Thin Strip Ripping Jig For Woodworking Tools – A Guide To Safe

Let’s be honest. We’ve all been there. You need a perfect, 1/8-inch strip of oak for edge banding, so you nudge your table saw’s rip fence just a hair’s breadth from the blade. You hold your breath, use two push sticks, and hope for the best as the wood screams through.

It’s a tense, nerve-wracking cut. That tiny, unsupported offcut has nowhere to go but into the spinning teeth of the blade, where it can be violently launched back at you. This is one of the most common ways woodworkers get hurt.

But what if you could make that same cut with complete confidence, perfect accuracy, and zero drama? What if you could produce dozens of identical, paper-thin strips without breaking a sweat? That’s the magic of a thin strip ripping jig for woodworking tools, a simple yet transformative addition to your workshop.

In this complete guide, we’ll show you exactly why this jig is a non-negotiable for safe and precise work. We’ll cover how to build one from scrap, how to use it like a pro, and the common pitfalls to avoid. Let’s get you cutting safely.

What Exactly is a Thin Strip Ripping Jig and Why Do You Need One?

At its heart, a thin strip ripping jig is a sled or stop block that rides in your table saw’s miter slot. Its job is to register the end of your workpiece, allowing you to make cuts on the outboard (left) side of the blade.

Instead of setting your fence 1/8″ from the blade, you set your fence plus the width of your board from the blade. The jig sets the final dimension of the strip being cut off. It’s a simple but brilliant reversal of the standard process.

The Core Safety Benefit: Preventing Kickback

The number one reason to use this jig is safety. When you rip a thin piece of wood the conventional way, the strip gets trapped between the spinning blade and the stationary rip fence.

Heat and friction build up instantly. The blade’s teeth can grab the strip, lift it, and fire it back toward the operator at over 100 miles per hour. It’s a terrifying and dangerous event.

With a thin strip jig, the piece you are keeping is between the blade and the fence. The thin strip you are cutting off is on the other side of the blade, where it has plenty of room to fall away harmlessly. This simple change in setup almost completely eliminates the primary cause of kickback in this operation.

The Precision Advantage: Perfect, Repeatable Strips

Beyond safety, this jig is the key to incredible accuracy. Once you lock the jig in place, every single strip you cut will be the exact same thickness. There’s no measuring and re-measuring between cuts.

This is invaluable for tasks like:

• Creating custom, book-matched edge banding from the same board as your project.
• Laminating thin strips together for bentwood projects or curved details.
• Cutting delicate inlay material or stringing.
• Making small, consistent trim pieces for models or detailed furniture.

The Ultimate Thin Strip Ripping Jig for Woodworking Tools Guide: Building Your Own

While you can buy commercial versions, one of the best parts of woodworking is making your own tools. This project is perfect for an afternoon in the shop and uses common materials you likely have lying around. This is a great way to build a sustainable thin strip ripping jig for woodworking tools using offcuts.

Materials & Tools You’ll Need

This is a “scrap wood” project, so don’t overthink the materials. The goal is function, not beauty.

• Base: A piece of 1/2″ or 3/4″ plywood or MDF, roughly 8″ wide by 12″ long.
• Runner: A strip of stable hardwood (like maple or oak) sized to fit snugly in your miter slot. Alternatively, you can use a commercial T-track bar.
• Hardware: One 1/4″-20 T-bolt, one washer, and one 1/4″-20 star knob or wing nut.
• Adhesive: Wood glue (like Titebond II) and a few CA (super) glue drops for quick positioning.
• Tools: Table saw, drill or drill press, and basic measuring tools.

Step-by-Step Building Instructions

Follow these steps to build a simple, effective jig. Remember to wear your safety glasses!

1. Create the Miter Slot Runner: Cut your hardwood strip so it fits into the miter slot with no side-to-side slop but slides freely. It should sit just below the surface of the table saw.
2. Attach the Runner to the Base: Place the runner in the miter slot. Apply a few dabs of CA glue on top of it. Carefully place your plywood base on top, ensuring it’s square to the front of the saw. The CA glue will hold it in position temporarily.
3. Secure the Runner: Once the CA glue sets, carefully lift the base and runner assembly off the saw. Drill a few countersunk holes through the base and into the runner. Add wood glue and secure it permanently with screws.
4. Create the Stop Block: The “stop” is what your workpiece will register against. On the front edge of the jig, create a small vertical face. A simple way is to glue a small, square block of wood to the leading edge of the sled.
5. Cut a Blade Kerf: Place the jig back on the saw. Turn the saw on and very slowly and carefully raise the blade through the jig’s base. Raise it just high enough for your typical work. This kerf shows you exactly where the cut will happen.
6. Add the Adjustment Mechanism: Drill a hole through the base for your T-bolt and add the knob. This isn’t strictly necessary for a basic jig, but it makes fine-tuning easier. Most woodworkers find a simple sled without adjustment is perfectly sufficient.

You’ve now created a valuable shop appliance that will last for years. This simple build is a core part of our thin strip ripping jig for woodworking tools guide to getting started.

Best Practices: How to Use Your Jig Safely and Effectively

Building the jig is half the battle; using it correctly is what unlocks its full potential. Following these thin strip ripping jig for woodworking tools best practices is crucial for safety and accuracy.

Initial Setup and Calibration

This setup process becomes second nature after a few tries.

