2x Dovetail Jig – How to Use
This post includes affiliate links, which means I may earn a commission on purchases made at no additional cost to you.
This post is a look at how to use the tapered dovetail jig for 2x stock from this Etsy listing.
This router jig allows you to create perfectly sized tapered dovetail mortise and tenon joints on any 2 by lumber. These joints can be used for joists, 2 by furniture, shelves, tables, benches, table tops, and many more projects.
This style of dovetail joint is commonly used to build timber frame pergolas and pavilions. Now you can use the same joinery to build with 2 by lumber. No screws, glue, or nails necessary!
This jig includes pieces to use on either store 2x material or rough sawn lumber/the size of your choice. Simply select and use the appropriate index piece for the tenon.
For store 2x material, use the index piece with two prongs to hold it in place. For rough sawn and other lumber sizes, secure the flat, no prong piece in place.
Watch the video on how to use thix 2x dovetail jig here.
If you have any questions about using the jig after watching the video, please send us a message on Etsy or on Facebook.
The mortise jig creates a pocket matched exactly to the tenon created. Use the scale on the back to match to the tenon. You may need to give the end grain of the tenon a quick “zip” with a small power planer to get a perfect fit, as shown in the video.
This jig requires using this 1 1/8″ dovetail router bit. This is one option we’ve used extensively. Other brands of 1/2″ x 1 1/8″ dovetail router bits should also work.
- Size - Cutting diameter: 1-1/8"; shank diameter: 1/2"; cutting depth: 1-1/8"; total length: 2-4/5"; dovetail angle: 14 degree
- Material - Made of premium tungsten carbide, the router bit provides high hardness and strength, good wear resistance, heat resistance for...
- Feature - Designed to create the interlocking "tails" and "pins" of a dovetail joint, providing strength, durability, and aesthetic appeal. Dovetail...
You will also need this specific bearing.
- Bearing Type: Bottom Mounted, Inner Diameter: 1/2”, Outer Diameter: 3/4”
- Replace or repair the damaged or lost router bit bearings.
- Contains bearings, set screws and allen wrench to fix any manufacturer's bits at a very affordable price.
This dovetail tenon jig is designed for use with hand routers.
The tenon jig is adjustable to 8 different positions with 1/2″ increments between each. You can create tenons that are 7.5″ tall from a single 2 by piece of lumber. If needed, shim the jig for the desired depth.
The tenons are tapered at a 1 degree angle.
This dovetail router jig is made using PETG, which is a durable and UV stable material. However, it should not be exposed to excessive heat otherwise plastic deformation may occur. In other words, please don’t leave it on your truck dash in summer!
You should also allow the router bit and bearing to cool down between cuts to prevent melting the jig.
Happy routing!
Again, pease send us a message on Etsy or on Facebook if you have any questions.
