Issue 538
Issue 538
Make ‘Em or Buy ‘Em?
I love to build jigs and fixtures to help my woodworking be more accurate and efficient. There is something very satisfying in coming up with a jig that solves a tough woodworking challenge. At the same time, my shop is replete with “store-bought” jigs.
So, why do I sometimes decide to buy a crosscut sled rather than make one? What is the trigger?
On one hand, sometimes it is a function of time. I want to get a project done ASAP, so buying a nicely manufactured jig cuts down my time in the shop. Other times, I confess it is the allure of the shiny new object. And sometimes, the store-bought item is just better than something I can come up with. The systems from both Micro Jig and Microfence come to mind.
So how about you? Where do you come down on when to buy and when to build? The question bears examining.
Rob Johnstone, Woodworker’s Journal
Today's Woodworker
-
Woodworkers Compete on Offerman and Poehler’s “Making It” Show
Two young woodworkers are among the contestants in “Making It,” a crafting competition show hosted by Nick Offerman and Amy Poehler, which premieres tonight.
What's In Store
-
Milwaukee M18FUEL™ Jig Saw
Cordless 18-volt D-handle jigsaw offers higher sustained blade speed than comparable corded saws for smoother cutting performance in woods and metal.
-
Snap-Lock Insert Rings
Five more aluminum insert ring options expand the range of router bit diameters you can use with Rockler’s ProLift Router Lift.
Q & A
-
Is Toning My Best Solution?
What stain and topcoat do I need to match these two finishes? Is toning the right approach here, or should I try some other technique?
Reader's Project Gallery
-
Custom Shop Counters
This reader created three custom counters for a sweets shop in his native Greece. He’s included a link to a step-by-step video to demonstrate his construction.
Feedback
-
New Experiences (aka New Tools)
A reader shares his new learning experiences in woodworking: a result of new tool purchases.
More on the Web
-
How to Rout Aluminum
You may think of your router as a tool only for woodworking, but Chris Marshall explains how you can use it for metal pieces as well. He shows the jig he used to set up the cut and explains the bit and router setup to make the cuts.
