Upgrade Your Thin Strip Ripping Jig: A Step-by-Step Guide

This project, created by Colin Knecht from WoodWorkWeb. In this guide, you will find detailed steps to build your own thin strip ripping jig, complete with all the materials and tools you’ll need.

Materials Needed

  • American Beech (offcut for the base)
  • Baltic Birch plywood (for the upright and hold down tower)
  • Red Alder (for the handle)
  • Hanger bolt (16 inches)
  • Washers and nuts
  • T-nut
  • Wood screws
  • Wood glue

Tools Required

  • Table saw
  • Drill press
  • Reciprocating sander
  • Driver
  • Compression bit
  • Push stick

Step 1: Preparing the Base

Colin starts by selecting an offcut of American Beech, measuring 3 inches by 1.5 inches. This piece will serve as the base for the jig. He mentions that the original jig was too narrow, so he opts to create a longer version. A hanger bolt with a machine thread on one side and a wood screw on the other will be used for the handle.

Selecting an offcut of American Beech

Step 2: Creating the Hold Down Tower

Next, Colin moves on to the hold down tower, which will allow for adjustments. He cuts two strips from Baltic Birch plywood, each half an inch thick. Using a compression bit, he prepares to create a clean cut for the upright part of the jig.

Cutting the hold down tower from Baltic Birch

Step 3: Assembling the Handle

With the components ready, Colin starts assembling the jig. He drills diagonal holes in the handle to secure it with screws. This step is quite simple, and he emphasizes the importance of a sturdy handle for better control.

Drilling diagonal holes in the handle

Step 4: Attaching the Upright

Colin then attaches the upright to the base using a hanger bolt. He pre-drills the hole for the bolt and secures it with a washer and nut. This connection is essential for the jig’s stability and functionality.

Attaching the upright to the base

Step 5: Adding the T-Nut

To allow for vertical adjustments, Colin installs a T-nut into the upright. He grinds it down for the right angle and secures it with a bolt and a nut. This part of the jig is crucial as it provides flexibility when working with different wood thicknesses.

Installing the T-nut into the upright

Step 6: Final Assembly and Testing

After finalizing the jig assembly, Colin changes the blade on the table saw to a thin circular saw blade that is ideal for cutting strips. He performs several test cuts, ensuring that the strips remain steady and do not move around during the process. The success of these cuts confirms the effectiveness of the jig.

Testing the jig with thin circular saw blade

Conclusion

Colin wraps up this project by reflecting on how often he uses this thin strip ripping jig. He mentions that he frequently gives these jigs away to friends and fellow woodworkers who admire the design. With the upgraded features, this jig is sure to become an indispensable tool in any workshop. Colin plans to add some color to the jig to enhance its appearance, making it not only functional but also visually appealing.

Video

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