Tip #68
Compound Cuts On A Bandsaw
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Fig. 2

The Cabriole Leg
A common--but lovely-- application for this technique is the cabriole let. This S-shaped leg was first used by French cabinet makers in the eighteenth century and has been a standard item in the furniture industry since then.

To make a cabriole leg, you first have to develop a pattern. These legs can be long or short, sturdy of delicate. The only requirement is that the S first curve outward, then back in, and end in a "foot". Cut your first cabriole leg out of scrap stock to make sure your pattern gives you what you want.

Next, decide how you want to attach the leg to the furniture. If you use a mortise or a rabbet, these should be cut before you begin the band saw cuts. This will insure that all legs line up properly.

Trace your pattern on wood stock and make your initial cuts. Tape the pieces back together and rotate the stock 90-degrees. Flip the pattern over and trace it again (see drawing). Make your final cuts, unwrap the tape, and sand smooth. If you wish, you can round the leg by shaving it carefully with a

drawknife.

Fig. 3 Click image for larger view.

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