This is a cross post from WoodCentral, where there is a topic on starting the saw when dovetailing.


Most here are likely aware that I promote the use of blue tape in marking out tails, and a kerfing chisel for deepening the socket kerfs.


Blue tape makes it much easier to see the lines, as well as accuracy in sawing. Place the saw against the edge of the tape, and go for it. No need for "V" cuts


I have also written about blue tape to aid in registering the tail board against the pin board, which came out of compound dovetails at the time.


Deepened kerfs makes waste removal much easier.


Kerfing chisel: http://www.inthewoodshop.com/ShopMad...erfChisel.html


These three "tricks" add about 1-2 minutes to set up, but save several times this in accuracy, transfer effort, and waste removal.


I have just uploaded a short (8 minute) video I made in 2018 when dovetailing the compound drawer fronts for the Apothecary Chest.





Regards from Perth


Derek