How to Cut Perfect Dovetails with Tape
How painter's tape can help you cut the perfect dovetails
Synopsis: Learn how ordinary blue painter’s tape can help you cut tight-fitting dovetails every time. Michael Pekovich’s method has been tested on novice woodworkers and it works remarkably well. Just lay a strip of blue tape across the end grain and scribe the joint. Peel away the waste areas, and use the tape as a guide for sawing and paring. Not only does it make layout lines easier to see, but it also serves as a guide for your saw and chisel, ensuring accurate dovetails.
A while back, I was making a tea box out of wenge, which is almost as black as ebony. Chalk it up to old eyes, but for the life of me, I couldn’t see my knife lines. I tried a brighter light and stronger reading glasses, but they didn’t help. Finally, I laid a strip of blue tape across the end grain and…
Start your 14-day FREE trial to continue reading this story.
Plus, access more than 1,900 in-depth articles and more when you try membership.
Start Your Free Trial NowAlready a member? Log In
Comments
Does the blue tape trick work as well with pins first?
Log in or become a member to post a comment.
Sign up Log in