How To Cut Box Joints On A Table Saw? The Step-by-Step Guide

You can learn how to cut box joints on a table saw with practice and the right technique. All you need to do is follow a step-by-step guide. It begins with choosing the correct blade and using a box joint jig to cover the entire cutting process. By following these instructions, you can accurately cut joints for your woodworking project.

Box joints (also known as finger joints) are a strong and attractive way to join two pieces of wood at a right angle. They require a special jig that holds the workpiece at a precise angle while using a table saw to cut them. In this article, we will outline the entire process of how to cut box joints on a table saw.

Note: Also learn how to cut tapered legs with a table saw!

So let’s get started.

Step 1: Set Up The Workstation

The first step in cutting box joints is to choose the wood you will be using for your project. Once you have selected your wood, set up your workstation – you will need: 

• A table saw
• A box joint jig
• A miter gauge
• A push stick
• Safety tools

Do also set up the box joint blade on your saw, which has multiple teeth that cut square notches in the wood. Shift the height of the blade to be similar to the wood’s thickness. You may need to adjust the angle of your saw blade to ensure the notches are cut cleanly and precisely. Learn how to adjust a table saw here.

Step 2: Create and Set Up the Box Joint Jig

Now, you need to create the box joint jig that will hold your wood in place while you cut the notches. There are many different types of jigs available, but one common design involves using two pieces of wood cut to match the width of your saw blade. 

These pieces are then glued together at a 90-degree angle to create a box-shaped jig. The jig should be securely attached to your table saw’s miter gauge.

You can buy a premade jig for cutting box joints, which may be more convenient. But if you want to learn step-by-step, we suggest watching a video to understand how to use a box joint jig:

Step 3: How To Cut Box Joints On A Table Saw – The First Set of Notches

When you’ve correctly and safely placed your jig, you’ll have to begin with the first set of notches. Position the wood against the jig, making sure it is flush against the bottom and back of the jig. Use the miter gauge to push the wood through the blade, making the first cut. 

Repeat this process to create the first set of notches.

Note: Do remember that the blade matters a lot when cutting. Read more about the thickness of the table saw blade here.

Step 4: Move the Wood and Cut the Second Set of Notches

Once you have cut the first set of notches, you will need to move the wood to the other side of the jig to cut the second set of notches. You can repeat after flipping the wood, moving it to the side, and using the first sets of notches. Once you have the wood in place, use the miter gauge to make the second set of cuts.

Step 5: Repeat the Process

After you have cut the first set of notches and the second set of notches, you can repeat the process to create as many box joints as you need. Make sure to use a push stick to keep your fingers safe and to keep your cuts precise.

Step 6: Sand and Finish

Once you have cut all of your box joints, you can sand them so that they’re smooth and apply a finish to your project. This will give your box joints a polished look and protect them from wear and tear over time.

Step 7: Assemble the Box Joint

The joint should fit snugly, with the fingers extending just slightly past the outside face of the corresponding board. The fingers mustn’t be too tight.

Finally, use woodworking glue when you’re done cutting and want to begin assembling the joint into a workable piece. Clamp together the boards and make sure that a strong bond is formed between the wood pieces. Following the manufacturer’s instructions, allow the glue to dry completely. Then remove the clamps and sand any rough edges or excess glue.

And voila! You’ve got yourself successfully constructed box joints.

FAQs

How to cut box joints on a Table Saw in the best way?

The best way to cut box joints is with a table saw and a box joint jig. This provides precise and accurate cuts for strong and attractive joints. Of course, cutting box joints without a jig is possible, but it can be difficult to achieve the precision required for a strong joint.

A jig makes the process much easier and more accurate. Of course, you can learn more about box joints as well to make a more accurate decision.

What are some safety concerns when cutting box joints on a table saw?

Some of the safety concerns when cutting box joints on a table saw include kickback, blade contact, and flying debris. It’s essential you keep in mind safety equipment when facing these concerns.

Where can you use box joints?

Box joints are used to create strong and attractive corners in woodworking projects. These include boxes, drawers, cabinets, and frames. They also provide a mechanical interlock that prevents the joint from separating.

Of course, there exist other joints with similar functionality and beautiful outlooks. If you’re looking for a guide on different kinds, we recommend checking out the How-To for Rabbet Joints.

Conclusion

In conclusion, learning how to cut box joints on a table saw is an accessible and achievable process for anyone with basic woodworking skills.

It requires some planning, but if you follow the steps outlined in this article to determine the size of the box joint and set up the table saw correctly, with attention to safety rules and blade height and angle, it can be completed successfully. 

Once you have set up your equipment correctly, all that is left is to align the boards and cut their grooves using the same process – once for each piece. At the end of it all, regardless of your skill level or experience level, you will likely find success in cutting beautiful box joints on a table saw by following these steps.

Learn more table saw knowledge about “How high should a table saw be?”