Old but favorite project...

[DesertRatTom]

One of my favorite projects ever was this adjustable small part miter jig. It has stops for 90 and 45 degree fixed angles, but you could set it for any angle you want in between. Uses a japanese saw to make the cut, so the ends are baby behind smooth. It is from a ShopNotes project and uses about three strips of eight inch wide BB ply. You cut a circle out of one of those with a band saw, and use the cutoff to nest the circle part. Add some blocks to hold the saw in alignment. and you need a small fence to hold the strip in place while cutting.

I have used it often to add to the appearance of picture frames. Even HD has dozens of half to three quarter inch wide strips with patterns carved in them that can be inlaid in material of any sort, hard, soft woods, even ply. Cutting them with a regular push saw often splinters the ends, vs a pull saw. This jig does the job perfectly every time. This is a commercial picture, my jig is identical, but not as well lit.

pull saw miter box.jpg

Here are some of the patterns I've found that work well into any project that needs something extra, something special. But you can cut and mill your own strips if you wish.

Decorative wood samples.jpg

And here is a frame for my wife's painting of a Crane standing in water. You can see how the trim adds to the total effect.

Crane picture frame.jpg

[OutoftheWoodwork]

I really need to learn how to make jigs... I've got a guy at work who's called the "Jig Master." One day, maybe

[Cherryville Chuck]

That's a clever home made version of the Stanley 20-800. They used to be really common. Still sold toady but with the invention of the powered miter saw not nearly as common as when I was young.

[DesertRatTom]

That's a clever home made version of the Stanley 20-800. They used to be really common. Still sold toady but with the invention of the powered miter saw not nearly as common as when I was young.

When I was a teenager, I apprenticed to an old time finish carpenter, and he had a very experienced hand type miter saw that had a steel guide you could set at any angle. The later versions of that saw seem pretty junky by comparison. I always enjoy working with this little jig. I make a shallow groove in the frame material same width as the trim. Cut the angles and fit the pieces in one side or end at a time. Perfect fit.

BTW, having some improvement health wise. And it warmed up enough to enjoy the shop again. Hope all of you are doing fine.

[old55]

Glad your feeling a bit better Tom.