How Do You Cut Fret Slots on a Table Saw?

Cutting fret slots is a crucial step in building a guitar, and it can be done in several ways. One of the most efficient methods is using a table saw. This tutorial will guide you through the process of cutting fret slots on a table saw.

First things first, you need to have the right tools and materials for this job. You’ll need a table saw with a fine-toothed blade, a fret slotting jig, some wood for the fretboard, and measuring tools such as a ruler or caliper.

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Step 1: Preparing the Jig
The first thing you need to do is prepare your fret slotting jig. This jig will help you align and cut the fret slots accurately.

You can either buy one or make your own using MDF or plywood. Ensure that the jig has two guide rails that are parallel to each other and spaced according to your desired scale length.

Step 2: Preparing the Fretboard
Next, prepare your fretboard by marking out where you want your frets to be placed. Measure and mark out each slot’s exact position using your ruler or caliper.

Step 3: Setting up the Table Saw
Now it’s time to set up your table saw for cutting the slots. Make sure that your blade is sharp and has enough teeth per inch (TPI) for cutting cleanly through hardwoods like ebony or rosewood.

Step 4: Cutting Fret Slots
Place your prepared jig on top of the table saw and clamp it down securely. Take your marked-out fretboard and position it within the guide rails of the jig so that it sits flush against them.

Slowly lower the blade onto your board, ensuring that you cut along each marked-out line as accurately as possible. Use feather boards if necessary to keep everything in place while cutting.

Repeat this step until all fret slots are cut. Remember to adjust the saw blade height accordingly for each fret slot to ensure the correct depth is achieved.

Step 5: Cleaning up
Once you have finished cutting all your fret slots, use a small file or sandpaper to clean up any rough edges or burrs on the slots. Be careful not to widen or deepen the slots while doing this.

And there you have it – your very own fretboard with perfectly cut fret slots! This technique can also be used for cutting binding channels and other precise cuts in woodworking.

Conclusion
Cutting fret slots on a table saw may seem daunting at first, but with the right tools and techniques, it can be done quickly and accurately. Remember to take your time and always prioritize safety when using power tools. Happy building!

4 Related Question Answers Found

How Do You Cut Fret Slots?

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