Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
With a router-table dovetail jig set up and your stock prepared, WOOD Magazine’s method describes cutting four through-dovetail joints in about 12 minutes. That is an approximate, method-specific cutting time—not a promise for a complete project, including stock preparation, jig setup, test cuts, sanding, and glue-up.
What the 12-minute method involves
The process cuts the tails first, then uses them to mark and position the pins. It calls for a router table, a compatible dovetail jig, a dovetail bit for the tails, and a straight bit for the pins. The companion demonstration runs 14:18; that is the video’s runtime, not the time required to make a finished box. WOOD Magazine’s article, updated in 2023, and its video page, updated in 2024, show the method.
Prepare the boards and jig
Mark parts and faces
Start with square-ended stock. Mark the mating pieces and the faces that must stay oriented toward one another; these marks help prevent flipping a board or pairing the wrong ends. The tailboard and pinboard may be different thicknesses, but opposing boards in a drawer or box should be equal in thickness.
Check the jig and make a test setup
Follow the instructions for your particular jig. The cited article says its named jig examples work in broadly similar ways, but guidance differs: some systems use guide bushings, while others use bearing-guided bits. Jigs other than the article’s Katie Jig example require attaching the template to a backer board and calibrating it once for a tight fit. The backer board also supports the workpiece and helps resist tear-out.
#1 Best Overall
- Router Table-Friendly: Designed specifically for router tables, the Leigh RTJ400 dovetail guide jig slides smoothly across the table surface - eliminating awkward handheld routing and delivering stable, repeatable joinery for fine woodworking projects
- One Jig Joinery: Cut through dovetails, half-blind dovetails, half-pitch dovetails, angled dovetails, end-to-end splices, and box joints (finger joints) using a single precision CNC-machined aluminum template - no extra router jigs required
- Precision Router Guide: Leigh’s elliptical guide bushing ensures perfect joint fit without trial-and-error adjustments; simply center the board, guide the jig across the router table, and achieve clean, professional dovetail and finger joints every time
- Built For Woodworking: Aircraft-grade aluminum construction, cam-action speed clamps, and accurate depth gauges make this jig ideal for cabinetry, drawer boxes, furniture builds, and shop-made projects using wood routers and router table accessories
- What’s Included: Complete RTJ400 router dovetail jig kit with template, clamps, cutters, guide bushing, setup gauges, blockers, sidestop, and an illustrated user guide - everything needed to start routing precision dovetail and box joints right away
Confirm that the router, collet, bit shank, and jig are compatible before setup. The article’s examples include 1/4-inch and 1/2-inch shanks, as well as an 8 mm example; those are examples, not universal requirements. Its July 2023 list names the Keller #1500 Journeyman, MLCS #6412 and #8712, Leigh #R9 Plus, and Katie Jig #KJ1-12000001. These references do not establish present-day availability or compatibility. Check current maker documentation before choosing a jig or cutter.
Cut the tails, then the pins
- Set up the tailboard. Scribe centerlines on the jig fingers, mark the board thickness, center the tailboard in the jig, and clamp it securely. Use a stopblock so repeated pieces register in the same position.
- Set the dovetail bit. The article places the bit about 1/32 inch above the thickness line; the video shows a range of roughly 1/64 to 1/32 inch. Because the guidance differs, do not treat either measurement as a universal setting. Use the selected jig’s instructions and verify the setup with scrap.
- Rout the tails. With the workpiece clamped and the setup checked, cut the tail profile using the dovetail bit.
- Transfer the layout. Mark the tail locations on the mating pinboard. Align the pinboard’s center mark with the jig, then secure it in position.
- Rout the pins. Change to the compatible straight bit and cut the pin profile according to the jig instructions.
- Test and adjust. Fit a sample joint before cutting every project piece. If the alignment is off, the article describes shifting the pinboard to correct it; make adjustments in small increments and test again.
Fit the joint and finish the box
Dry-fit the joint and tap it together carefully rather than forcing it. Check the fit before glue-up. For a box or drawer, the video advises disassembling the dry-fitted assembly for inside sanding and for cutting any bottom groove; complete those operations before gluing the joints.
Rank #2
- ADJUSTABLE DOVETAIL JIG: The 1-piece aluminum layout ensures both ends of the dovetail joint match up evenly, and the integrated clamping design accommodates any board width. Our machine is ideal for indoor and outdoor projects and household repairs.
- JOINT BOX: Our set includes 1 dovetail joiner tool and a single 14-degree, 1/2" dovetail router bit for use with a hand table or table router. The user's manual gives beginners and professionals a guide for easy operation when using the parts.
- WOOD MARKER: Professionals and novices can make half-blind or through dovetail joints, including box joints. It has various applications like repairing, making it a handy and necessary tool to own among your other hand and power accessories.
