Contents
Why is it good to use splines with a miter joint?
Enter the spline. Inserting a strip of wood, plywood, or other material (such as hardboard), into slots cut on the miter’s opposing faces reinforces the joint and helps keep parts aligned during assembly.
Is miter joint strong?
Miter joints are weak, glue is strong. If those joints are going to be taking any lateral forces you need to reinforce them with something else. If those are the sides of your caddy, it’s probably fine.
What is a spline jig used for?
It can be used to align the edges, or to reinforce mitered corners. It can also add visual interest when a contrasting wood is used in an exposed spline. The spline jig I made is for strengthening mitered corners on picture frames and small boxes.
Why do you need a spline on a miter?
On its own, an end grain-to-end grain glue joint is inherently weak. It needs backup. Enter the spline. Inserting a strip of wood, plywood, or other material (such as hardboard), into slots cut on the miter’s opposing faces reinforces the joint and helps keep parts aligned during assembly.
What’s the best way to line up miter joints?
After cutting your picture frame pieces with their 45 degree miters. Line up one end with the triangle so that the end is flush with the table. To keep this from slipping, clamp the board to the upper part of the jig and cut out a slot.
What’s the best way to strengthen a miter?
Miters are not the strongest joints, but we use them all the time for joining picture frames together. One method for strengthening this connection is to add a spline, a thin sliver of wood into a slot where the two miters join together.
Do you need a blade to cut a spline?
Spline slots can be cut with either a blade or bit, but a flat-bottomed cut is essential for a clean-looking joint. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.