This project was built and designed by Sam Macy. It’s a carefully crafted picture frame sled that delivers accurate, repeatable cuts for frame-making on the table saw.
Sam’s version is inspired by a sled designed by David Picciuto from Make Something, and it focuses on safety, control, and precision. With an aluminum framing square at its core and a stable plywood base, this jig is a must-have for any woodworker making picture frames regularly.
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Why a Picture Frame Sled Matters
Standard miter sleds often work well for general angled cuts but can fall short when it comes to frame-making. Common issues include tipping, inconsistency, and poor accuracy—all of which lead to frustrating gaps in the corners.
Sam tackles this challenge by building a sled that minimizes tipping and adds features for consistent, repeatable results. It’s ideal for anyone making frames for artwork, photography, or home décor, where a clean miter is critical.
Starting with the Base
The sled begins with a sturdy plywood base, cut square to match the table saw’s fence. It’s important that this base be flat and stable, as it sets the tone for the entire jig.
If a single piece of plywood isn’t available, gluing two sheets together works just as well. This added thickness also improves rigidity and helps the sled sit flat on the table saw surface.
Adding the Miter Slot Rails
Hardwood strips are used to ride in the miter slots of the saw. These can be made in the shop or purchased pre-cut, and they need to fit snugly to avoid any side-to-side movement.
Sam uses a simple trick—superglue and penny weights—to position the rails before the adhesive sets. This method ensures the runners are aligned with the saw blade without requiring clamps or complex fixtures.
The Secret to Perfect Miters
What truly sets this sled apart is the aluminum framing square mounted to the base. Installed at a 45-degree angle, the square provides a rigid and reliable guide for making consistent miters.
This setup ensures the frame pieces are cut at identical angles with each pass. The aluminum square won’t flex or wear over time like wood, which means the jig holds its accuracy through repeated use.
Assembly and Testing
Once the runners and framing square are installed, the sled is tested for accuracy. Sam makes trial cuts and checks the results by pairing the pieces together—looking for tight seams and perfect corners.
The jig also includes a stop block, which can be clamped in place to repeat cuts at the same length. This feature is especially helpful when batch-making frames or producing parts for a matched set.
Smoother Operation and Better Safety
One of the key benefits of this sled is that it doesn’t tip back during cuts. The wide base and well-placed guides help it glide smoothly across the saw table, giving the user more control and confidence.
This stability is not just about comfort—it’s also about safety. A sled that stays flat keeps hands further from the blade and reduces the chance of misaligned cuts or kickback.
Final Adjustments and Use
With everything aligned and tested, Sam uses the sled to make frame pieces that fit together cleanly and securely. The combination of square alignment, sturdy runners, and reliable stop blocks makes every cut fast and accurate.
Even if you’ve made frames before, this jig takes the experience to another level. It simplifies the process, speeds things up, and improves the final quality of each frame.
Expanding Your Skills and Setup
Sam’s approach shows how investing time into a custom jig can lead to better results across multiple projects. While this sled is designed for frames, the principles behind it—rigid alignment, snug runners, and thoughtful layout—can apply to many types of sleds and jigs.
For woodworkers looking to improve their setups, this is an excellent build that doesn’t require expensive materials or complex tools. Just plywood, a framing square, and a bit of care during assembly.
Learn More and Support the Creator
Sam also mentions that he’s recently opened an Etsy shop to feature his handmade art and woodworking projects. His sled is part of the workflow that helps him produce high-quality frames for that shop.
This project is a great example of how a well-designed jig can pay off in both quality and productivity. It’s an easy recommendation for anyone serious about picture framing or shop-made jigs.
Please support Sam by visiting his website here: https://sammacydesigns.com/.