Question on using a Kitchen Worktop Template/Jig...

[peterkonczak]

Hello all,

I recently tried to use a 'Forge Steel' Kitchen worktop jig from Screwfix to cut 2 Standard 90degree Female joints and the matching male & bolt holes.
The worktop was an Ikea one, laminated chipboard, that measured 620mm width. The problem I had was that when I came to fit the joints up, I found I was out by about 4 to 5mm and so had to take that much off the male end of the joint and then use a power sander to round off the now sharp angle to fit in the female end. I kind-of got there after a while but am confused as to why it was out? My initial conclusion was, I need more practice, but then isn't the point of a jig, which is pretty idiot proof, to guide you to a perfectly fitting joint?? My next conclusion, which is my question to you all is could it be because the width of the worktop was 620mm and I had to use the 616mm hole? Did this make me 'out' or wouldn't it matter??
Any enlightenment would be greatly appreciated as I'm pretty stumped!
Thanks,
Pete

 

[Symptoms]

I found I was out by about 4 to 5mm and so had to take that much off the male end of the joint

What do you mean by being 'out'? Too long, too short? Give us a bit more detail.

The alignment blocks/holes are provided to help set-up for 'standard' cuts, but often have to be dispensed with when things aren't square or for other odd reasons; so set-up has to be based on careful measurement & setting-out, then effective clamping.

You are right - practice/experience is 'God'. New/sharp cutter, 3 (or 4) passes to get through (never attempt in 1 go), beware of the laminate surface break-out so always cut into the post-formed edge (flip one of the w/ts) and exit at the rear edge.

 

[peterkonczak]

Hi Symptoms, by 'out' i mean, when i pushed the 2 worktops together i found that they did not fit snugly, there was a gap of about 4mm between them and so i had to take my sander to the rounded curve of the masons joint to sightly change/soften the angle and reduce the gap.....does that make sense!? basically what i think i'm trying to say is the 2 curved sections of the joints weren't the same...?