![]() STEP 1: Select a suitable bit, set the depth, and position the router. Follow these steps to learn how to cut decorative edges into the target material with your router. How to Use a Router for Cutting Decorative EdgesĪ common use for routers is to cut decorative edges into a project to give it a more intricate finish. Do not bring the router bit into contact with the material until it has had enough time to speed up, otherwise the bit may kick back instead of cutting through.Set up a guide fence to make straight cuts in the material or use a trim guide for curved cuts.Connect the power and line up the router bit to make the initial cut. ![]() ![]() Clear the immediate area of any people or pets.Clamp the target material to prevent it from shifting while you work.Test the bits, attachments, clamps, and locking devices to ensure that they are properly tightened and secured.Make sure the set speed is suitable for the target material.Set the router bit depth to ensure that you don’t cut deeper into the material than intended.Select the appropriate router bit for the job by checking the type, shank strength, cutting length, cutting diameter, and sharpness of the bit.Disconnect the power and turn off the power switch before changing bits.Before using a new router, consult the owner’s manual to get a detailed breakdown of the parts and controls. You can also get small, 1.25hp routers for trim, or full-size 3hp routers if you feel the need for extra power. Typically, a 2 horsepower (hp) router is suitable for most DIY and home woodworking jobs. RELATED: The Best Router Lifts for Your Workshop Initial Setup and CalibrationĪn initial setup, inspection, and speed calibration is necessary before attempting to use a router. Replace worn-out parts, discard old bits, and make repairs as necessary to keep the tool in good condition. Regularly inspect, clean, and maintain the router to ensure that it functions properly while you work.Put on long pants, a long-sleeve shirt, closed-toe shoes, gloves, safety glasses, a dust mask, and consider using ear plugs or similar hearing protection. Make personal protection a priority when using a router.Make sure to disconnect the power to the router when changing bits, performing router maintenance, cleaning the tool, or mounting router attachments.This also helps to keep control of the tool if it becomes stuck in the material and kicks backs while in use. Keep a firm, two-hand on the router, especially when the bit first comes in contact with the material.Router Safety TipsĬonsider these key safety tips before picking up a router, so you can stay safe while you work. This SKIL router bundle includes a router table with built-in bit storage and a 10-amp fixed-base router tool for smooth, precise routing. Our Recommendation: SKIL 10 AMP Fixed Base Router Kit at Amazon for $199 The material can then be guided into the blade for a variety of jobs, including shaping trim, cutting rabbets, or making tongue-and-groove edges. Once attached to the router table, the router bit sticks up out of the table surface. However, a router table can help improve control and accuracy by providing a stationary position in which the router tool can sit. If the router slips, shifts, or kicks back, material can potentially be cut, nicked, or otherwise damaged. One drawback of a handheld router is that the tool relies on the user for control and accuracy. There are multiple common router types, including fixed-base routers, plunge routers, trim routers, and router tables. On/off switch: A switch or trigger that turns the router on or off.Depth stop: A depth guide that can be preset to a specified depth for making cuts at consistent depths or stopping the router from being lowered too far into the material.Speed control: This dial can be used to increase or decrease the router cutter’s operating speed.Base: Handheld router bases have a hole in their center, through which the router bit protrudes to cut into the target material.Collet: A collet is essentially a steel sleeve enclosed within a locking or retaining nut that secures the router bit in the router while working.Motor: An electric router typically has a vertically mounted motor that converts electrical energy into mechanical energy to drive the cutting blade.Knowing how to use and maintain a router tool properly begins with understanding the key parts of a router and how they function. If you want to learn how to use a router the right way, this guide has you covered. There are many router projects woodworkers can tackle with a standard cutting bit, but switching to one of several router bit shapes to create unique designs and intricate patterns can open up more customization options. Using a router table or a handheld router, woodworkers can make cutouts, sharp edges, rounded edges, joints, decorative cuts, rabbets, and dadoes, and they can even make duplicates from a pattern.
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