Fold-Down Dovetail Jig Station: Save Space in Your Workshop
If you build a lot of cabinets and drawers, a dovetail jig is one of those tools you'll reach for again and again. The trouble is finding a convenient place to keep it when you're not using it.
Leaving the jig on your workbench takes up valuable space. But putting it away after every project means dragging it out and setting it up all over again.
My solution is this simple fold-down dovetail jig station. It mounts to the shop wall, keeps the jig ready to use, and folds out of the way when you're finished.
Best of all, it's easy to build from plywood and a few pieces of hardware.
A Wall-Mounted Workstation for Your Dovetail Jig
The station consists of three basic plywood components: a wall bracket, a folding support, and a jig platform.
The wall bracket provides a secure mounting point, while the hinged platform holds the dovetail jig at a comfortable working height.
A folding support braces the platform when it's open.
When the jig isn't needed, the support and platform fold against the wall, freeing up valuable floor and bench space.
It's a practical setup for a small workshop or any shop where you want to keep frequently used tools organized and ready to go.
Build the Fold-Down Dovetail Jig Platform
Start by sizing the plywood platform to fit your dovetail jig.
I made mine long enough to accommodate the jig while leaving extra room to set down the router.
A small hole in the platform provides clearance for the router bit when the router is resting on the top.
This keeps the bit from contacting the plywood and gives you a convenient place to set the router between cuts.
The platform attaches to the wall bracket with a hinge block and continuous hinge.
The folding support is attached to the bracket with another hinge, allowing it to swing into position beneath the platform.
The simple arrangement provides a sturdy work surface that can be folded away without removing the dovetail jig.
Mount the Dovetail Jig Station at a Comfortable Height
Before mounting the station, decide on a comfortable working height.
You want the dovetail jig positioned so you can see the workpiece clearly and operate the router without bending over.
Securely fasten the wall bracket to suitable wall framing or structural backing. Because the station supports both the jig and the forces involved in routing, the mounting hardware and folding support need to be strong enough for the job.
Once the bracket is installed, attach the hinged platform and folding support.
Check that the support is fully engaged and the platform is stable before mounting the dovetail jig.
Finally, secure the jig to the platform according to its mounting requirements.
Keep Your Dovetail Jig Ready to Use
The real advantage of this station is convenience.
When you're ready to cut dovetails for a drawer, simply swing the platform into position, engage the folding support, and get to work.
There's no need to clear space on your workbench or find a temporary place to clamp the jig.
And when the job is finished, the station folds neatly against the wall.
It's a simple, space-saving shop upgrade that makes using a dovetail jig easier and keeps your workbench clear for other tasks.
