Jigs & Guides

Jigs and guides improve accuracy and repeatability in drilling, routing and cutting operations.  Examples include dowel jigs, dovetail jigs, circle‑cutting guides, tapering jigs and crosscut sleds.  They help you produce professional results consistently.

What are jigs and guides used for?
Jigs and guides are accessories that help control the movement of tools, ensuring precision and repeatability in tasks like drilling, cutting, or routing. They make complex or repetitive operations faster, safer, and more accurate.

Do I need to buy jigs, or can I make my own?
Both options work. Many woodworkers and metalworkers build custom jigs for specific tasks, but ready-made commercial jigs offer versatility and are often adjustable, making them useful for a wide range of applications.

What’s the difference between a jig and a guide?
A jig holds the workpiece and directs the tool (e.g., a dowel jig or dovetail jig), while a guide controls the tool’s path directly (e.g., a straightedge guide for a circular saw). Together, they improve accuracy and consistency.