How to achieve round edge on 1/2" MDF

[masamunex]

Hi, I was writing in hopes that someone here could give me some advice or point me in the right direction. I'm currently building a bartop and I'm going for a round edge look in favor of using t-molding. I purchased a 1-1/4" roundover bit but was thinking there must be an easier way of achieving this look. I'm using 1/2" mdf. Pictured below is the type of look I'm going for. Any advice would be very appreciated. Thanks in advanced!

[Dr Zero]

Just get a piece of half round molding and apply with some wood glue.

I tried shaping before and couldnt get it as smooth as I wanted then it clicked I trimmed back the shelf some to compensate for the added molding and put that baby on with wood glue. After it was dry I sanded to smooth and blend it all in and painted the harder solid wood came out looking better to me.

If you have curves you might try something like this

http://www.handsontools.com/Protekto-trim-37-731-14-Half-Round-Wheel-Well-Molding-20-Kit-Black_p_14486.html

http://www.flexibletrim.com/G_Search.asp?category=Half%20Round&Thickness=0&Thickness2=9999&width=0&width2=9999

[masamunex]

Thanks for the reply but I think I found what I'm looking for! I searched google for "oval edge routing" and came across a router bit called a bull nose(a.k.a. oval edge, finger nail, half round, convex edge). This is exactly what I had in mind.

http://www.eagleamerica.com/product/vp14-3218/pc_-_bull_nose

[The Lumberjackass]

how do ,

ok, first off, your selected mdf thickness will make it difficult to route the edge cleanly.
but , your only option here is to route the mdf with a roundover cutter on each side.
although dr zero's idea is excellent also , it'll only work on the rear of the bartop where its perfectly straight.
if i remember correctly , most , if not all cabs have curves or sharp bends and they cant be moulded correctly with pre-made rounded moulding.

also,
the oval cutter you found on the website is useless to you as the guide bearing needs to rest on the stock your moulding.
and if your trying to roundover both edges at the same time, that leaves you with a guide bearing floating in mid-air.

yes , technically the oval cutter does roundover both edges , but it would only be able to do that cut on a routertable with a fence , and
also, provided that the mdf sheet has a perfectly straight edge.

[Ond]

your only option here is to route the mdf with a roundover cutter on each side.

+1  I'd just use the round over bit.   Set the bit penetration so that you are still left with a slight edge the guide bearing can run along when you flip the MDF sheet over to do the other side. Lightly finish with hand sanding.