Build Your Own Arcade Controls Forum
Main => Woodworking => Topic started by: Rick on September 07, 2011, 02:05:46 pm
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Quick and simple question. I have a router, and a template routing kit for it. I made a template for the accenting at the bottom of my marquee, shown below:
(http://img143.imageshack.us/img143/9403/sidedetail.jpg)
I'm planning on creating multiple 3/4" x 3/4" x 1/4" depth 'squares' (accented, as I realize the bit will give me rounded corners, and like that) at various intervals all over the cabinet (to denote the 'connector' attachments, that appear in the original plan - check my thread or blog for more info) and need to think about the best way of doing them.
The first way would be to draw the squares where they need to be placed, and manually route them out. It sounds easy enough, but I'm obviously concerned with making any small, stupid mistakes. (Like, accidentally sneezing and drawing the router across the entire face... The second way would be to making a simple template, attaching it in place (in my experience lately, my clamps are NOT the best, so screwing it directly to the stock and repairing the holes later is an option) and then carving using the template.
Which way would you experts recommend? I have about sixteen to do, and do want a uniform (i.e. "perfect") look. (Did I just answer my own question? Is the template a must?)
Thanks!
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What are these little rounded 3/4" x 3/4" x 1/4" squares going to be? Is it the faux bolt locations I saw in the renders?
Best bet for a good look would probably end up being a router and a template. You could do it freehand but if you're like me the straights end up a bit wavy. Also since you have that nice carvewright (right?) couldn't you just remake the pieces that need the "squares" and have it carve them in as well? It sure looks like it handeld your speaker panel well enough. Only issue I could see is maybe a size issue.
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Are these squares innies our outies? I was looking at the pics and couldn't figure out what you were talking about.
But if they are innies, use the router and template. Of course the smaller the bit size, the sharper the corner. If you mean outties, rip some stock into 3/4 lengths and finish them on a chop saw.
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What are these little rounded 3/4" x 3/4" x 1/4" squares going to be? Is it the faux bolt locations I saw in the renders?
You got it. I'm considering some neat little Allen bolts and black washers to put in there.
(http://treelinetampa.com/allenboltediteda.jpg)
Best bet for a good look would probably end up being a router and a template. You could do it freehand but if you're like me the straights end up a bit wavy. Also since you have that nice carvewright (right?) couldn't you just remake the pieces that need the "squares" and have it carve them in as well? It sure looks like it handeld your speaker panel well enough. Only issue I could see is maybe a size issue.
I could use the Carvewright, but it would mean recreating the entire piece, since I've glued everything up and also tacked it altogether with brad nails. It's a good idea - I wish I'd thought to use it prior to doing the sides. It would have been much easier for everything carved so far. I think, going forward, the template would be the best solution. (Seeing as there are so many, I just know ONE would screw up somehow... ...with my luck, it's usually the last one.)
Are these squares innies our outies? I was looking at the pics and couldn't figure out what you were talking about.
They're innies... It's small indents where I'll be putting in false bolts. In the original graphics from the game, they're shown as small discolorations, but from their placement, they look to be some type of attachment. I'm using a bit of intuition to say they're bolt holes.
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I'd also say it sounds like the template is the way to go. If your clamps aren't the best, couldn't you use carpet tape? That way you don't have to fill all sorts of holes later...
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I'd also say it sounds like the template is the way to go. If your clamps aren't the best, couldn't you use carpet tape? That way you don't have to fill all sorts of holes later...
You read my mind, good sir! I actually hit up HD this morning, and bought a nice roll of carpet tape to perform all of my future cuts!