Specialized Jigs and Templates for Building Multiple Houses

The jigs and templates described here will make it easier to produce multiple houses when working with large groups of children or adults. They will be available for purchase or rental at the Brown Family Environmental Center at Kenyon College.




Plexiglas templates (Figure 1) - these templates have pre-drilled holes for easily marking the location of holes. An awl is used to mark the holes You will need four templates one for the back, front, right and left sides

Figure 1. Templates

Mini -workbench with sides (Figure 2) - this jig helps support pieces when attaching the sides to the back, the sides to the floor, the door, and the roof supports . You will find it helpful to have two small pieces of wood 1 5/8" x 11 1/2" and 1 1/4" x 11 1/2" to serve as spacers.

Lumber for this jig should be 3/4" thick. Sizes given are actual finished size.

Base - 8" x 12"
Sides - 2" x 8"
Back - 2" x 13 1/2"
Bottom Cleat - 1" x 13"


Figure 2. Mini-workbench

Jig to attach roof (Figure 3)

To make this jig use 3/4" thick boards. Sizes given are actual finished size.

Base - 7 1/4" by 8 5/8"
Side - 2" x 7 1/4"
Back - 2 1/2" x 10 1/2"
Top of Sides - 1 1/2" x 7 1/4" - This piece fits on top of the sides and overlaps the base creating a channel that the roof can slide into.
Bottom cleat - 1" x 10 1/2"

When using this jig place the cleat against the edge of your work bench. Slide the roof under overhanging side pieces to hold it securely in place. Then position the box on top of the roof.


Figure 3. Jig to attach roof


BFEC *****Parts*****Assembly Page 1*****Assembly Page 2*****Bluebird Home****Edited 10-9-03