- DOVETAIL JIGS FOR WOODWORKING: Complete a professional carpentry fixture with our professional-quality saw. You can easily adjust the micro jig interface to create loose or tight joints, and the control knobs promise comfortable and accurate use.
- GENERAL TOOLS: We're a recognized leader in developing specialized precision tools dedicated to delivering exceptional customer service. We encourage artisans and DIYers to use our machinery to work smarter, measure better, and repair productively.
Choosing compatible equipment
When comparing router-table dovetail jigs, check how each guides the cutter, which bits and shank sizes it accepts, how easily it allows setup and bit changes, whether fit is adjustable, and whether it is designed for a router table or handheld router. Workpiece capacity is also model-specific; confirm it in the current manufacturer’s specifications. The named products above are examples from the 2023 article, not endorsements or confirmation of current stock.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- CREATE FLAWLESS DOVETAIL JOINTS: This 12-inch dovetail jig with a half-blind dovetail and through dovetail template makes it easier than ever to craft those elegant dovetail joints that elevate your woodworking projects. Create stunning drawers, boxes, and small furniture pieces with precision and speed
- COMPLETE KIT: This comprehensive kit includes everything you need to get started: (1) template for half-blind, rabbeted half-blind, and sliding dovetails; (1) template for through dovetails and box joints; (1) 13/32" straight bit; (1) 17/32" dovetail bit; (2) dedicated bushing guides; (1) allen wrench
- EASY SETUP & ADJUSTMENT: The templates are engraved with alignment lines for easy setup, and the built-in router bit depth adjustment knob allows for quick and accurate depth setting
- VERSATILE & SECURE: Accommodates stock from 1/4" to 1-1/8" thick and up to 12" wide. The quick-clamp system ensures secure clamping of both pin and tail boards
- WORKBENCH OR PORTABLE USE: Designed for both stationary and portable use, with mounting holes for secure attachment to a workbench or a custom mobile base. The L-shaped base also supports table clamp mounting for a temporary, flexible setup.
Rank #4
- For Half-Blind Dovetail Joints: This dovetail jig comes with a 1/2" half-blind template, making it ideal for crafting small furniture items like drawers. Create beautiful, precise half-blind dovetail joints quickly and efficiently. With all the accessories included, you can jump straight into your project right out of the box.
- 1/2" Dovetail Router Bits: Looking to create strong and stylish dovetail joints? These two 1/2" router bits of dovetail jig are just what you need. Dovetail joints made with these bits are built to last, thanks to their unique shape that keeps your pieces tightly connected. No more worrying about your joints coming apart—these bits help you get the job done right every time.
- Easy Operation: No fuss, no muss—just push the handle of the dove tail jig, and the eccentric wheel design does the rest, clamping your wood securely in place. Say goodbye to shifting and hello to precision! Plus, this dovetail router jig handles thick wood—up to 1.57 inches on top and 1.42 inches on the side.
- 12" Processing Width: Whether you're crafting a large piece or something smaller, the dovetail jig with wide processing width (5.5"-12" on top and 5.9"-11" on the side) has you covered, greatly increasing the dove tailing jig's versatility. More width means more possibilities for your woodworking projects.
- Sturdy and Durable: Made from quality aluminum alloy with an electrostatic spray finish, this dove tailing jig is corrosion and rust-resistant and not easily deformed or damaged, making it ideal for various woodcraft production and processing. The precise tooth spacing ensures that every cut is clean and accurate—because details matter!
Rank #3
- Box Joint Jig: Make a strong, tight-fitting box joint router bit that is great for small to medium-sized boxes! This woodworking tool makes the perfect accessory for your router table.
- Interchangeable Indexing Keys: Our router jig uses precision-machined solid brass indexing keys to ensure uniform finger spacing. The keys are included for three finger widths: ¼”, ⅜” & ½”. With improvements in design, these router accessories can be swapped and can be stored in slots on the sled.
- Smooth Sliding Sled: The smooth-sliding router table sled features long ''skis'' that keep it square to the router bit and tabs on the bottom that stop the sled at the end of the cut. Lock it into the miter slot of your router table with our comfortable Easy-to-Grip knobs and you're ready to route.
- MDF Platform: Place the MDF fence on your box joint jig to control tear out and apply router bit lubricant on the melamine-coated low-friction MDF platform for easy sliding and enhancing durability. The ergonomic knobs lock the platform into a ¾” miter slot.
- What’s Included: Our router finger joint jig includes the following essential woodwork tools - 1 Melamine-coated MDF platform, 2 Soft-grip knobs with miter track hardware, 1 Glass-filled nylon sled, 1 sacrificial fence face, a ¼” brass indexing key, a ⅜” brass indexing key, a ½” brass indexing key, and an instruction manual, all aimed to help you perfect your box joint routing.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
