Router Woodworking Basics: How to Use a Router

By George Vondriska

1 rbphoto2-router woodworking Want to use a router, but don’t know where to start? Learn how to use a router with these router woodworking techniques and tips.

Boy, I use routers a lot. They can do so much. From adding a profile to an edge to cutting dovetail joints, a router is an incredibly versatile machine. But if you’ve never used one, routers can be intimidating. This article provides buying advice on how to use a router along with tips to help you get started.

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Photo 1: Fixed Base Routers typically provide easy bit changes and bit height adjustments

Router Types.

Routers can be divided into two categories: fixed base and plunge base. On a fixed base router, once the bit is in and the base is locked, the bit is in a ‘fixed’ position, meaning its depth is set and will stay set (Photo 1).

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Photo 2: Plunge Routers excel at providing distinct starting and stopping points in a cut, often required for mortise and dadoes.

On a plunge base router, the bit can be locked in the router, then plunged in and out of the material (Photo 2).

Since the base on a fixed base router can typically be removed, bit changes are generally easier on a fixed base router than on a plunge router. Many woodworkers find micro-adjusting bit height easier on a fixed base router than a plunge router, which makes fixed base routers a popular choice for use with dovetail jigs, router tables, and other tools where bit depth can be fussy.

The big advantage of plunge routers is that, since they can plunge in and out of the material, you can easily make cuts with distinct starting and stopping points. This is useful when making mortises and dadoes. I also use a plunge router for making adjustable shelf holes in cabinets, and find it works much better than a drill.

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Photo 3: A multi-base router kit consists of one motor that fits both a fixed base and plunge base.

If you’re not quite sure which type of router would be best for you, have a look at multi-base router kits which are available from many manufacturers (Photo 3). Since the kits include a fixed base and a plunge base, they provide the best of both worlds. This give you lots of bang for your woodworking buck.

how to buy a router guide
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Photo 4: Variable speed is required for large diameter bits. The bigger the bit, the slower you can run the router.

Variable Speed

Variable speed is a must-have feature as you demand more of your router. Safety requires that you lower the router rpm (revolutions per minute) when working with large diameter bits (Photo 4). You absolutely cannot run large diameter router bits at full rpm. A router bit speed chart and other helpful tips can be found here.

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Photo 5: Router bits can be purchased with a 1/4" shank, left, or 1/2"shank bits whenever you can.

Router Bit Shanks

Router bits are available in two shank sizes, 1/4? and 1/2? (Photo 5). Given the choice, buy the bit with the 1/2? shank. There’s little, if any, price difference between the two. And the larger shank gives you two advantages. It helps stabilize the bit under cutting pressure so you get less chatter, which means a nicer cut (read less sanding). It also gives the collet (the chuck that holds the bit) more surface to grab, so there’s less chance of the bit coming loose.

7 rbphoto5 So when you’re router shopping you want to look for a machine that has both 1/4? and 1/2? collets. FYI, you may come across some router bits that have an 8-millimeter shank. These are used with a 1/2? to 8-mm reducer inserted into a 1/2? collet.

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Photo 6: Unplug the router and remove the base before changing bits. 2/3 of the bit shank should be inserted into the collet.

Installing Bits

The first step in changing router bits is making certain the router is unplugged. Additionally you’ll make your life easier, and bust fewer knuckles, if you remove the router base when installing and removing bits (Photo 6). When installing a bit in the router, set it so 2/3 of the shank is inside the collet, then tighten the collet.

How to Use a Router

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Photo 7: A router bad securely holds your work in place and allows you to rout all the way around the piece.

Secure Your Work

The last thing you want as you’re routing your material is to have to chase it across the shop. It needs to be secure to your bench. One solution is to clamp your material in place, but the clamp often gets in the way of the router and has to be repositioned. My preference is to use a router mat which provides an excellent non-skid surface (Photo 7). With your project on the mat you can work around all four edges without interference. You can find router mats at some home centers and woodworking specialty stores.

