A wood router is considered a versatile piece of woodworking equipment in a workshop. It is a powerful tool or a cutter that spins a bit, at a very high speed with the many different types of bits purchased for a wood router. The woodwork jobs are made easier to complete.
The use of a wood router takes a bit of practice but not difficult. For safe and successful use, we will help you increase your knowledge and enhance your skills on how to use a wood router for beginners.
Let’s find more information about wood routers today!
What You’ll Need to Follow This Tutorial
The important things you need for this project includes a wood router. Choose the right bit for your task including the straight cutting dado bit, cove bit, rabbeting bit, ogee bit, and round-over bit. Wear a safety gear to protect your eyes like safety goggles.
Step-by-step Guide to Using a Wood Router for Beginners
Step #1
Properly install a router bit. If a wood router bit isn’t properly installed, it’ll vibrate leading to a rough finish that can be very dangerous. The bit should be sharp and clean.
When the bit is installed into the collet, the shank (about ¾) is placed inside the collet and ensure that the router bit is tightened securely before using a wood router.
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Step #2
Avoiding splintering wood when using a router with woods such as oak with a strong grain, so be careful handling it. The bit should be in good condition and it’s sharp, cutting it with the grain not against it.
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Step #3
A common mistake that wood router first-timers make is advancing the wood router in the wrong direction along the wood. Moving the router in the opposite direction in rotating motion achieves the best results, done from left to right. By doing so, you’ll find a better control of the router without running away from you.
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Step #4
When you’re using a wood router there are safety precautions you need to bear in mind when you’ll use a wood router. You’ll need an appropriate safety gear including protective glasses for eye protection against flying debris as well as ear defenders for ear protection against the noise. The bit should be secured firmly into the collet with the appropriate speed.
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Tips and Tricks When Using a Wood Router
Tip #1
A fixed base router is set on the depth of the cut before using the router. This type of router stays fixed. On the other hand, a plunge router allows cut depth adjustment while you’re using the router.
This can be useful if you prefer to begin from the middle of a wood piece, or if you want to gradually increase the cut’s depth. Plunge routers have the option in fixing the depth to get the best benefits of a wood router.
Tip #2
A straight cutting dado bit makes a square channel located in the middle of a wood piece. An ogee bit is also referred to as a Roman Ogee, used in cutting an ornate S-shaped profile on the edge of a stock.
On the other hand, a rabbeting bit is used in cutting a square dado profile and a round over bit cuts a rounded profile into the piece of wood square edge.
Tip #3
Always read the instructional manual of the wood router you newly purchased to get an idea of how it works. Take note of the safety precautions and maintenance tips for the best results.
Also, check for the device and parts warranty. Product reviews online can help you so you can choose the right brand for your woodwork project. There are many brands of wood router available at Amazon.com that are top caliber.
Conclusion
A wood router is a helpful power tool used to route an area in a hard material like a plastic or wood. Routers are used in woodworking most especially cabinetry. The original form of the router is a hand tool type.
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