This Old House Router Table Plans

This Old House Router Table Plans: A Comprehensive Guide

Are you looking for a way to enhance your woodworking skills and create professional-looking projects? If so, building your own router table is a great option. A router table provides a stable and accurate platform for using your router, making it easier to create precise cuts and shapes.

Benefits of Building a Router Table:

Accuracy:

A router table allows you to make more accurate cuts and shapes than you could by hand. *

Stability:

The table provides a solid and stable foundation for your router, reducing the chances of vibration or movement. *

Safety:

A router table can help to keep your hands away from the router bit, reducing the risk of injury. *

Versatility:

A router table can be used for a variety of tasks, including routing, dadoing, and rabbeting.

Materials and Tools Needed:

* 3/4-inch plywood (4'x8' sheet) * 2x4s (8 feet) * 1/2-inch MDF (4'x8' sheet) * T-track (8 feet) * Router plate * Router bit * Wood screws * Clamps * Safety glasses * Dust mask * Sander * Drill

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Cut the Plywood:

- Cut two pieces of plywood to 24"x36". These will be the top and bottom of your router table. - Cut four pieces of plywood to 18"x36". These will be the sides of your router table. 2.

Assemble the Frame:

- Attach the four side pieces to the bottom piece of plywood using wood screws. - Make sure that the edges of the side pieces are flush with the edges of the bottom piece. 3.

Attach the Top:

- Place the top piece of plywood on top of the frame and align it with the edges of the side pieces. - Attach the top piece to the frame using wood screws. 4.

Install the Router Plate:

- Choose a location for your router plate on the top of the table. - Trace the outline of the router plate onto the top of the table. - Cut out the hole for the router plate using a jigsaw. - Attach the router plate to the top of the table using wood screws. 5.

Install the T-Track:

- Measure and cut the T-track to the desired length. - Attach the T-track to the top of the table along the front and back edges. - Use wood screws to secure the T-track to the table. 6.

Install the Router Bit:

- Insert the router bit into the router plate. - Tighten the collet nut to secure the router bit. 7.

Test the Router Table:

- Turn on the router and make a few test cuts. - Adjust the height of the router bit and the speed of the router until you are satisfied with the results.

Tips for Building a Router Table:

* Use high-quality materials. This will ensure that your router table is durable and lasts for many years. * Make sure that all of your cuts are accurate. This will help to ensure that your router table is sturdy and functional. * Be patient. Building a router table takes time and effort. Don't rush the process and take your time to do it right.

Conclusion:

Building your own router table is a great way to improve your woodworking skills and create professional-looking projects. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can build a router table that will meet your needs and help you create beautiful and functional woodworking projects.