Here’s a tip. If it seems like your mat is losing its grip, rinse it under water to get the dust out of it. That usually helps restore some of its grab.

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Photo 8: Wear safety glasses and hearing protection whenever you're running a router.

Protect Yourself

Don’t even consider plugging the router in until you’ve got ear and eye protection on (Photo 8). Routers are loud enough to cause permanent damage to your hearing if you’re not protected. And you should, of course, always wear eye protection when using tools.

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Photo 9: Rout the outside edge of a board in a counterclockwise direction.

Go In The Right Direction

In order to safely use a router, you’ve got to move it in the right direction. When routing the outside edge of a board, you should go counterclockwise (Photo 9). Going in the correct direction prevents the router from climb cutting and getting away from you.

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Photo 10: Rout the inside edge of a frame in a clockwise direction.

When routing the inside edge of a frame, move in a clockwise direction (Photo 10).

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Photo 11: The correct sequence for routing all four edges of a board is to start on the end grain, then cut long grain, end grain, and long grain.

Start In The Right Spot

If you’re routing all four edges of a board, it’s important to make the cuts in the right sequence. Start on end grain (Photo 11). As the bit exits the end grain, it may slightly chip the adjacent edge. When you rout that edge you’ll automatically clean up any chipping.

Photos By Author

how to buy a router guide
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124 Responses to “Router Woodworking Basics: How to Use a Router”

  1. Ross Patton

    Just signed up, I am a rookie. I retired several years ago and always wanted to do woodworking. I have done things in some ways reverse of most people. I have studied and bought the tools buying intermediate grade tools. I have virtually everything except a lathe. Now I need to learn how to use the tools properly. I look forward to reading and watching what is offered with the tool that intimidates me the most and I know the least about, the router

    Reply
  5. Benoit Robillard

    I am a beginner and my desire Is to work safely and intelligently. Thanx
    I want to work safely and intelligently. I am a beginner..rocky thank

    Reply
  6. Jason Davis

    When using a router table, and using a round over bit on the inside of the work, what direction should you go?

    Reply
    • Customer Service

      Hello Jason,

      Here’s what the experts had to say about your question:

      Always feed your work piece in such a way that the feed direction opposes the rotation of the router bit. As you are looking down at the router bit on a router table, it is rotating counter clockwise.
      Paul

      Please let us know if you have any further questions
      Sincerely,
      Sarah
      Wood Workers Guild of America

      Reply
  8. Harold Morris

    Should have checked here as I bought a 1/4 shank. But for me it is going to work well. I love the information

    Reply
    • Customer Service

      Hello Harold,

      Here’s what the experts had to say about your question:
      Thanks for sharing your feedback. You can do a lot with a 1/4″ router. My most heavily used router is a 1.25 HP unit with a 1/4″ collet. It’s so versatile, and easy to use.

      Paul
      Wood Workers Guild of America Expert

      Reply
    • Customer Service

      Hello Harold!

      Here is what our experts had to say:

      Thanks for sharing your feedback. You can do a lot with a 1/4″ router. My most heavily used router is a 1.25 HP unit with a 1/4″ collet. It’s so versatile, and easy to use.
      Paul

      Thank you!

      Reply
    • Customer Service

      Hello Fred,

      I see you are not yet a member, if you would like to join here is a special offer: https://go.wwgoa.com/C24867

      Here is the reply from the expert:

