Shouldered Dovetail Tenon Jig – How to Use
This page contains usage information for this shouldered dovetail mortise and tenon jig. If you’ve already purchased one, thank you! If not, we hope this page is helpful for you.
This router jig allows you to create perfectly sized tapered dovetail mortise and tenon joints with shoulders/a housing. These joints can be used for joists, joining beams, and other 90 degree connections. The 3 degree taper and housing make for an incredibly strong connection.
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The smaller mortise jig allows you to set it inside of a housing and route the exact shape of the dovetail.
This style of large dovetail joint is commonly used to build timber frame pergolas and pavilions. Now you can use the same joinery as the big timber framing companies without a CNC router!
Learn more about this jig and see how to use it, step by step, in this YouTube video: https://youtu.be/OFvMmdaymng
If you have any questions about using the jig after watching the video, please send us a message on Etsy or on Facebook.
This dovetail tenon jig is designed for use with hand routers.
The tenon jig is adjustable to four different positions. You can create tenons that are up to 6″ long and 2.25″ wide at the top. The jig is optimized for 3″ and wider stock.
The tenons are tapered at a 3 degree angle.
The jig is fully supported when screwed into the work piece to prevent the router from tipping over. Please don’t skip this step – always screw the jig in and make sure to hold the router flat to the jig to prevent damage to the jig.
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 vidoe.
This jig requires using a 1.5″ dovetail router bit with these specifications.
This is another option for a compatible router bit with the same specs that we’ve also tested.
For both router bits, please make sure you select the 1-1/2″ option because multiple sizes are listed.
- Size - Cutting diameter: 1-1/2"; shank diameter: 1/2"; cutting depth: 1-1/6"; total length: 2-5/9"; 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 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.
