Frame assembly jigs: Walter t. Kelley vs brushy mountain

[Intheswamp]

Thanks, Cleo!! I think I can knock together one of these. Matter of fact I've got a super that came to me with the shelf hanger rabbet and the handle cut upside down on one of the sides that I can use for this. I'm using all 8-frame mediums so I'll have to cut the box down in size but it shouldn't be too big of an issue.

Thanks again for the pictures, they help me understand your design greatly!

Take care,
Ed

[Ross]

I know this is not either of those, but I built this one with minimal tools and it works great (www.myoldtools.com) click on beekeeping page.

If you don't have the skills or tools to cut the slots, you can drill one inch holes and use one inch round dowels for the rods. Packing tape or wax will keep the glue from sticking to your rods.

[Cleo C. Hogan Jr]

The one I posted requires no special skills or tools. It can be built with a hand saw. You simply nail the pieces of wood on the top and bottom of the super, (along the sides and front/rear). You can use any width of wood for the spacer and the width. (see photo).

I also have a single frame jig that I like when I am using a crown staple gun and no glue. I will try to get photos in the next few days and post. It is faster than the multiple frame jig, if you are not using glue and nails.( I recommend glue if you are using nails). I assemble most of mine with 1 1/2 inch staples and I don't use glue any more when I assemble frames. With 1 1/2 inch crown staples, you are not going to pull them apart.

cchoganjr

[taydeko]

I really like yours, Cleo. Very Simple. I have a similar one that would be a little harder. I just cut 5/16" dadoes in the sides of a shallow super I made and have a 1/4 inch piece of wood to slide in that holds the sides. You could cut the dado with a circular saw or a hand saw if necessary. Not quite as simple as yours, but I like it and it cost me some scrap wood and about 15 minutes.

Ted

[ryandebny]

The kelley new style use to be great. I've used them for years. Now they redesigned them so they are easier to manufacture. They didn't mention this before I bought 1000 of them. Problem is they don't fit as tight, and the new groove has left a hole that is perfect for a hive beetle to hide in.
Brushy mt here I come.