Picture frame miters

1239 Views 9 Replies 8 Participants Last post by vindaloo, Aug 6, 2017

Jim Gallo

Discussion Starter · Aug 5, 2017

Hi all, I am trying to acquire some info on making a spline in a frame to strengthen the miters. Actually it's not a picture frame, but a frame for the top of a box (with panel).

I am using a 5/32" slot cutter in my router table, and plan on using #10 biscuits.

I don't want to use splines, as I don't want the splines to show through the outside of the miters.

I am trying to figure out a SAFE and accurate way of slotting the miters for the biscuits, so that the biscuit is in the center of the miter both in thickness and length.

I am posting a pic of what I am trying to do.
Thanks for any guidance or direction.

Jim

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harrysin

· #2 · Aug 5, 2017 (Edited)

It's so much quicker and easier using a biscuit jointer which are available at quite modest prices. Using a slot cutter in the router table working with narrow pieces is very difficult to keep from rocking, however, if that is the only way then a block cut to 45° similar to that shown on the saw table in photo #13 would be a BIG help.

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Jim Gallo

Discussion Starter · #3 · Aug 5, 2017

Thanks Harry

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DesertRatTom

· #4 · Aug 5, 2017

Bisquit cutter makes it easy. If I were going to use a slot cutter, I'd make a 45 degree jig to clamp against the table so I could slide the frame toward the cutter, using the edge of the fence opening as a stop.

On my frames, I usually assemble first, then put the frame into an L-shaped spline jig, and use a 1/8th inch, flat tooth blade to cut a slot for the spline. My splines are generally some sort of exotic wood that makes a nice contrast. I often use purplewood. I also do a lap miter from time to time, which gives you about the same glue surface as a biscuit but also provides for a rebate for the canvas stretcher.

Biscuits make a very clean, modern looking frame. That's a nice looking piece of work.

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hawkeye10

· #5 · Aug 5, 2017

I don't know how good they are but Harbor Freight has a biscuit plate jointer for $65 plus you can get a 20% off coupon. Just remember this tool may not be very good. Maybe someone who has expedience with them will chime in.

https://www.harborfreight.com/4-in-biscuit-plate-joiner-68987.html

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Herb Stoops

· #6 · Aug 5, 2017

Using your set up on the router table, You might try a zero clearance insert in the fence so that the only thing showing is your cutter,not open gap.
Then set up an angle stop the width of your frame material on each side the same as your picture shows. Then slide the material slowly into the cutter holding it down firmly to the table. Turn it over to do the other end.

You might make the stops as thick as your material and put a piece on top to hold the frame material down to the table when pushing it into the cutter.
Herb

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jg2259

· #7 · Aug 5, 2017

Thank you everyone. I don't think I will invest in a biscuit cutter, as most of my joining is done with the Dowelmax. However I did use your recommendations and the slots came out perfect using the angled guides.

Thanks again!!!

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vindaloo

· #8 · Aug 6, 2017

Make a simple jig

The outside two pieces are fixed and guide the larger squarish piece towards the fence. Clamp your project stock between the to 45 degree pieces, and slide towards the fence and cutter. Definately repeatable for height. Can be made out of scrap laying around the shop.

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