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I did modify the original plans by making this fixture to be used specifically
with my Black & Decker Workmate (a GREAT little shop aid). I use biscuits allot. Let me
say that again, I really use biscuits allot. So, this is a
great, simple fixture which greatly increases the speed and accuracy of using
your biscuit joiner. Currently I own both a DeWalt DW682 biscuit joiner
and a Craftsman detail (or mini) biscuit joiner. I use both quite a bit
and this fixture is especially helpful with the craftsman tool. I found
the plans for this unit in Kim Stack's wonderful book, The Biscuit Joiner
Book, available from popular woodworking books. Since these plans are
copyrighted you'll just have to go out and get Jim's book, but don't worry it's
well worth the money .
I did modify the original plans by making this fixture to be used specifically
with my Black & Decker Workmate (a GREAT little shop aid).
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This is the basic desk of the fixture. I have yet to purchase another pair of 300 lb. hold down clamps that will be affixed to the right for holding down pieces that need a slot cut into the end of a stile. The 3/4" thick piece of white melamine was purchased at Home Depot for a whopping $2.00 from the scrap bin. It made a strong, sturdy surface for this fixture. |
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Here you can see the basic idea of the jig. It hold the workpiece in place with the clamps while the biscuit joiner rides on the surface of the fixture without the need for using the fence. This works for 3/4" material on the DeWalt and 1/2" material on the Craftsman. For other thickness, I use the biscuit joiners fence. |
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The miter aid is held in place by two of the clamps. The biscuit joiner rests against that 45° piece while the workpiece is clamps into position with the other two clamps (not yet purchased). |
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Here you can see my modification to the original plan. I added a simple box below the work surface. This is what the workmate uses to grasp in order to hold the entire fixture in place while in use. The box is glued and screwed (effortlessly thanks to a pair of Jet Joining clamps!) Then the box is screwed to the work surface. That way I can always remove the box if I change my method of operation and no longer need the box. |
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Here's the fixture set into the jaws of the workmate. The workmate also puts the work surface at a height that isn't too tall or too short for comfort. Also, I can easily pick the entire thing up and move it out of the way without needed to disassemble it. |