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When creating a template, make it either
smaller or larger by the offset amount, depending on
whether you're routing outside or inside the template
(for example, when doing inlays or mortises).
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Aligning your template guide
To ensure your guide is centered on the bit,
use an alignment pin. Insert it into the router
and screw the guide onto the router base. Loosen
the router-base screws slightly and move the tip
up so it's snug in the guide opening. Ensure the
guide is centered and tighten the router-base
screws. Remove the pin.
You can also align by eye. For greater accuracy,
keep the same edge of the guide against the template
throughout the entire process.
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Edge trimming
Creating an interesting edge on tables, cabinet
sides or other projects is easy to do with a jigsaw
or bandsaw, but you'll be left with saw marks to sand
off. By cutting the shape close to the final size, and
then using a template and a router to finish the job
you get a consistent, smooth edge, which requires little
additional work.
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To do this, draw your pattern exactly to size.
Decide which straight bit and guide you will use
and calculate the offset (refer to the table on page 2).
If the shape is relatively straight or, at least,
free of any sharp curves, cut the pattern to the
exact size and simply shift it by the amount of
the offset. If your pattern has deep curves you
can use a compass or a pencil and a piece of wood
that is the same width as the offset in order
to draw the pattern. Cut the pattern,
sand it smooth and then secure it to the stock
with clamps or double-sided tape.
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Using a compass to draw the pattern.
Using a piece of wood held firmly with the pencil to draw the pattern. |
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