      I’ve had good luck withPorter Cable and Bosch, and my current favorites are my DeWalts. I have a1-1/4 HP compact router (https://amzn.to/2G23z5g) as well as a 2-1/4 HProuter with two different bases, fixed and plunge (https://amzn.to/2v90JoY). If I had to have only one router, it would be the DeWalt 2-1/4 HP unit https://amzn.to/2v90JoY. I’d install the fixed base in a router table, and use the plunge base forfree-hand routing. The 2-1/4 HP size is light enough to use for hand heldwork, and powerful enough for raised panels. It doesn’t have the muscleof a 3HP router, but if you are not running a production shop, then theadditional power from a 3 HP machine might not be necessary (it is not necessaryfor me anyway). DeWalt has an option in the 3 HP category https://amzn.to/2S49gGx but I would say that Porter Cable is thetime-honored champion in the 3 HP world: https://amzn.to/2ODpBgL
      I try to use 1/2″ shank router bits as much as possible. They don’t cost much more usually, and they are stronger and more stable. Many routers 1-1/2 HP or more will come with both a 1/2″ and a 1/4″ collet.

      Paul
      Woodworkers Guild of America

      Reply
  14. Linda L Sparks

    I want to rout out signs in wood. What is the easiest way or router I should get? Thanks

    Reply
    • Customer Service

      Hello Linda!

      That’s a great question and we’d love to help!

      The ‘Ask an Expert’ section is currently for members to our online community. We do have a promotional offer if you are interested. This would include access to expert advice (like this), plus discounts, hours of Premium videos, etc. Please feel free to take a look. You can message us right back with your question if you decide to become a member and you will have a response within 1-2 business days from our experts!

      Please follow the steps below to receive the annual membership at the introductory rate:

      1. Click on the email link: https://go.wwgoa.com/C20440
      2. Click on the Premium Membership offer.
      3. The Checkout page will display your Premium Membership purchase.
      4. Fill in your Billing Details and create an account password.
      5. Fill in your debit/credit card information.
      6. Finish by clicking Complete Order.

      If you have any further questions, please contact Customer Service at 1-855-253-0822 at your earliest convenience, or chat with us on our site.

      We greatly appreciate your business!

      Sincerely,

      Jessica
      Woodworkers Guild of America Video Membership

      Reply
  17. a sn

    Hi fellow. I’ve use a router mostly for edge treatments. I am considering using a router for template cutting.. Your comments would be welcomed.

    Reply
  18. Rick Anderson

    I have always been told NOT to bottom out the router bit when placing it in the collet (don’t let it touch bottom). Is that the proper/right way ? or does it matter

    Reply
    • Customer Service

      Hi Rick. That is correct. You should leave the bit just shy of the bottom of the collect when installing, perhaps 1/16″ or so.
      Thanks
      Paul-Woodworkers Guild of America

      Reply
  23. Neil Tate

    Very good basic advice for a new starter or Novice also newbies to Routering should practice on a similar SCRAP piece of material before attempting the good piece ..I find it just gets you in the mood and a little more confident before the main attempt.

    Reply
  27. Douglas North

    Just got your mail the Router Info was good I have tried to use mine sometimes but always muck it up, so I know how to use it thank you. Doug

    Reply
  39. Trey Dunlap

    Pretty helpful I usually just by trim.but I don’t do the amount of field work as I once did

    Reply
  42. John Richmond

    Ticket 18731 I was gifted a old Stanley model 91260 router, with 1/4 & 3/8 collets. RPM 27000 but no HP rating on data plate. Is their source for 3/8 bits? Do you know if a separate speed controller would work with this older unit. the router looks brand new as he said it was spare wjich seldom used.

    Reply
    • Customer Service

      Dear John,

      Thank you for your patience. In regards to your question-

      I believe that a variable speed switch like this one should work: https://amzn.to/2QlfBtc.
      I haven’t come across 3/8″ shank bits but there are certainly plenty of 1/4″ ones.

      Sincerely,

      Paul
      Woodworkers Guild of America Video Membership

      Reply
  44. Jeanne

    What size of round over bit would I need to use if I want the profile to be perfectly round after routing both sides of a 3/4″ board?

