Build Your Own Arcade Controls Forum

Main => Woodworking => Topic started by: Marcade on April 22, 2011, 05:38:43 am

Title: Dremel instead of router?
Post by: Marcade on April 22, 2011, 05:38:43 am
Anyone used a dremel in place of a router?
I've always wanted a dremel as they seem like a useful multi-tool and I don't have a router and am finding it difficult to get access to one.
I've tempted to get a dremel as I wont be putting all my money in one basket so to speak, but would it be any good for the t-molding slots?

It's only a bartop so hopefully wouldn't need too much messing with a router...
Title: Re: Dremel instead of router?
Post by: BobA on April 22, 2011, 08:21:55 am
The dremel does not have enough power to cut t molding slots.  The router attachment for it does not work well and leaves the tool unstable and dangerous.  I have one and would never try to use it to cut t molding slots.
Title: Re: Dremel instead of router?
Post by: saint on April 22, 2011, 08:29:58 am
Anyone used a dremel in place of a router?
I've always wanted a dremel as they seem like a useful multi-tool and I don't have a router and am finding it difficult to get access to one.
I've tempted to get a dremel as I wont be putting all my money in one basket so to speak, but would it be any good for the t-molding slots?

It's only a bartop so hopefully wouldn't need too much messing with a router...

Yes I have, and NO NO NO NO NO NO NO!

Results with Dremel: Poor, and difficult. Results with router: Excellent, and amazingly quick. Invest in a router if you're going to do any kind of wood working. You won't be sorry.
Title: Re: Dremel instead of router?
Post by: TopJimmyCooks on April 22, 2011, 11:21:58 am
Get a cheesy laminate trimmer like
http://www.harborfreight.com/1-4-quarter-inch-trim-router-44914.html (http://www.harborfreight.com/1-4-quarter-inch-trim-router-44914.html)

Add a bigger base on it - unfortunately I don't have a pic of this because I have some full size routers.  Let me know if you don't understand- the clear plastic base can be drilled for mounting holes and have a second, larger base (like 1/4" plywood) added underneath.  this will give you more stability to keep a t mold bit aligned.

It's underpowered for a t mold bit, so on your first passes, don't push the bit's ball bearing all the way to the edge of the wood.  let it cut a little wood out of the slot at a time.  Do not try this with just the small base on the trimmer, not enough contact with the face of the wood to be stable. 

Be careful and safe.
Title: Re: Dremel instead of router?
Post by: Marcade on April 22, 2011, 04:20:12 pm
Ok thanks everyone, scratch that dremel idea!