Workpiece Holder Ensures Accurate Dovetail Transfer

I got the hang of sawing and chiseling dovetails by hand but found I was struggling with another essential part of the process: transferring the layout of the tails I had cut on one board to the mating pins board. This marking jig solved the problem for me. It lines up the two parts perfectly and holds them securely as I transfer the layout with a marking knife. And it’s much quicker and easier than the usual method: clamping one part in a vise and the other on the benchtop.

My marking assistant is nothing more than a flat, rectangular piece of sheet goods (I used a melamine cupboard door) with three straight, square boards attached to it that are inset evenly from the edge of the panel. I used 2×4 lumber for those boards, jointing and planing the pieces flat, straight, and square. These pieces could be made from wider stock to make it easier for the jig to handle wider pieces. The 2x4s team up with the panel to align parts quickly and accurately. I secure them with quick-release clamps.

—Neil McKay, St. Albert, Alberta, Canada

Fine Woodworking Recommended Products

Marking knife: Hock Double-Bevel Violin Knife, 3/4 in.

This heavy, double-beveled knife stays on track in all directions, and works just fine without adding a handle.

MicroJig Matchfit dovetail clamps

These unique clamps have angled tips that hold templates and fences in place without getting in the way.

Veritas Standard Wheel Marking Gauge

The gauge is very easy to set, since it has an internal O-ring to keep light but constant friction on the rod. A very comfortable gauge to use.