Box joints on wide, longish boards

[Phydeaux]

I want to build a blanket chest for my granddaughter as a wedding present. I want it to have a chance to become a family heirloom.

I've found a plan I believe I can handle except I'm not sure about how to do 5/8" wide box joints on a board about 15" wide and 38 inches long.

My Porter-Cable jig is limited to 1/2 inch box joints and 12" width.

I believe I understand how to make a relatively simple jig for my table saw and the cutting process. I'd go for a fairly tall fence for the miter gauge.

Is it reasonable to attempt such a process with a board that size? If not or I've missed a better way, I'd like suggestions.

[Steve N]

I want to build a blanket chest for my granddaughter as a wedding present. I want it to have a chance to become a family heirloom.

I've found a plan I believe I can handle except I'm not sure about how to do 5/8" wide box joints on a board about 15" wide and 38 inches long.

My Porter-Cable jig is limited to 1/2 inch box joints and 12" width.

I believe I understand how to make a relatively simple jig for my table saw and the cutting process. I'd go for a fairly tall fence for the miter gauge.

Is it reasonable to attempt such a process with a board that size? If not or I've missed a better way, I'd like suggestions.

Sent you a PM.

[MichaelMouse]

I want to build a blanket chest for my granddaughter as a wedding present. I want it to have a chance to become a family heirloom.

I've found a plan I believe I can handle except I'm not sure about how to do 5/8" wide box joints on a board about 15" wide and 38 inches long.

My Porter-Cable jig is limited to 1/2 inch box joints and 12" width.

I believe I understand how to make a relatively simple jig for my table saw and the cutting process. I'd go for a fairly tall fence for the miter gauge.

Is it reasonable to attempt such a process with a board that size? If not or I've missed a better way, I'd like suggestions.

Try this router jig. https://www.routerworkshop.com/boxjoints.html  Make to suit, and make your pusher "sled" leg and upright large enough to handle longer stock.  

No frustration from dado sets that won't cut a flat bottom, either!

[rwe2156]

Yeah, you can do it they way you're thinking.

[Steve N]

I think bringing the tool to a big board is smarter than trying to bring a big board to the tool. A fella could get hurt.

Was Bob able to give you any help?

[Cecil]

I want to build a blanket chest for my granddaughter as a wedding present. I want it to have a chance to become a family heirloom.

I've found a plan I believe I can handle except I'm not sure about how to do 5/8" wide box joints on a board about 15" wide and 38 inches long.

My Porter-Cable jig is limited to 1/2 inch box joints and 12" width.

I believe I understand how to make a relatively simple jig for my table saw and the cutting process. I'd go for a fairly tall fence for the miter gauge.

Is it reasonable to attempt such a process with a board that size? If not or I've missed a better way, I'd like suggestions.

Plans from the sponsor of these very forums!



I built one and use it a lot.  The fingers can be equally sized, or not.  I just need to ensure the minimum finger spacing is at least 1/2", since I am using a 1/2" top bearing bit.

Also, when I do a long piece, so I lay the jig on its side and put the work on top.  I have to use a spacer on the bench to prop up the opposite end of the board.

Plans here
https://www.woodsmithplans.com/plan/finger-joint-jig/

[Richard D.]

The box joint is more utilitarian and not appropriate for a nice blanket chest. You don't see nice antiques with box joints, always dovetails. I have used them on a nice toolbox but it doesn't sit in the bedroom.

[TucsonLawrence]

Maybe ask your local ww'ers club/guild if anyone has a Leigh or porter cable jig you can borrow?  I lent mine out recently and it came back with a new dovetail bit and a nice piece of madrona :
and more importantly I made a new woodworking friend)

[Steve N]

I think they make a very nice look on cases, and that most recipients wouldn't know the difference between DT's or Box Joints.





[attachment=5651]

[Phydeaux]

I think they make a very nice look on cases, and that most recipients wouldn't know the difference between DT's or Box Joints.

That's the chest I'm working on. I didn't get around to capturing a picture for here. Thanks, Steve N.