How to Use a Tapering Jig

Woodworking project plans sometimes call for tapered parts. For the project to come out correctly, the uniform cutting of tapers for the project is crucial. Rather than trying to lay out each taper by hand, most woodworkers use some type of tapering jig. Tapering jigs come in a variety of styles, the most common being a hinged tapering jig. Cutting identical tapers with a tapering jig is child's play once the jig has been set up.

Things You'll Need

• Hinged tapering jig
• Table saw
• Lumber
• Pencil

Instructions

1. Tighten the screw on the rear plate hinge of the jig. Do not over-tighten. Over-tightening may strip the screw. Place the rear plate against the table saw fence.

2. Adjust the angle of the taper by spreading the front plate until achieving the desired angle. Tighten the front plate screw on the hinge plate snugly.

3. Mark with a pencil the spot where the taper begins on the piece of lumber.

4. Place the piece of lumber against the front plate. Rest the end of the lumber in the stop at the bottom of the front plate. Ensure that the lumber is placed against the stop with the pencil mark facing up and away from the stop.

5. Adjust the table saw fence, following the table saw manufacturer's instructions, while holding the pencil mark close to the table saw blade to align the pencil mark with the blade. Lock the table saw fence in place.

6. Plug the table saw in and turn the on/off switch on the table saw to the "on" position. Feed the lumber through the saw blade using the handle on the taper jig to push the wood through while holding the wood in place with a push stick.

Tips & Warnings

• Some tapering jigs have a built-in angle gauge. Others will require the use of a protractor to set the angle of the taper.

• Ensure that the table saw blade does not hit the stop on the taper jig.

• Always read and follow the instructions that come with power tools.

• Always use safety glasses when operating power tools.