This simple little jig is extremely useful for routing blind spline slots in spline-mitered frames. Nail or glue together scraps of the frame lumber into the configuration shown in the sketch. The workpiece should fit accurately into the slot, where it can be pinched in place with a clamp. A plunge router is desirable, both for ease of starting the cut and because it has a built-in fence for centering the slot. But I imagine that with a little courage a regular router would do you could add an integral fence to the jig itself by tacking on more scraps, shimmed with cardboard where necessary. I scribed marks on the jig to show where to start and stop.

Jim Small, Newville, Pa.

Fine Woodworking Magazine, February 1984 No. 44

Fine Woodworking Recommended Products

Hedgehog featherboards

The Hedgehog's unique spiral shape and single knob make it easy to set up and fast to adjust.

Buy at Amazon

Double Sided Tape

A thin woven core makes XFasten tape strong yet not too thick (0.008 in.), and helps it hold powerfully without being difficult to peel off.

Buy at Amazon

Leigh Super 18 Jig

This jig is a value-oriented alternative to the Leigh D4R, but its template system is just as excellent.

Buy at Amazon Buy at Woodcraft