Tool Time Tuesday - File it Flush - Miter Cutting Jig
Well, it is a day late, but here it is nonetheless.
This Tool Time Tuesday is a tool that I have come to depend on, especially when I need something filed ultra flush, either at a 90 degree angle or even a 45 degree angle. It is called a Miter Cutting Vice/Jig. When I first heard about them, it somewhat piqued my interest, but when I found out the cost, I figured I could use something else... and I did. But I have since bought one of these tools and I use it every time I do a tube set piece. You might recall from the TTT post on Tube Cutting Jigs , that you don't always end up with a straight cut. Once I have cut my tube, I move it into this handy little tool and file it flush.
There are a number of these available. They vary in size and by price. The one I am using here is the least expensive and works great for me. If you need help locating this tool, just let me know. I may even have one on hand here at my studio.
The tool itself isn't large at all. I will show other uses for this tool in later editions of Tool Time Tuesday, but today we will focus on that little tube in the right hand corner.
This shot shows the 45 Degree slot. You would insert your metal (sheet, wire, tube, etc) into the slot and twist the top knobs down to secure your metal in place.
This picture shows the slot I will be using for this exercise, the 90 degree slot.
I have just cut a piece of tubing so I can set a 5mm round stone (part of next weeks Tool Time Tuesday.) The cut is a nice one, however, it is cut at a slight angle. I need both sides to be perfectly flush.
I have now inserted the tubing and lined it up with the face of the jig. The tubing sticks out just slightly further than the face of the tool. This is important, because this is the surface that will be filed away. Once the tubing is in place, I can secure it by twisting the knobs down to hold the tube. You don't have to do it very hard, I just need it enough that when I start to file the tubing will not be pushed back below the surface.
In this image, you can see a little bit better that the face of the tube is slightly above the surface of the tool.
Using my file, I will stroke the tubing until the high spots have been removed and it is perfectly flush with the face of the jig. The jig is made with hardened steel and the file will not scratch, mar or dent the jig.
I file in all directions to be sure that I got all of the high spots. Once I have finished one side, I do the other. This way I can ensure that the no matter which side I drill a seat for my stone, it will be even.
I now have a perfectly level tube ready to be soldered to my piece.
Next week I am going to talk about a great set of tools I use when making tube settings. They are called bezel setting punches.
Like what you read here? Why not subscribe to the blogand youwon't miss a post. Just enter your email address in the box that sayssubscribein the upper left corner. You will be notified at that email addressevery timea new blog entry is made.
If you enjoy these tutorials and tips, please spread the word to others who might enjoy them as well.
This Tool Time Tuesday is a tool that I have come to depend on, especially when I need something filed ultra flush, either at a 90 degree angle or even a 45 degree angle. It is called a Miter Cutting Vice/Jig. When I first heard about them, it somewhat piqued my interest, but when I found out the cost, I figured I could use something else... and I did. But I have since bought one of these tools and I use it every time I do a tube set piece. You might recall from the TTT post on Tube Cutting Jigs , that you don't always end up with a straight cut. Once I have cut my tube, I move it into this handy little tool and file it flush.
There are a number of these available. They vary in size and by price. The one I am using here is the least expensive and works great for me. If you need help locating this tool, just let me know. I may even have one on hand here at my studio.
The tool itself isn't large at all. I will show other uses for this tool in later editions of Tool Time Tuesday, but today we will focus on that little tube in the right hand corner.
This shot shows the 45 Degree slot. You would insert your metal (sheet, wire, tube, etc) into the slot and twist the top knobs down to secure your metal in place.
This picture shows the slot I will be using for this exercise, the 90 degree slot.
I have just cut a piece of tubing so I can set a 5mm round stone (part of next weeks Tool Time Tuesday.) The cut is a nice one, however, it is cut at a slight angle. I need both sides to be perfectly flush.
I have now inserted the tubing and lined it up with the face of the jig. The tubing sticks out just slightly further than the face of the tool. This is important, because this is the surface that will be filed away. Once the tubing is in place, I can secure it by twisting the knobs down to hold the tube. You don't have to do it very hard, I just need it enough that when I start to file the tubing will not be pushed back below the surface.
In this image, you can see a little bit better that the face of the tube is slightly above the surface of the tool.
Using my file, I will stroke the tubing until the high spots have been removed and it is perfectly flush with the face of the jig. The jig is made with hardened steel and the file will not scratch, mar or dent the jig.
I file in all directions to be sure that I got all of the high spots. Once I have finished one side, I do the other. This way I can ensure that the no matter which side I drill a seat for my stone, it will be even.
I now have a perfectly level tube ready to be soldered to my piece.
Next week I am going to talk about a great set of tools I use when making tube settings. They are called bezel setting punches.
Like what you read here? Why not subscribe to the blogand youwon't miss a post. Just enter your email address in the box that sayssubscribein the upper left corner. You will be notified at that email addressevery timea new blog entry is made.
If you enjoy these tutorials and tips, please spread the word to others who might enjoy them as well.
Posted by Melissa Muir at April 14, 2010 8:58 AM 
Categories: Tutorials, Tips and Tricks, Tool Time Tuesday
Categories: Tutorials, Tips and Tricks, Tool Time Tuesday
Melissa,
What a great little tool you have showcased. You said you might have another one in your studio. If so, would you let me know the cost of this little gem?
I have to thank you in advance for next week's TTT too! I have wanted to learn tube setting for a while now, but was discouraged by an instructor who feels it is too difficult and just not worth it. I was so disappointed! I wish I could come over and watch you do it in person.
I have enjoyed your TTT's with your clear close up pictures and detailed explanations. Keep up the great work!
Adele
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Terrific tool! There is a similar one at the supply place here, but they are charging $165. If yours is more reasonable and available, could you please let me know.
Many thanks,
Denny
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Hi Denny,
Yes, Mine is more than $100 cheaper than the $165. I am just waiting for them to come in. They have been on back order for a little while now. I will be calling them today and I can let you know if they have them in stock finally.
Melissa
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Can you tell me please, what kind of file you would recommend with this tool?
I am truely grateful for your posts, thank you very much!
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I am not sure that it really matters which file you use. I have used regular cheap bastard files from the hardware store and I have used the nice ones from Gorbet. The Miter vise is VERY HARD and my files don't even leave a mark on the surface. Hope that helps a little.
Melissa
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