    Reply
    • Customer Service

      Hi Jeanne. You want to use a router bit with a radius that is 1/2 the diameter of the rod that you are creating. So in your case you would use a 3/8″ roundover bit.
      Thanks
      Paul-WWGOA

      Reply
  46. Edward Jennings

    I have 2 routers for several years and have not used either one. Your article has been a big help in boosting my confidence. Thank you so much, it makes woodworking much more enjoyable.

    Reply
  50. arthur

    this isn’t much. not even barely adequate. using a router is mainly a question of building jigs for it, I think. this thing gives the impression you just lay your job on this mat and pick up your router and start routing it….. you’ll get a bit of a shock if you try that……..

    Reply
  51. Bruce Campbell

    I am using router to cut a dado lengthwise in a 2×2 – 8 foot long. Is there a preferred direction to move – right to left or left to right relative to the fixed wood piece?

    Reply
  53. Anton Wheeler

    NB Ticket 18552 Can you send me the different types of bits for the router (Pics )

    Reply
    • Customer Service

      Dear Anton,

      Thank you for your patience. In regards to your question-

      There are many types of router bits available. This article provides some good info to help you get started with a core set:
      https://www.wwgoa.com/article/7-must-have-router-bit-types/

      Paul
      WWGOA Video Membership

      We’d love to have you be a part of our community. We are convinced you will enjoy the benefits of becoming a member and having access to the best instructional how to videos and professional tips. We would like to offer you a special promotion for your first-year membership.

      https://go.wwgoa.com/C13441

      Reply
  54. niky

    great article
    i just both a used Dewalt router and tripped on your tips
    and i’m thankful for them since i m a novice with this tool

    Reply
    • Customer Service

      This is a judgment call. The convenience of cordless is aluring, especially with a trim router, but I generally stick with corded routers so that I do not have to buy new batteries or replace a router when the battery technology is updated. But if you use a hand-held router away from a bench a lot, particularly in on-site (out of shop) work, then a cordless router is a great option. Paul

      Reply
    • Customer Service

      Hello Mike,

      This is a judgment call. The convenience of cordless is aluring, especially with a trim router, but I generally stick with corded routers so that I do not have to buy new batteries or replace a router when the battery technology is updated. But if you use a hand-held router away from a bench a lot, particularly in on-site (out of shop) work, then a cordless router is a great option.

      Hope this helps!

      Paul
      Woodworkers Guild of America Video Membership

      We’d love to have you be a part of our community. We are convinced you will enjoy the benefits of becoming a member and having access to the best instructional how to videos and professional tips. We would like to offer you a special promotion for your first-year membership.

      https://go.wwgoa.com/C12711

      Reply
  60. John Skinner

    I’m new to routering, how do I go about doing lettering with my handheld, and what is the best bit to use. Thank you for any help you can give me.

    Reply
  63. Chuck

    I read a lot of beginner router articles but they all lack bit placement, where it should meet the would, height of the bit should be against the material, etc…

    Reply
  64. Beverly Burton

    Great article. I am a female who likes to mke furniture and recycle and making things out of other things, for instance, I made a coffee table out of an old door. My husband bought me the smaller fixed based router foe christmas and I still have trouble keeping the router in my hands because they ate obviously smaller than a man’s. Any suggestions?

    Reply
    • Craig

      Beverly, you want to try cotton gloves with rubber pals and fingers. Great grip with less effort. I’ve used the when lifting heavy wood and boxes and they really helped by not requiring as much strength.

      Reply
    • DONALD C OWENS

      I am buying a base plate for my router from http://www.makeawoodsign.com for my Craftsman. It is a plastic plate that attaches to the bottom of the router and it has two handles that should make it easier for you to handle the tool.

      Reply
  67. Gael

    So if I have a stationary router (i.e. mounted pointing up I) should route the outside edge in the clockwise direction? Is this correct??

