When making a pattern, jig, or fixture, here are a few things to consider:
1.Use a material that will smoothly follow the rub collar or fence.
2.Make the fixture stable. Use proven methods and materials.
3.Fasten hand holds for operator comfort and safety.
4.Secure your workpiece on three sides with toggle clamps or fasten the workpiece to the fixture with wood screws. Make sure they do not protrude through the workpiece.
5.Ensure that clamps and hidden screws do not come into contact with the cutter.
6.Design your fixture so that all cutting occurs underneath the workpiece.
7.Always consider cutting circle and rub collar diameter for correct depth of cut when designing your pattern.
8.Make sure the workpiece rests flat on the table, not on the fixture.
9.Remember, there is tremendous cutting force on the workpiece. Fixtures must be solid, stable and the workpiece must be firmly secured. See Figure 25.
Figure 25
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