Cutting a slot on an inside curve

[ntb]

I'm hoping for a bit of advice on how best to proceed...

I'm building an arched picture frame and I need to cut a slot on the inside of the curves. I've made a compass jig for the router and cut the curves out but seem to have reached the limits of my ability/experience.

I don't think I can do it freehand with the router without screwing up the inside face. Might be able to use the jig if I can hold the piece securely enough but I can't clamp it without fouling the jig.

The obvious suggestion is to use a rebate instead but I can't do this due to the design. Any suggestions gratefully received.

 

[pinenot]

Can you post an image...pinenot

 

[Dave54]

If you are trying to do what I think you are, then what about a bearing guided slot cutter. Like this Axminster one.
http://www.axminster.co.uk/axcaliber-2-wing-slotting-router-cutters
You need an arbor to go with it, available on the same site.

If it's a one off you could do it by hand, by marking the slot quite deeply with a marking gauge, and removing the waste carefully with a chisel, and or hand router (not a power tool) if you have one

Best to be clear in your mind how you are going to make something before you start.

 

[ntb]

My first attempt. at uploading an album image.

I think the slot cutter is probably the way to go but I'm not sure about how to clamp the work piece nor whether a slot cutter can take it all out in one pass?

Best to be clear in your mind how you are going to make something before you start.

Totally agree but part of the reason I'm doing this is to learn how to do it and if version 1 is a failure it will be classed as a prototype and another attempt will follow.[/quote]

 

[ntb]

Not sure what I've done with the picture but if you right click on it and select view image it will load. That's the first practice piece on the jig. Cutter wasn't long enough hence the burn marks.

 

[Dave54]

Either cut the inner curve, then the slot, and then the outer curve. or screw the workpiece to something you can hold from behind. Making sure of course that the cutter won't contact the screws.