Projects WITHOUT kreg jig - NEWBIE

Submitted by tarajeane on Fri, 07/29/2011 - 08:41

So i'm a newbie here, but I can use (and own) basic tools, including a mitre saw. However, I don't own a kreg jig. What projects could I try as 'starter' projects that don't require a kreg jig and won't fall apart if I don't use one? i'm thinking about trying the $10 shelves, but also interested in some sort of outdoor table, since thats something I NEED anyway.

claydowling

Sun, 07/31/2011 - 10:54

All of these projects could be built with traditional joinery, or even dowel tenons. Traditional joinery is more involved, and you'll need to pick up some hand tools you might not have, but it's all doable.

That said, a kreg jig is really nice. There are kits in varying sizes, so they don't have to cost much.

frank_shic

Sun, 07/31/2011 - 22:08

just run screws or glue it and nail it. the kreg jig helps more with the cosmetic appearance more than anything else. if you were really motivated, you could learn how to cut dovetails by hand and then just dovetail all your joints and just glue them together. it only took me a few weeks of practice to get it down but you'd have to invest in a decent set of chisels, learn how to saw straight, get a marking knife and above all: learn how to sharpen! very gratifying though when you finally get it down...

Guest (not verified)

Fri, 02/10/2012 - 16:05

Thanks for this thread! I also do not have a Kreg jig, but do want to try some projects before I make more investments into tools that I may not use often.

claydowling

Fri, 02/10/2012 - 18:21

Tables are a really great place to start working on projects without a kreg jig. Screwing cleats can attach the top to the frame, and the frame is easily attached to the legs with dowel tenons.

The thing not to do is screw or nail into end grain. There's no holding strength there, and it will pull out.