In FWW #301, Doug Stowe demonstrated an excellent table-saw sled for cutting spline slots in mitered boxes. Unlike other sleds, Stowe’s is guided by miter-slot bars so it doesn’t need to be held against the rip fence in use. This gives you one less thing to manage when using it.
I wanted my sled to work for mitered frames as well as boxes, so I made the adjustable fence larger and added a push block that presses the frame against the fence without risking my fingers. The tall fence and push block keep skinny frames stable and cuts accurate.
I made a couple of other improvements as well. To make the T-track less prone to denting, which tends to jam the T-bolt, I replaced Stowe’s routed track with a metal one. And I added a large handle to keep my hand away from the blade.
The updated sled works wonderfully on all sorts of mitered projects. Thanks to Mr. Stowe for the inspiration.
Sign up for eletters today and get the latest techniques and how-to from Fine Woodworking, plus special offers.