| How to use a router |
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| Written by ramos |
| Monday, 14 July 2008 22:16 |
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Step1 Always use a sharp bit. Dull edges make for more work. Step2 Clamp the work securely. Step3 Fasten a piece of wood the same thickness as the workpiece to your bench. Use it to support the router and prevent wobbling, which can ruin your work. Step4 Feed the router from left to right so that the cutting edge of the bit meets the wood first. Step5 Make a series of shallow passes, gradually extending the bit. A deep pass can bind, burn the wood or twist the tool in your hands. Step6 Don't push the router. That causes the engine to slow, which in turn slows the blade. You're more likely to get chips and splinters this way, and it's possible to burn the wood this way as well. Step7 Use an edge guide whenever possible - freehand cutting requires patience, steady hands and practice. Step8 Start routing somewhere other than on an edge (plunge cutting) by starting the motor and lowering the spinning blade into the work. TO cut curves, I use a flush trim bit. Make my curve pattern out of some 1/2" ply and a jig saw. Then I can use the flush trim bit and the template to cut as many identical pieces as I need |