The video “5 Woodworking Jigs, Easy to Make, Accurate and Essential to Any Workshop” is by John McGrath (Man In Shed). In this video, John shares how to create 5 essential woodworking jigs using plywood. These jigs are easy to make and bring a level of accuracy and efficiency that every woodworker can appreciate.
1. 90-Degree Clamping Jigs
John kicks off the tutorial with the creation of 90-degree clamping jigs, which are incredibly handy when working solo. These jigs allow you to securely clamp two boards together at a perfect right angle, making it easier to screw or glue components together.
Using a piece of plywood, John demonstrates how to cut triangles at 45 degrees to create the clamping edges. He emphasizes the importance of ensuring that all edges are straight and perfectly square, which is crucial for achieving the desired 90-degree angle. After measuring and marking the notches for the clamps, he quickly assembles the pieces, resulting in a functional jig that takes only ten minutes to make.
2. Motor Spline Jig
Next, John introduces the motor spline jig, a tool he previously showcased in another video. This jig is designed for cutting splines at 45-degree angles, which are essential for reinforcing corners in projects like boxes.
John uses a flat piece of plywood, marking the center point and cutting 45-degree angles on either side. This jig can run against the fence of a router table or a miter saw, allowing for precise cuts that look professional. It’s a quick five-minute build that can greatly enhance the quality of your woodworking joints.
3. Bench Hook
The humble bench hook is up next. John describes it as an essential tool for any workshop. This jig is simple to construct and serves to secure the workpiece while sawing, ensuring that the wood doesn’t move during the cut.
Made from plywood, the bench hook features two hooks that lock it onto the workbench. Whether using a Western saw or a Japanese saw, this jig accommodates both types, making it versatile. John highlights how the bench hook can help maintain stability and protect the workbench during cuts.
4. Shooting Board
John then moves on to the shooting board, a must-have for anyone using hand planes. This jig allows for precise planing of edges, ensuring they are straight and square.
Using a higher-quality piece of plywood, John carefully constructs the shooting board, ensuring that the edges are perfectly straight and square. He emphasizes the importance of the fence being exactly 90 degrees to the top edge to avoid creating unjoined edges. The shooting board is simple to build and can be completed in about half an hour, providing a reliable solution for achieving clean, accurate cuts.
5. Winding Sticks
Lastly, John demonstrates how to make a set of winding sticks, which are essential for checking and correcting any twist in a board.
He splits a piece of plywood in half, ensuring that the edges are square, and marks them for easy identification. The winding sticks help visualize any twists in the wood, allowing for adjustments to be made before final cuts are made. This quick project can be completed in just a few minutes but offers significant benefits in ensuring the quality of the woodworking pieces.
Conclusion
In summary, John’s video provides a fantastic overview of five essential jigs that any woodworker can make using plywood. Each jig is designed to improve accuracy and efficiency in woodworking projects, making them invaluable tools for both beginners and seasoned woodworkers alike. With straightforward instructions and practical tips, John encourages viewers to take on these projects, especially during times when staying busy is essential.