Course Title: Introduction to Leigh Dovetail Jig

Course Number: Course 304

Instructor: Lowell Sundermann

Course Description:

An introductory course to using the Leigh Dovetail Jig. It will consist of three, two hour sessions taken over consecutive weeks.

Skills and knowledge to be gained:

• The course aims to make the student conversant with the Leigh Jig along with its safe usage in keeping with good workshop practice.
• Correct setting up of the jig to create Through Dovetails.
• Safe settings for both speed and type of cutter bits used in conjunction with the jig.
• Understanding of the selection of suitable, (and limitations on), materials for dovetailed projects.
• Layout and use of templates as appropriate.
• Incorporation of suitable joints for drawers and other applications.
• Preparation of materials in readiness of joint making stage.
• Suggestions of more advanced or alternative forms of joint making which are also possible on this machine.

Machines and tools to be used:

Emphasis for the course will be on the Leigh Jig located in the workshop. Other equipment may also be used in the preparation of materials prior to the creation of chosen joints.

Learning process/procedure:

The learning process will be a hands-on experience. Participants will receive demonstrations of how various setups to the Leigh Jig are safely and correctly used. The demonstrations will be followed by participants having time to practice using the machines themselves. A course project will be completed by each student.

Prerequisite skills; what level of competency/expertise is required for safe, successful participation:

This is an introductory course to the Leigh Jig. However the course requires that the student be already competent and safe in the handling and the setting up of a hand held router. Based on the experience of the students, safety and proper operation of routers will be reviewed but not taught. However, a safe working knowledge of such machines as the jointer, planner and table saw are a suggested prior requirement for participation on this course.

Project/product to be made:

The main intent of the class is familiarization with the equipment being introduced, not the completion of any particular project. However, there will be included in the course a specific project designed to exercise the skills learnt during the sessions. To that extent, the objective will be to build some boxes out of poplar using through dovetail joints.

Duration of course:

Three, two-hour sessions taken over 3 consecutive weeks.

Cost of materials beyond the basic $10 fee:

There will be an additional charge of $10 to cover project materials.

Before signing up for any of the VWC courses, would you please try to check with your calendar to make sure that you will be free and able to attend for all of the sessions for that class and not just some of them. Many Thanks.

Link to dates for classes