This project was built and designed by Mark from Gunflint Designs. It’s a smart, multi-use table saw jig designed to cut clean bevels on drawer fronts and precise spline slots in picture frames.
Rather than building two separate jigs, Mark set out to create a single solution that could handle both tasks with accuracy and safety. The result is a workshop upgrade that simplifies tricky operations and shows how creative jig-making can unlock new possibilities in woodworking.
Watch the full video and subscribe to Mark’s channel:
Why This Jig Matters
Bevels and splines are more than just decorative. Bevels help elevate the appearance of drawer fronts, while splines add strength and visual interest to mitered joints, especially in picture frames.
The challenge, however, lies in cutting them safely and consistently. A jig like the one Mark designed offers repeatability and precision, helping reduce errors and make the process safer—especially when dealing with small or awkward workpieces.
Materials and Planning
Instead of using brand-new plywood or expensive materials, Mark pulls from his scrap pile. Old cabinet panels are repurposed into flat jig components, reinforcing the idea that high-functioning shop tools can come from leftover stock.
The jig’s design begins with cutting the base panels to size on the table saw. Flat, square pieces are essential here since even small irregularities can throw off alignment and lead to poor results during use.
Jig Assembly and Layout
Once the panels are cut, Mark uses alignment marks to locate where screws will be placed. Setting up a drill press ensures each hole is drilled to the correct depth and location for a flush screw finish.
The panels are clamped carefully and then joined with screws. A minor split in the plywood occurs during assembly—something many woodworkers can relate to—but it doesn’t affect the overall functionality of the jig.
What makes this step valuable is the attention to repeatable layout. By planning out the screw locations and mirror spacing, Mark sets the jig up for symmetrical use on both sides.
Expanding the Jig’s Capabilities
After the main structure is secured, Mark realizes there’s more potential here. By flipping the jig upside down and copying the layout, it becomes more flexible in how it can be positioned on the saw.
To improve how workpieces are held in place, Mark starts planning a better clamping method. Traditional clamps don’t work well on short or narrow drawer edges, so he decides to cut dovetail grooves across the jig’s face.
These grooves allow for sliding clamps to be attached and positioned exactly where they’re needed. This simple addition greatly increases the jig’s usability and keeps fingers farther from the blade.
Cutting the Dovetail Grooves
At the router table, Mark cuts clean dovetail grooves along the front face of the jig. These allow specialized clamps to slide into position securely without needing to grip awkward corners.
This is a big improvement from standard surface clamps and gives the user more control when holding small or delicate pieces. It also improves safety by keeping hands further away from the cutting path during bevel or spline operations.
Testing the Jig on the Table Saw
With the jig complete, Mark moves to the table saw to put it through a few test runs. First, he secures a fake drawer front and slides it along the jig to cut bevels on the long edges.
The result is smooth and consistent. However, beveling the short sides presents a new challenge, since clamping in those areas is still difficult. Mark acknowledges this and begins exploring ways to adapt the jig further—perhaps with vertical clamping or auxiliary support blocks in a future version.
Versatility and Real-World Application
Once bevel cuts are dialed in, Mark shifts focus to cutting spline slots. The jig performs well, guiding picture frame corners through the blade at the correct angle and helping maintain control.
This proves that a well-designed jig doesn’t have to be dedicated to a single task. With careful layout, dovetail clamping options, and solid construction, it can be adapted for multiple repetitive operations—saving space and effort in the shop.
Why Details Like Bevels and Splines Matter
Mark reminds viewers that bevels do more than just clean up drawer faces. They add depth and visual appeal, helping cabinetry feel polished and intentional. The same goes for splines—what starts as a strength-enhancing joint also becomes a signature design feature.
These small touches help differentiate handmade projects from factory-produced pieces. A jig like this makes it easier to add them consistently, even when working on larger batches of drawers or frames.
A Practical Jig for Any Woodworker
This project is a great example of how one shop-built tool can serve multiple purposes. From repurposed plywood to thoughtful joinery options, Mark’s jig is a lesson in functional, low-cost problem-solving.
Whether you’re building drawers, framing artwork, or just want cleaner results from your table saw, this jig is a smart addition to your shop. It’s simple enough to build in a day but powerful enough to use for years.
You can see all of Mark’s plans here: https://www.gunflintdesigns.com/project-plans.