box joints?

[theflyingpig]

Hi all,

is is possible to make box joints using a router, and if so how??

thanks!

 

[theflyingpig]

uisng a straight router bit on a router table I see by having a bit of a search - but how do I set up the table / make a jig?

ta

 

[theflyingpig]

sorry guys - just found this usful article . .

http://www.routerworkshop.com/boxjoints.html

seems easy enough (I say now . . . )

 

[oilman]

Easy is not the word I would use. Once you have got it sorted it might be easy, but it is a deceptive joint and looks simple. Do lots of research, and you will probably come to the conclusion that a spiral cut bit is the thing to go for to reduce chipout, breakout, splintering, whatever you like to call it.

 

[theflyingpig]

hmmmmm. thanks for warning . . .what other joint could I use for making very small drawers?
thanks

 

[Symptoms]

Yes you can do finger joints with a router. A relatively simple jig is needed with a locating peg (dia same as finger) spaced the same (finger) distance from the router cutter (size of finger, obviously). End cut though timber (stagger & clamp the boards together so alternate pins are cut in one action) and have a sacrificial piece to prevent breakout. It goes without saying that proper support of the workpiece needs to be considered.

If you've got a table saw you could make them on this.

 

[Jasonb]

Its not too hard to knock up a jig as symptons says. I have done it with the router table and table saw using a blade with flat top teeth. Use my Leigh jig now though.

Jason