How to Make Tapered Cuts on a Table Saw for Long Pieces of Wood

Table saws are capable of making a variety of cuts.

You can use a table saw to make tapered cuts for wooden table legs and a variety of other furniture frame pieces. You can buy a tapered saw jig for foolproof cuts. But if you can't afford the tapered jig or simply wish to tackle the task yourself, there is a method using plywood that allows you to safely and effectively make a tapered cut on a long piece of wood.

Things You'll Need

• Wax crayon or wood marker
• Straightedge
• Double-sided carpet tape
• Plywood
• Push block
• Safety goggles

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Instructions

1. Draw a line in the desired angle on the long piece of wood, using a straightedge and a wax crayon or wood marker.

2. Fasten the marked piece of wood, face up, to a piece of plywood using double-sided carpet tape. Cover the entire bottom of the wood piece with the tape, keeping only the area to be cut clear, to ensure that the wood piece is securely fastened to the plywood.

3. Set the fence on the table saw to measure the width of the plywood.

4. Lay the taper marks on the straight edge of the plywood and push the wood piece through the table saw using a push block for safety. Make sure to wear safety goggles to protect your eyes.

References

• Pro Woodworking Tips: Table Saw Taper
• Woodworking Tips: Table Saw Taper Jig