Make an Inset Frieze or Panel Pattern with a Shop-Built Template
Builder Gary Striegler explains how he devised this router jig to create a panel pattern on a mantel.
This jig was kind of invented out of necessity one of those times I said, “Oh I’m sure I could do that,” and it turned out I had to figure out a way I could do that. Client showed me a mantle and said I want this pattern carved into the mantel and so I came up with this jig to create that pattern. It’s really pretty simple. It’s just some holes that are drilled, 2 pieces of poplar, they have blocks in between and I just tack some quarter round in there. What happens, this bushing on the router just follows those surfaces around and you create this really interesting frieze pattern using a vinegared bit. What I’m going to do is tack it in place with some headless pins because I sure don’t want it moving once I start cutting and then we will just start routing. You do have to stay focused and make sure you’re keeping good contact. You might not ever need to make this pattern, but with this principle you can make almost any pattern you want to. Different sized holes, different sized rectangles. It’s really just limited by your imagination.
More Must-Have Router Jigs:
- Mortise Door Hardware With This Custom Guide
- Make any Inset Frieze or Panel Pattern with a Shop-Built Template
- Make Complex S-Curves With This Flexible Template
- Mill Arched Trim With a Homemade Compass
- Cut Clean, Straight Dadoes With this Simple Guide
Read Gary’s article Job-Site Router Jigs from issue #280