    Reply
    • Customer Service

      Hi Gael. You want to feed your work in the opposite direction that the cutter is spinning so that the feed force provides opposition to the cutter force. With a table mounted router you would feed the work piece from right to left. When routing on the outside edge of a circular piece you would rotate the work piece in a counter-clockwise direction.
      Thanks
      Paul-WWGOA

      Reply
  71. Pete lewis

    How do you control the dust when working off the router table for example making 3/4” rabbits

    Reply
    • Customer Service

      This can be difficult. I normally just where as dust mask in this situation, let the chips fly, and clean them up when I’m done. You could also look for a router that has integrated dust collection in the base and attach it to a shop vacuum. Dust collection is a big reason why I do as much router work as possible at the router table where I can better control dust, but of course sometimes hand held routing is necessary.
      Paul-WWGOA

      Reply
  72. Brent Constance

    i got a milwaukee 1 3/4 hp is it ok for a router table?i also have a rockler router table plate but can’t find to use for dovetail use or a plate for my router with a spot to use guides in it.

    Reply
    • Customer Service

      Hi Brent. That router should be fine for use in a router table, assuming that it has a fixed base. Sometimes it can be tricky to match up a router with a plate, but I’d suggest taking both components to a Rockler store to get you situated. If you don’t have a Rockler store nearby, then you might want to just buy a blank router plate and drill it out to match your router’s base.
      Thanks
      Paul-WWGOA

      Reply
    • Customer Service

      Hello Loren,

      We apologize that you were not able to access the chart. The chart is also within the article further down the page.

      Thanks,
      Becky WWOGA Video Membership

      Reply
  74. Renzo Risotto

    Very interesting work. I think it would be great to add some films with examples of use and cases to the page. This is very important for the begginers. Have a nice day!

    Reply
    • Customer Service

      Hi Renzo. Thank you for your feedback. I will forward your suggestions on. We appreciate your comments.
      Thanks
      Jean-WWGOA Video Membership

      Reply
  77. Michele piatek

    Never used mine yet, this might help me do a better job on my wood pieces.

    Reply
    • Customer Service

      Hi Jose. If you are asking if you can have the router spin the bit in the opposite direction, no, I’ve never heard of this.
      Thanks
      Paul-WWGOA

      Reply
    • David

      A trim router is basically a fixed base but smaller in size overall (and less HP) so it is easier to handle. Conversely, it will not handle large jobs well at all. Usually used for trimming laminate tops or edge banding, not heavy dadoes, rabbits and shaping.

      Reply
  81. kirillos

    i am a beginer on woodworks as a hobist. You make great job. thank you.

    Reply
  83. Robert

    Hello, I want to make a tray with a recessed area within the board (oak) and leave a 1/2″ “lip”. The mat is a good idea for all outside work but what find of a “jig” will work (to gauge) for what I want to do?

    Thanks Bob

    Reply
    • Customer Service

      Thanks for your question. Yes, a plunge router is a much better choice for sign making, and much easier for a beginner in particular.

      Reply
    • Customer Service

      Hi, Blaine. There are a variety of dovetail and rabbet bits available. You need to know the dovetail angle that you desire, or that your jig requires, as well as the dimensions of your rabbet, in order to choose the right bits. Go to a good supplier such as a woodworking specialty store and they can guide you through the process of selecting the right bits that your projects require.

      Reply
  90. roger wachal

    I purchased a B/D1-1/4 HP,Model 7613 at a yard sale ,along with router/Jig saw table model 76-401 .
    The router has been used,but the table has not.
    no book on router,.
    did I make a poor choice ?

    Reply
    • Customer Service

      Hi, Roger. If these tools are in good shape they serve you well for modest use. You might never need to upgrade, and you’ll know if you do.

      Reply
    • Doug LaBombard

      Roger, you probably have the router manual problem solved by now, but I have found many many appliance, tools and other manuals either free and downloadable on the web or on the company site. I know I have at least 7 that were downloaded. This was an inexpensive (free) solution that was quick and easy

      Reply