Hinge mortises with a simple jig
A basic MDF template makes it easy to install cabinet hinges
Synopsis: When it comes to installing butt hinges on a cabinet, this template design by Craig Thibodeau is much simpler and more reliable than cutting the mortises freehand and chiseling them square. The template allows you to rout hinge mortises in the door and cabinet and be confident they are in the right place with perfect alignment every time. Thibodeau makes the template from MDF on the tablesaw.
In the past, I routed butt-hinge mortises freehand and chiseled them square one at a time. Though I had success with the method, it was time-consuming, and I frequently ended up with some slight misalignment between the door and the cabinet mortises. I’ve since come up with a better way to rout hinge mortises. I use my tablesaw to make a simple MDF template that I then use to rout the mortises in both the door and cabinet. With the template, little…
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