WHAT IT DOES
Routers are woodworking super heroes as they are the most versatile tool in the workshop. They
Can:
Create decorative mouldings
Create decorative flutings and inlays
Trim wood
Cut out shapes and copying a shape
Cut traditional joints
Carve out shapes
Cut grooves and rabbets
Recess hinges
Drill clean holes
Plunge Routers - allow you to set the depth of the cut but also allows you to plunge down into the material directly from above.
HOW TO USE IT
Take some time to make sure that you have the right set up to get a good finish on your job and to work safely. These links give a feel for the very many different things a router can do. Make sure that the bit is properly fitted and that you work in the right direction for the rotation of the bit.
Basic information - text : Router Woodworking Basics: How to Use a Router
INSTRUCTIONAL VIDEOS
Please note: these are general introductions to this type of tool and are not specific to this exact tool. We always advise reading the manual (which you can find linked under the tool image on the left), especially the safety advisories, before using any tools.
How to use a wood router (video): How to Use a Router | Woodworking
SAFETY INFORMATION & PPE
Safety glasses - Essential
Dust mask - Essential
Ear protection - Essential
YOU MAY ALSO NEED
Router bits! - Essential. They usually come as a set containing different profiles which will cut different shapes.
Clamps – Essential. Clamp the wood you are routing into your work surface.
Extraction: Recommended. Routers produce a huge amount of dust and using them inside without extraction will cause a huge mess. You may be able to fit your vacuum cleaner to the router as a form of extraction.
Borrow with
router bits (T085)