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Main => Main Forum => Topic started by: Pete Harcoff on February 10, 2004, 05:00:26 pm

Title: Are routers hard to use?
Post by: Pete Harcoff on February 10, 2004, 05:00:26 pm
Specifically using a router to cut a slot along the edge of some MDF for t-molding?

I've never used a router before and am planning to borrow one at some point for that purpose.
Title: Re:Are routers hard to use?
Post by: hyiu on February 10, 2004, 05:04:20 pm
its not hard to use....

just if possible... also borrow a goggle (for eye protection..), ear plug... and try it out on a piece of scrap wood....
(you might want a mouth mask also if you're routing mdf...)

and you'll be all set....
Title: Re:Are routers hard to use?
Post by: Santoro on February 10, 2004, 05:05:39 pm
Not very hard at all.

Just practice on a scrap and place a small test strip of t-moldimg in to be sure it is centered.  I eyballed the center of the MDF and consequently the t-molding is slightly off-center.    

Make sure to take into account the Laminate/formica if you have it.
Title: Re:Are routers hard to use?
Post by: Apollo on February 10, 2004, 05:22:21 pm
Practiseon scrap wood first and DO IT OUTSIDE. I cannot stress that strongly ehough, lol.
Title: Re:Are routers hard to use?
Post by: Howard_Casto on February 10, 2004, 05:30:45 pm
Your biggest problem will be borrowing a router with access to slot cutting bits.  They are used for t-molding, biscuit cutting and that's about it.  Also the particular size you need for t-molding isn't readily available.  :(

All of this is just a warning.... perpare to fork over 40 bucks for a bit when you borrow it and prepare to order it from an online store, most likely t-molding.com
Title: Re:Are routers hard to use?
Post by: crashwg on February 10, 2004, 06:53:21 pm
Go here for cheap slot cutting bit:

http://www.mlcswoodworking.com/shopsite_sc/store/html/smarthtml/pages/bt_slot.html (http://www.mlcswoodworking.com/shopsite_sc/store/html/smarthtml/pages/bt_slot.html)

you want item #5341 or #7641 depending on the router.  it's only $16 with free shipping (i don't think there's a minimum, but i don't know...)
Title: Re:Are routers hard to use?
Post by: Pete Harcoff on February 10, 2004, 07:00:03 pm
What size bit is required for slot-cutting (for T-molding)?  I checked my local Home Depot, and they had a bunch of slot-cutting bits.  I guess I figured I'd be able to pick one up there, but I don't know the size...
Title: Re:Are routers hard to use?
Post by: Jakobud on February 10, 2004, 07:41:04 pm
Quote from: Pete Harcoff on February 10, 2004, 07:00:03 pm
What size bit is required for slot-cutting (for T-molding)?  I checked my local Home Depot, and they had a bunch of slot-cutting bits.  I guess I figured I'd be able to pick one up there, but I don't know the size...

That amazes me as I have never ever seen them at Home Depot.  You need a 1/16" slot cutting bit.
Title: Re:Are routers hard to use?
Post by: eightbit on February 10, 2004, 07:58:02 pm
Quote from: Jakobud on February 10, 2004, 07:41:04 pm
Quote from: Pete Harcoff on February 10, 2004, 07:00:03 pm
What size bit is required for slot-cutting (for T-molding)?  I checked my local Home Depot, and they had a bunch of slot-cutting bits.  I guess I figured I'd be able to pick one up there, but I don't know the size...

That amazes me as I have never ever seen them at Home Depot.  You need a 1/16" slot cutting bit.
Home depot usually carries slot cutters but not that small.
Title: Re:Are routers hard to use?
Post by: Apollo on February 10, 2004, 08:03:52 pm
I've seen plenty of slot cutting bits in shops but NEVER a 1/16" one.
Title: Re:Are routers hard to use?
Post by: eightbit on February 10, 2004, 08:09:05 pm
Look for some basic instructions on using a router on the web. It is a tool that uses a very fast rotating bit for cutting and they can be dangerous if not used properly. Also make sure you clamp down your work securly cut against the direction of the cut.