A router mounted on a table does some things better than a handheld router: In some situations, it’s simply faster and easier to push wood across a router than to push a router across the wood. In other situations, a sturdy table and fence give you more control and accuracy. Now you’re more familiar with the types of router tables and their component parts, it’s time for me to give you a step-by-step guide to setting your table up.

Safety of the operator should be a primary concern, as there is potential for injury when using a router. The bit guard is an important feature as it keeps your fingers away from the spinning bit and protects your hands when cutting. It also stops chips from flying up into your eyes. Starter PinThere are certain cuts that a fence won’t work for. On these occasions, a starter pin is what you use.

Assemble the cabinet box, and then install the drawer slides and doors. “Wrap” style hinges make the doors easy to hang and adjust. Before I start with step one, let me first remind you to wear personal protective equipment. To keep yourself safe, use eye and hearing protection and a good quality respirator. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your table and router and work safety rules. Step 1: Selecting a Bit You need to set the height of the bit. It determines how much of the bit is exposed or how much it will cut into your workpiece. Lots of options are available to make sure you have the right base plate. For example, you can get one-size-fits-all, pre-drilled plates, and blank plates. FenceA benchtop table is the most portable type of router table, and its design allows you to use it on a workbench or counter. It takes up a small amount of workspace, and when you’ve finished, you simply store it away. Compact Router Tables Double dust collection Vacuum ports in the cabinet and fence provide suction both above and below the router bit, making this router table one of the cleanest machines available. If the bit is already touching the collet when you try to tighten it, you might not be able to tighten it fully. A bit that is not in the collet securely could come loose, fly out, and possibly cause serious injury.

Start with small cuts and get in some practice before moving on to more significant projects. How to Use a Router Table – 6 Common Uses You attach a router bit to a router table using a collect. Before you fit the bit into the collet, make sure your router is unplugged from the power supply or remove the battery. The plate is generally machined aluminum, but it might also be solid phenolic aluminum. Both materials are sturdy and hard-wearing. Cut all the cabinet parts (parts A – G) and band them with hardwood edging (S – W). I used maple. When gluing on the edging, I used masking tape to hold it in place until the glue set, though there were some stubborn spots where I needed the extra force of clamps. The edging has two purposes: It protects the edges of the MDF, which are prone to chipping and denting, and it just plain looks good when the router table is finished.With all the parts edged, I assembled the cabinet using washer-head screws. You could use other types of screws, but washer heads eliminate the need to drill countersink recesses, add some strength, and—like the edging—they look good. All these materials are suitable because they don’t warp, are entirely flat and even. All these qualities are vital if you don’t want to compromise your molding’s shape. Legs or Base For the complete novice, a router table can be overwhelming. It’s not easy to use, but you’ll be able to take your woodworking projects to the next level with some guidance and practice. Do I Need a Router Table to Use a Router? Another joinery technique you can use your router for is planing. This is a crucial step when preparing wood for jointing. Planing is important because it removes imperfections and ensures edges are perfectly straight. Router Table as a Jointer