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How to cut slots in 2 pieces that are not straight on outsides.

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2.8K views 4 replies 3 participants last post by  Midnight Shadow  
M
#1 ·
I have to cut two slots, one each on two pieces of wood. The slots or slot on each piece runs straight up and down. However, the pieces that I am cutting the slots into are about 5 inches wide for about 12 inches and then the pieces extend out to about 16 incheswide and I still need to put the slot down into the wider section.

My thinking is to cut the slots first before I cut the outside forms. This way I can use a guide on both pieces of plywood and the slots should line up on each piece. then I cut the outside shapes of the pieces so they line up also. Am I thinking this through correctly or is there some other way to get the slots to line up when I have the outsides cut to match?

Thanks for your help. I know this is a 101 question but honestly i am just starting to use my router and I am slow at figuring things out with it.

I would post a picture but I don't understand how to do that either. The sides are going to be for a side bender for acoustic guitar side bender molds as I am starting to build acoustic guitars.
Midnight Shadow
 
#2 ·
Hello Chuck, if you've got a set of template guides I've got the perfect jig for your situation(also works best with a plunge router). I call it Bj's dado jig, it is one of my favorites. All you need is to mark a center line and clamp or tape the jig to the stock. I have used this before to route slots in odd shaped stock. In Bobs post you will see it's made with a 1" slot, but you can use 2 separate boards. Just keep the spacing at 1" (or matched to your largest guide). I made mine from left over laminate floor planks. Here is the link.

http://www.routerforums.com/jigs-fixtures/2711-dado-jig-plunge-router.html
 
#4 ·
Here are two more methods, the first is a simple way when only one or two slots are involved, the size or shape of the material doesn't matter, just clamp a straight piece on either side of the router. A sacrificial bench or board is required if the slot is going all the way through. The second method is this easy to make jig.
 

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