How to Calculate the Settings for a Taper Attachment

Cutting a taper is the process of cutting an angled straight edge into a material where one end of the finished product is thicker than the other. To cut a taper, use a taper attachment, also known as a taper jig, on the tool with which you cut. A taper attachment holds the material in place and aligns it with the blade to cut the perfect angle. Taper attachments are used on lathes, table saws and other machines. Before making your cuts, calculate the angle you want to cut and adjust the taper attachment to the proper setting.

Pencil or marker
Straight edge tool or yard stick
Protractor or true-angle tool
Squaring tool
Adjustable wrench

Instructions

- 1
  Draw a cut line with a pencil or marker on the material which is to be cut. Measure the angle with a protractor or true-angle tool and use a straight edge tool or yard stick to keep the line straight.
- 2
  Extend the line down the sides of the material using a squaring tool to keep the line straight.
- 3
  Position the taper attachment or jig next to the cutting fence, which is the flat side wall located next to the blade. The edges of the taper attachment and cutting fence should touch.
- 4
  Push the material which is to be cut against the taper attachment. Hold the material in place with one of your hands.
- 5
  Loosen the nut on the taper attachment. If needed, use an adjustable wrench.
- 6
  Move the taper attachment until the cut line on the material which is to be cut aligns with the blade.
- 7
  Tighten the nut on the taper attachment.
- 8
  Power on the machine and cut along the line. The cut results in the correct taper.

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