Tapered Table Legs

[Pamela Anders]

First of all, thank you for the add!

In my lifetime, I've built from scratch: a play structure, two patio covers, a large deck, and a couple of sheds.  The only power tools I've ever owned are a circular saw and a drill. I rented a few tools when I built the deck.

Now I want to try my hand at building a dining room table.  I found a couple of plans that I like, but they call for tapered 4x4 legs.  This is something that I have never done before.

Can it be done with a circular saw using the Kreg Accu-Cut?

All the articles and videos I've found seem to suggest that it requires a table saw with a jig.  I'm trying to avoid spending several hundred dollars on a table saw just for this one project.  However, I am crazy enough to do it if I become obsessed :)

Any advice would be appreciated!

Pam

[justin waldron]

There are a few thing that come to mind, the first being safety, I own a track saw, but there isn't enough support with a 4x4 to keep the track stable, you could maybe put them side by side, you won't make that cut in one pass with a circular saw or table saw.  My solution, although archaic, by a good hand saw, make your cut but leave the line, if you have a friend with a jointer you can clean the edge in no time or with a good hand plane.  I think this is the safest and most economical way to achieve what you're looking for. 

[Pamela Anders]

That makes senses, thanks.

I ended up purchasing a table saw, which led to purchasing a whole bunch of other stuff.  The money is just flying out of my wallet!  :-D

Pam

[justin waldron]

No problem, a bandsaw would have worked too.  Thought about that last night.

Welcome to woodworking!  Money and tools!! 

[Glen S]

Definitely the bandsaw. Ask around. Woodworkers are a gracious bunch & I'm sure you can find someone to help you.

[KregRep]

We have a video that shows how to create tapers on a miter saw. View it here: https://www.buildsomething.com/how-to/H06C1A136275B3B64/How-To-Crea...

[Anthony Saba]

I don't see why you can't use an extra piece of stock the same thickness as your project stock, space it alongside or attach it to your project stock with double sided tape, thus creating a footprint wide enough to support your accu-cut, and safely make your cut.

[Scott]

Welcome to world of wood-working, where $$'s usually have a 1 way relationship with your wallet! :)

As a new table saw owner, the first thing I recommend is to devise an out-feed table/platform.

Control and support the cut, all the way through and OUT the backside.

The second piece of advice is beat it into your head that your hands never go anywhere near the blade until you can count the teeth. And consider the space above the blade to be a 'no-fly zone'.

Be safe and enjoy making piles of sawdust :)