is the most valuable table saw accessory. Since much of the work done on the sled falls within 4 in. to 8 in. wide, it makes sense to build a small, lightweight sled that is easy to handle for most of your table saw cuts. This one fits that bill, and it’s simple to make.

Multi-use rip fence attachment

When Bob needed an auxiliary rip fence that he could easily attach and remove without damaging the table saw’s main fence or sacrificing accuracy, he came up with this supercharged base, which is both practical and versatile. The base is made from 3/4-in. Baltic-birch plywood fastened into an H-shape that straddles the saw’s rip fence. A pair of toggle clamps apply pressure to the back of the base, drawing the front tightly into place. After the base is built, it’s a simple matter to equip it with the add-on fences you need for tasks such as cutting rabbets, tenons, raised panels, and other workpieces.

L-fence

Rabbets, tenons, flush-trimming, miters, and pattern work all get significantly easier when you build an adjustable L-fence. It consists of a fixed backer board that clamps to the rip fence, with a slotted L-fence that can be located above the blade and adjusted for a perfect cut. The location eliminates the risk of kickback and small parts being trapped between the blade and fence. With the addition of this fence, your table saw just got a lot more versatile.

Tenoning jig

This jig cuts all types of tenons equally well, from narrow ones for table aprons, to wide ones for breadboard ends, to angled ones for chairs. Its main feature is a thick, laminated plywood bridge that straddles the table saw’s rip fence, dampening any vibration that could lead to inaccuracy. This bridge allows the jig to be adjustable and to work with the fence on either side of the blade.

Running time: approximately 5 hours

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