Router Table Essentials

Class Preview

A router table adds a LOT to the shop. With the amazingly diverse availability of router bit profiles, there are many different things you can do on a router table; from edge profiling to joinery. Thanks to the high rpm of a router motor, the cut quality is great, typically requiring very little sanding. With George Vondriska as your instructor, this class will give you many important tips and fundamentals – helping you to get the most out of your router table.

Getting Started

Fixed base, plunge base, router lift….what’s the best set up for your router table? We’ll take a look at different styles of routers to learn what’s best for you. Your router bit education includes choosing between 1/4” and 1/2″ shanks, how to properly install a bit in a collet, determining if a bit is dull, how to sharpen it if it is dull, and more. Once you know how to set up your router table and install a bit, we can move on to making cuts. There’s a lot involved with this including use of feather boards and push sticks and how to set up for multiple light passes.

Making Clean Cuts

A router table can provide incredibly clean cuts, provided you use it correctly. Routing end grain often leads to chipping on the exit side of the cut. We’ll have a look at different ways to avoid this, including following the correct sequence of cuts, and using a great shop-made push pad to control the cuts and prevent chipping.

Techniques

The router table provides a great way to make dadoes, rabbets, and slots. Even in delicate veneered material you’ll find that the cut quality is great. You’ll learn to create through and stopped dadoes, and how to make a dado or groove the perfect width. We’ll also teach you: How to use a keyhole bit; perfect for hanging things on the wall. Two different techniques for trimming to a pattern, providing a great way for making multiple parts. How to use the router table to make custom dowels.

Class Summary

George wraps up this Class with a reminder to practice the processes and skills you learned on the router table – and you’ll be on your way to using this versatile tool for many projects in your shop.

Bonus: Intro to Router Tables

George shares his thoughts about the versatility and value of good router table skills.

Meet Your Instructor

Learn more about your instructor, George Vondriska.