One of the first facts the uninitiated should learn is that routers and the work that comes from routers are defined by the various bits used and the quality of those bits. Rather plain pieces of lumber can be given a completely different appearance with beautiful shaping and design with commercial router tables or homemade router tables.
Even those who are willing to cut their own finish pieces sometimes avoid using a router, because they believe it is just too difficult. But with some practice and patience, nearly anyone can learn to produce fine bevelled edges, shaped pieces and so on, using a good router. In fact, some people who have experience with routers state that if a person can guide a piece of finish lumber through a stationary power saw or table saw, then they can also make good use of a router.
Companies that produce woodworking equipment such as routers also offer a range of educational material and design plans specifically for mastering the router. Plans and designs clearly show the shapes and designs that can be produced with different angles, different bits and different motions. Some of the plans and designs are free of charge and easily found on Web sites.
As mentioned earlier, the various bits used with routers are really at the core of what this marvelous item can do. For example, notching and edging in different patterns is possible with certain types of bits. Edge bits create bevel edges for a mantle piece, as another example. Straight bits and other specialty bits can be used to create deep grooves and notches, even with perpendicular sides. If a craftsman wants to create a tight fit for a high-quality cabinet drawer, he or she may use a dovetail bit. There are also slot cutters and finger-joint bits, often used to hold cabinet fronts snugly in place.
Those with some expertise in the use of commercial routers, such as Wolfcraft router tables, might use a "stile" bit for such special tasks as post caps and fence work. Experienced craftsmen sometimes use the same bit and make two or more passes through the router to create a certain look. Miniature bits can be used with some routers to create toys and doll houses, as well as to detail fine furniture.
If workshop space is limited, several companies can supply bench top routers, some with height adjustment to make the work more comfortable. With router work and other finishing tasks, it is essential that the equipment be placed so that it is comfortable to use.
For finishing a one-of-a-kind fireplace mantle, creating crown molding unlike any other or for more practical tasks such as capping fence uprights, the router can be an ideal piece of equipment. In some cases, only a router will provide the detail and beauty required by a home improvement project.
