Looking to create tapered legs for your woodworking projects? Steve Ramsey from Woodworking for Mere Mortals has designed an ultra-simple tapering jig that you can build using just some scrap plywood and a few toggle clamps.
Materials and Tools Needed
- 3/4″ plywood (for the jig base and fence)
- Toggle clamps
- Screws
- Square
- Drill
- Saw (table saw or circular saw)
- Measuring tape
Step 1: Preparing the Base and Fence
Start by cutting two strips of 3/4″ plywood for the fence and a wider board for the base, all to the same length. The jig will be held together with screws, not glue, allowing for adjustments later on.
Step 2: Attaching the Fence
Screw the two pieces together for the fence, ensuring they are flush. Then, attach the fence to the base using the actual leg that you plan to taper as a guide. This will help you make it parallel with the edge.
Step 3: Adding a Cleat
Next, cut out a small strip to act as a cleat and drill pilot holes to prevent splitting. Attach it to the bottom of the jig.
Step 4: Installing the Toggle Clamps
Attach the toggle clamps to the jig with screws. This will hold the leg securely in place while you make your cuts.
Step 5: Marking the Leg for Tapering
Before cutting, mark your table leg to indicate where the taper will begin. For a typical table leg, mark about 6 to 8 inches down from the top. Also, label each side of the leg for reference during cutting.
Step 6: Setting Up for the First Cut
Determine the dimensions of the bottom of the leg and adjust the set screw on the jig to match the taper you want. Place the leg in the jig, ensuring the top is pressed against the fence.
Step 7: Making the First Cut
Lock the toggle clamps in place and make the first taper cut. Slide the leg through the saw blade to create the taper.
Step 8: Cutting the Adjacent Sides
For the next side, adjust the leg in the jig and repeat the process, ensuring you cut adjacent sides, not opposite ones.
Step 9: Finalizing the Cuts
Continue this process for the remaining sides of the leg, adjusting the set screw as necessary to accommodate the changes in thickness from the previous cuts.
Step 10: Testing and Adjusting
Once all cuts are made, test the taper by placing it against the floor. Adjust the jig as needed for future projects. Remember to make an extra test leg from scrap to refine your setup!
This tapering jig is not only easy to make but also easy to use. While it may not be the most precise jig available, it’s perfect for most woodworking projects, especially when you don’t need to make tapered cuts frequently.