routing workshop
by John Perkins
A furniture maker and designer , John is well known for his articles and books on all aspects of woodworking .
There are many ways of using the router , as a handheld power tool , table mounted or fitted to a range of routing accessories , jigs and guides . However , the one thing that is common to all of these methods is that you will need some form of stand or bench on which to work .
Only by providing a basic routing bench , large enough to work on , conveniently and comfortably , can you start to get the best from your routing equipment and ensure that you can work safely , accurately and efficiently . The most obvious choice is to build a routing table , incorporating a range of clamping and holding methods . The ideal bench is rigid , stable and large enough to handle any size or shape workpiece ( within reason ) while carrying out a range of operations . Making such a bench will also offer the opportunity to build in certain features , avoiding the need for separate or free standing routing tables and machines , combining them in one accessible and convenient routing centre .
Hand-held Operations
A flat , stable and rigid surface is essential for any hand-held routing operation . A purpose made bench can be fitted with versatile and adaptable clamping systems , such as Trend toggle and ‘ down-pivot ’ clamps , as well as integral vacuum clamping facilities . Permanent provision can also be made for securing purpose made jigs and mounting boards for accessories .
Inverted Routing
An inverted routing table offers the easiest and most convenient method of routing . With the router securely mounted and the workpiece resting on a level surface , running against a square and rigid fence , there is little room for inaccuracy . However many proprietary tables tend to be on the small side , particularly when handling panel or sheet materials . With longer in-feed and out-feed surfaces , during edge planning and moulding with the back fence , or profiling with bearing cutters or template followers , the workpiece is better supported and easier to handle . The Trend range of inverted table routing accessories , includes pressure guards , profiling guards , and a range of levers , knobs and threaded inserts to allow you to build and adapt your own table to suit your requirements .
Overhead Routing
Overhead routing offers advantages for specific operations such as pin routing , face relief work or any operation where it is necessary to see exactly what the cutter is doing , or where there will be inadequate material left to support the work on the machined face . The Trend
Routerack system offers a wide range of overhead mounting possibilities including router mounting plates and clamps and vertical and horizontal support pillars . These can be used to mount the router in the most advantageous attitude for a specific operation . A comprehensive range of guide pins and bushes are available for copy and batch production work .
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INProfile Winter 1997