TEMPLATES

Router Woodworking

Templates: The software for the router. All the directions for the cutter pathway are encrypted in the form of the template.


My put-on-your-shoes bench could not have been made without a template, the key to router control.

Templates are to routing what roads are to cars. The template is the tool to get the router (and its cutter) to follow a pathway. A template can be designed for a no-risk cut like a dovetail drawer comb template. The collar or bearing cannot escape the confines of the template. A template of this sort is often the most difficult to make.

A template that is used to shape the outside of the work is also a no-risk template. Both templates, however, have no provision in them to prevent tearout, kick back, burning of the stock or any other such calamity. Managing adversity will take time and practice.

My put-on-your-shoes bench was extensively template routed. The process was facilitated with my pattern bit set. Most of the joinery I do, I do with templates; they are indispensable to this router tech.

The last chapter in "The Router Book" is a summary of the methods I use to make and use templates. If you have a template problem, send me an email; I may know of a process that could save you some time and money.