If you have a woodworking workshop, it is likely that you will need a woodworking jig. Jigs are useful for repetitive tasks in many woodworking projects, and help in making complex tasks quicker and easier. Woodworking jigs are readily available from hardware stores, and are usually very cheap. It is even more cost effective to build your own from scrap wood, and can be beneficial because you can create a jig suited to your specific needs and taste. Depending on the type and amount of projects you like to do, you will need a variety of different jigs.

Different Types of Woodworking Jigs

Dovetail Jigs: Dovetail jigs are useful for building dovetail joints accurately. Dovetail jigs can be purchased at relatively inexpensive prices. You could even build your own dovetail jig using templates from the internet or stores that sell woodworking supplies. If sourced successfully, many of these templates will allow you to make up to twelve different jig sizes.

If you are going to make your own jigs, you may want to purchase a dovetail bit for your router and a dovetail saw. Good templates will assist you in making variably spaced or fixed dovetails for a variety of projects including drawers, cabinets and small boxes.

A dovetail saw is a good purchase, because it need not only be used for cutting dovetails, but can also cut other fine joints for other projects. Dovetail saws have thinner blades which allow for greater accuracy. It is important to purchase good quality tools for a more professional result on your projects. When buying a dovetail saw, look for about fourteen to seventeen points per inch.

Dowel Jigs: A dowel jig is used for making good quality dowels. If you are going to be using thick timber, it is best to use a self-centering jig for better accuracy. There are a variety of sizes available, from a quarter to one half inch. There are complete kits available from woodworking supply shops that include the dowel jig and several hundred dowels in a variety of sizes.

Kreg Jig: Kreg jigs are ideal for cabinet making. Naturally, you will want the movement of the drawers to be smooth, so perfectly positioned slides are imperative. The use of kreg jigs is extremely convenient as you will not need to measure and mark the spaces for the drawer slides. This will make it easier to mount metal drawer slides. Kreg jigs can be used for center, bottom or extension mounted drawers. A kreg jig is an inexpensive, yet extremely versatile piece of equipment.

Building Your Own Woodworking Jigs:

If you build your own woodworking jigs, you will save a lot of money in supplies. You can use inexpensive pieces of material, and scrap wood for making your own jigs. Because you will only be using the jig for one project, you do not want to spend too much money on materials. If you are planning on reusing your jigs, it is advisable to build with a stronger and more durable hardwood. It is easy to source instructions on making your own jigs in woodworking books or magazines. Instructions on making your own jig are also readily available on the internet, and can be printed and stored for future reference.