How to Cut Splines for Joints
Splines are wooden inserts used to join two pieces of wood together. The spine is glued in place inside a channel or "dado" in one piece of wood. Another piece of wood with a corresponding dado is slid into place with the spline extending into both pieces, forming the common bond. Splines can be used to join cabinet panels, doors, countertops or anywhere long joints are needed. Spines can be cut on any table saw.
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Instructions
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Measure the depth of the spline with a tape measure by turning the wood on its edge so you can access the end of the dado. The depth of the spline is also the length of the knife or blade that is used to cut the spline. Measure across the end of the dado cut and double it. For example; if your dado measures 3/4 inch, the width of your spline will be 1 1/2 inches.
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Measure the thickness of the dado. For example; 1/4-inch splines used when working with 3/4-inch plywood or lumber. This means that a 1/4-inch wide blade or knife was used to make the dado. Therefore, the size of the spline would be 1/4-inch thick, by 1 1/2 inches wide. The width of the complete spline would be double the depth, or twice the length of the knife or blade used to create the spline. Splines are cut at random length and then cut down according to the application.
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Measure and lock the table saw fence at 1 1/2 inches from the blade. Place a push stick on the right side of the fence within arm's reach.
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Place the plywood behind the blade. Turn on the saw. Begin pushing the plywood across the blade with both hands until you get to within 6 inches of the blade. Pick up the push stick and finish pushing the spline strip across and off the other side of the table saw.
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Tips & Warnings
The measurements here are for examples. Although most splines are 1/4 inch thick, they can be any size depending on the wood you are joining. The 36-inch measurement is typical for cabinet splines. If you need longer or shorter, use appropriate-length plywood.
Do a test fit before adding glue to your spline.
Always wear safety glasses when working with wood.
References
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