Can I use a Dremel to cut the slot for t-molding?

[TBullet]

I don't have access to a router but I do have a Dremel. Has anyone had any success using one to cut a slot for t-molding?

[Nacimroc]

I definitely wouldn't suggest it! You could always hire out a router for the day ?

[eds1275]

I have a dremel with router attachment/base and is doesn't have the guts to do any serious work.

[Epyx]

Borrow or rent one if you can. Although if possible, place a new one on your Birthday/Xmas list

[TBullet]

It looks like I'm going to have to get the slotted bit from t-molding with the t-molding I need. Are the bits universal on the 1/4" or 1/2" shank? I'll look at renting a router to get this one done.

[Wolfman5750]

You should check on craigslist for a router.  I found one on there for 20 bucks with bits.

[tutone]

It looks like I'm going to have to get the slotted bit from t-molding with the t-molding I need. Are the bits universal on the 1/4" or 1/2" shank? I'll look at renting a router to get this one done.

Not sure what you are asking but maybe I'm reading this wrong.  Typical routers have 1/4 and/or 1/2 collets.  The bit you are ordering from t-moulding is the cutting bit with an arbor.  The arbor is 1/4 (I think) so you'll need the 1/4 collet for that.  Just   make sure that you have a collet for the router that matches the size of the arbor and you'll be OK.

Harbor freight has a set of slot-cutters in 1/4, and a set in 1/2 for under $30.  I think the single slot cutter from t-moulding is cheaper.

[tutone]

It looks like I'm going to have to get the slotted bit from t-molding with the t-molding I need. Are the bits universal on the 1/4" or 1/2" shank? I'll look at renting a router to get this one done.

[tutone]

sorry for the triple posting.

[TBullet]

It looks like I'm going to have to get the slotted bit from t-molding with the t-molding I need. Are the bits universal on the 1/4" or 1/2" shank? I'll look at renting a router to get this one done.

Not sure what you are asking but maybe I'm reading this wrong.  Typical routers have 1/4 and/or 1/2 collets.  The bit you are ordering from t-moulding is the cutting bit with an arbor.  The arbor is 1/4 (I think) so you'll need the 1/4 collet for that.  Just   make sure that you have a collet for the router that matches the size of the arbor and you'll be OK.

Harbor freight has a set of slot-cutters in 1/4, and a set in 1/2 for under $30.  I think the single slot cutter from t-moulding is cheaper.

What I'm asking is: I'll have to rent a router. I don't have one. Depending on what the rented router shank size is, 1/4" or 1/2", I was wondering if the 7/64" slot cutter is universal on both 1/4" or 1/2" shanks.
I'll have to find out what size shank the rented router is and go from there. I just checked and it looks like they have a 1/2" collet on the router.
Thanks.

[tutone]

The router will have a collet (1/2" as you've found out) and will probably not come with a shank (arbor).  The arbor usually comes with the slot cutter.  The slot cutter will _either_ fit on a 1/4 arbor, or a 1/2 arbor, but not both.

The arbor is a 1/4 or 1/2 diameter shaft that is threaded on the end.  you install the slot cutter (and shims and bearing) on the end of the arbor and put the nut on it.  Now you take this whole tool and put it in the collet on the router and tighten it down.

I think the slot cutters from t-moulding come with the arbor and bearing, etc.. so then you just need to make sure you have the right collet size for the arbor size.

Hope that helps.

[TBullet]

This will help a lot. Thanks.

[jbarnatt]

I say it can. It's a little harder to do though, especially on 3/4. You might need to do a little hand work to make it nice. I used mine to my T-molding. The major problem I ran into was making the groove wide enough. In fairness, my machines are built out of 1/2 MDF and they are only about 4 feet tall overall.

[TBullet]

Well, I ordered the 3 slot cutter from T-molding for the 5/8" molding I need. Now just to get a router and set it up. How deep should I cut the slot? 1/4" or just enough to have it fit?

[Hoopz]

Well, I ordered the 3 slot cutter from T-molding for the 5/8" molding I need. Now just to get a router and set it up. How deep should I cut the slot? 1/4" or just enough to have it fit?

It doesn't matter how deep.  The t-molding will need to be pushed firmly into the slot and it sticks pretty firmly in there.

[jmike]

Two things to remember

1st: you want to make sure you have the slot cutter the right side up.

2nd: Make sure you try cutting the groove on a scrap piece first, (insert the T-molding to make sure it's centered).

Good Luck
 

[drventure]

Make sure you try cutting the groove on a scrap piece first,

+1 on that. Testing on scrap is the BEST way to make sure you've got your setup right. Remember to lay down a piece of laminate there as well if you'll be laminating or putting anything on top of the CP, as it will effect the thickness slightly and you'll need to adjust the slot cutter position as appropriate.

[Epyx]

As per the tips above:

1) Smoke = bad and is usually and indication you have the cutter the wrong side up.

2) Ensure you are hand routing in the proper feed direction.  For outer edges like T Mold slots make sure you are routing in a counter-clockwise direction so you don't jump. Concentrate on keeping the pad of the router down as even a bit of lift will offset your slot. This is best achieved with a slow but deliberate pace where you maintain as much pressure keeping the router flush as you do guiding it along.

As per above practice this with scraps first until you are comfortable...don't rush it!