[coondogger]

Hello out there. I came to this site looking for some specific information. I'm a beekeeper who has been relying on others for my woodenware (beekeeper for hive components). I'd like to start building my own. Building hive components involves extensive use of box joints. To be honest, I wouldn't trust the accuracy of any jig made by myself. So I'm looking for a recommendation for one. It must be simple to use. (I'm not a professional woodworker) and accurate. Also I prefer to use my router so it must be compatible with a router table. Any suggestions?

 

[Joe Lyddon]

Hello out there. I came to this site looking for some specific information. I'm a beekeeper who has been relying on others for my woodenware (beekeeper for hive components). I'd like to start building my own. Building hive components involves extensive use of box joints. To be honest, I wouldn't trust the accuracy of any jig made by myself. So I'm looking for a recommendation for one. It must be simple to use. (I'm not a professional woodworker) and accurate. Also I prefer to use my router so it must be compatible with a router table. Any suggestions?

I looked a long time before I settled on these...
http://us.oak-park.com/catalogue.html?list=boxj--

Oak Park Spacer Fences... Setup one, done for all!
Nice thing, they are SALE!! This is the best time to get all three of them... 1/4, 3/8, & 1/2.

For more information, goto
http://www.routerforums.com/
... search for "spacer fence" and you will get informed.

In my gallery, I have a writeup of my First experience in using these jigs to make my First box joints:
http://www.ncwoodworker.net/pp/showgallery.php?cat=842

They are the easiest way to make them... bar none... IMHO, of course.

If you ever watch www.TheWoodworkingChannel.com , and the Router Workshop programs, you will see them using these jigs... you will see how easy it is to use them!

I'm sure if you try them, you WILL like them!

They are made using the Router... in a table.

 

[Joe Lyddon]

Welcome Aboard!

 

[joasis]

Sears has a box joint jig, less the $70 if I remember correctly, and would do exactly what you want. Good luck.

 

[coondogger]

saw and router jigs interchangeable?

Sears has a box joint jig, less the $70 if I remember correctly, and would do exactly what you want. Good luck.

I notice that the sears jig is pictured being used on a table saw with a dado blade. I'd prefer to use my router. Are table saw and router jigs interchangeable? I can't see why not since both use a miter gauge and slot. But thought I'd ask just in case I'm missing something (wouldn't be the first time).

 

[Joe Lyddon]

I notice that the sears jig is pictured being used on a table saw with a dado blade. I'd prefer to use my router. Are table saw and router jigs interchangeable? I can't see why not since both use a miter gauge and slot. But thought I'd ask just in case I'm missing something (wouldn't be the first time).

I'd say it depends on the jig... BUT...

The general logic to the jigs may be the same BUT the way they interface via miter guides, fences, etc. would make them differ in minor details...

Generally, they are two different worlds...

 

[coondogger]

jig confusion

Now that all the dust has settled and I'm even more confused, I've decided to go ahead and make a jig. The plan for the jig I found is specific to the project (beehives). It uses a 3/4" plywood fences with a single 3/4" keyhole cut in it, nine inches from the end. Then a 3/4" spacer next to the key, and there's my first cut. I'll try to post the jig and the first box joint. Thanks to all who advised me.

 

[Joe Lyddon]

Now that all the dust has settled and I'm even more confused, I've decided to go ahead and make a jig. The plan for the jig I found is specific to the project (beehives). It uses a 3/4" plywood fences with a single 3/4" keyhole cut in it, nine inches from the end. Then a 3/4" spacer next to the key, and there's my first cut. I'll try to post the jig and the first box joint. Thanks to all who advised me.

Sorry for any confusion... but jigs are made to do a job on a specific piece of equipment. ie a Router & table is different from a Table saw.

For more help, take a look at:
http://www.woodworkstuff.net/woodidxjigs.html

When you make jig, make it as accurate as you can... or you will get "girgo"... Garbage In, Refined Garbage Out. :laughing:

It's an art to be able to design & make jigs to make your job easier... the more jigs you make, the more techniques you learn, to make more jigs... Jigs make performing the difficult tasks EASY, accurate, and SAFE.

They are the Key to many projects.