1. Position the Workpiece: Place the board you want to cut against your rip fence.
2. Set the Jig: Slide your new jig into the miter slot until its stop block touches the end of your workpiece. Lock the jig in place if it has a locking mechanism.
3. Set the Cut Width: Now, move the entire rip fence (with the workpiece still against it) to the left. The distance you move it determines the thickness of your strip. For example, to cut a 1/4″ strip, move the fence until the distance between the blade and the fence is 1/4″.
4. Remove the Jig: Carefully slide the jig back out of the way before you make your cut. Its only job was to help you set the fence position.

Making the Cut: A Step-by-Step Process

With the fence locked in its new position, you’re ready to cut.

1. Ensure your blade guard and riving knife are in place.
2. Turn on the saw and let it get to full speed.
3. Using a quality push stick (we recommend the GRR-RIPPER style), guide your workpiece through the blade, keeping it firmly against the rip fence.
4. The thin strip will be cut from the left side of the board and will fall away safely.
5. After the cut is complete, turn off the saw and wait for the blade to stop before retrieving your workpiece or the freshly cut strip.

To make another identical strip, simply place your board back against the fence, slide the jig up to touch it, lock the fence, remove the jig, and repeat the cut. It’s that simple.

Benefits of a Thin Strip Ripping Jig for Woodworking Tools

Still on the fence? Let’s quickly recap the incredible benefits of thin strip ripping jig for woodworking tools. This simple device is a true game-changer.

• Unmatched Safety: It is the single safest method for ripping thin stock on a table saw. It moves the dangerous “trapped offcut” scenario to the safe side of the blade.
• Perfect Repeatability: Once set, you can produce dozens or even hundreds of strips that are dimensionally identical. This is impossible to achieve reliably by eye.
• Incredible Efficiency: The setup is fast and foolproof. You’ll spend less time measuring and more time making perfect parts for your projects.
• Material Savings: Turn valuable offcuts and scrap pieces into usable material like edge banding and inlays. This is a core principle for any eco-friendly thin strip ripping jig for woodworking tools approach, reducing waste in the workshop.
• Increased Confidence: It transforms a high-stress operation into a calm, controlled, and even enjoyable process. Confidence leads to better, more creative work.

Common Problems with Thin Strip Ripping Jig for Woodworking Tools (and How to Solve Them)

Even with a great jig, you might run into a few issues. Here are some common problems with thin strip ripping jig for woodworking tools and their simple solutions.

Problem: The Jig Wiggles in the Miter Slot

Solution: A loose runner is the enemy of accuracy. If your hardwood runner has worn down, make a new one. For a premium solution, consider installing an adjustable miter bar that can be tightened to remove any slop.

Problem: Inconsistent Strip Thickness

Solution: This is usually caused by inconsistent pressure. Make sure you are keeping the workpiece firmly against the rip fence throughout the entire cut. Using a quality push block that applies both downward and inward pressure helps immensely. Also, double-check that your fence is locking down parallel to the blade.

Problem: Burn Marks on the Cut Edge

Solution: Burning is caused by heat and friction. The first culprit is a dull or dirty blade. Clean your blade with a pitch and resin remover. If it’s still burning, it’s time for a sharpening. Second, maintain a steady, consistent feed rate—don’t stop or hesitate mid-cut.

A Simple Thin Strip Ripping Jig for Woodworking Tools Care Guide

Your jig is a tool, and like any tool, it benefits from a little upkeep. Following a basic thin strip ripping jig for woodworking tools care guide will ensure it serves you well for years.

First, keep it clean. Sawdust can build up and affect accuracy. A quick brush-off or blast of compressed air after use is all it needs.

Second, apply a coat of paste wax to the bottom of the sled and the edges of the runner. This reduces friction and allows it to glide effortlessly in the miter slot, leading to smoother, more accurate setups.

Finally, periodically check any hardware. If you used screws to attach the runner, make sure they remain tight. A loose runner can ruin a precise setup.

Frequently Asked Questions About Thin Strip Ripping Jigs

Can I buy a thin strip ripping jig instead of making one?

Absolutely! Several companies make excellent commercial versions. Brands like Rockler, Kreg, and MicroJig offer well-designed jigs with features like micro-adjustments and integrated measuring scales. They are a great option if you prefer not to build your own.

What’s the thinnest strip I can safely cut with a jig?

With a well-tuned saw, a sharp blade, and a zero-clearance insert, you can safely cut strips as thin as 1/16″ or even thinner. The key is the stability of your setup and the quality of your blade. Always use a push stick and never rush the process.

Is this jig better than using a featherboard?

They serve different but complementary purposes. A featherboard is designed to hold your workpiece securely against the fence or table. A thin strip jig is a setup tool used to position the fence for a safe cut. For maximum safety and accuracy, you can and should use both a featherboard and a thin strip jig together.

Do I need a special blade for cutting thin strips?

While any sharp blade will work, a dedicated ripping blade or a high-tooth-count combination blade will give you the cleanest results. A thin-kerf blade is an excellent choice as it removes less material, reducing strain on the saw and resulting in a smoother finish on your delicate strips.

Building and using a thin strip ripping jig is one of those “aha!” moments in a woodworker’s journey. It’s a project that immediately pays for itself in safety, accuracy, and peace of mind.

It turns a dangerous task into a routine operation and opens up new possibilities for adding delicate, professional details to your work. Grab some scrap from the bin this weekend, build this simple jig, and elevate your craft.

Stay safe in the shop, and happy building!

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Jim Boslice

Jim Boslice is a power tool enthusiast who tests, reviews, and shares practical guides to help DIYers and professionals choose the right tools for every project.

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