Craftsman Routing Table: Precise Woodworking

Craftsman routing table represents a crucial component for efficient woodworking projects. Precise cuts are attributes of craftsman routing table because it allows woodworkers to shape edges accurately. Router bits are the components of routing table that determine the type of cut made. The fence is a critical part of the craftsman routing table, which ensures the wood piece remains aligned and stable.

Hey there, fellow woodworkers! Ever feel like you’re wrestling an alligator when trying to route freehand? That’s where the magic of a router table comes in, especially when it’s sporting the iconic Craftsman name. For generations, Craftsman has been the trusty sidekick in workshops across the land, known for tools that are as reliable as your grandpa’s advice (and hopefully a little more up-to-date!).

But what exactly is a router table? Think of it as a stage for your router, turning it from a handheld beast into a precision instrument. It’s basically an upside-down router mounted to a table, giving you a stable surface and fence to guide your work. No more white-knuckle grips or hoping for the best!

Why would you want one? Well, let’s count the ways:

• Accuracy is King: Say goodbye to wobbly edges and hello to cuts so straight, they’d make a ruler jealous.
• Safety Dance: Router tables keep your hands safely away from the spinning bit, which is always a plus unless you’re auditioning for a pirate movie.
• Big Projects, No Problem: Trying to edge-route a massive tabletop by hand? Good luck! A router table offers the stability you need for those larger-than-life projects.
• Copy, Paste, Repeat: Need to make ten identical cabinet doors? A router table lets you dial in your settings and crank out perfect copies with ease. It is useful for repetitive cuts.

Now, let’s talk table types. There’s a whole router table family out there!

• Benchtop Router Tables: These are the compact and portable cousins, perfect for smaller workshops or taking on the road. They might not have all the bells and whistles, but they get the job done.
• Floor-Standing Router Tables: The heavy hitters. These offer maximum stability and workspace, ideal for serious woodworkers who need a dedicated routing station.
• DIY Router Tables: For the adventurous souls! Building your own table lets you customize every aspect, but it requires some woodworking know-how (and maybe a bit of patience).

Table Top Material: The Foundation of Your Routing Success

The table top is where the magic happens, folks! It’s the flat surface upon which your woodworking dreams (and projects) take shape. When it comes to Craftsman router tables, you’ll typically encounter three main materials: MDF, laminate, and sometimes, if you’re lucky, cast iron.

• MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard): This is often the most common and economical choice. MDF is prized for its smooth, consistent surface, making it great for ensuring your workpieces glide effortlessly. However, MDF can be susceptible to moisture, causing it to swell or warp over time. So, keep that spillage to a minimum, alright?

• Laminate: Usually, you’ll find a laminate coating over an MDF core. Laminate adds a layer of durability and moisture resistance to the MDF. It’s also easier to clean, which is a definite plus when you’re dealing with sawdust and grime.

• Cast Iron: Now, we’re talking! Cast iron is the gold standard for router table tops. It’s incredibly flat, heavy, and vibration-dampening. This means your router table will remain stable, even when you’re working with larger or more demanding projects. The downside? Cast iron router tables can be expensive and, well, heavy. So, make sure you have a buddy (or a forklift) to help you move it into your shop!

Router Mounting Plate: Where the Power Meets the Table

The router mounting plate is the critical link between your router and the table top. It’s a plate (duh!) that sits flush with the table, providing a stable and secure platform for your router.

• Material Matters: Mounting plates are typically made from phenolic or aluminum. Phenolic is a durable, non-metallic material that’s resistant to warping and vibration. Aluminum is another excellent choice, known for its strength and heat dissipation.

• Thickness is Key: A thicker mounting plate will provide greater stability and reduce vibration. Look for a plate that’s at least 3/8 inch thick for optimal performance.

• Flush Fit is a Must: The mounting plate needs to sit perfectly flush with the table top. Any unevenness can cause your workpieces to catch, leading to inaccurate cuts and potential safety hazards.

Fence: Your Guiding Light

The fence is an adjustable guide that runs parallel to the router bit. It helps you make straight, consistent cuts, ensuring your projects come out looking professional.

• Adjustability is Essential: Look for a fence that’s easy to adjust and lock into place. Features like split fences (where the infeed and outfeed sides can be adjusted independently) and micro-adjustments are a major plus.

• Locking Mechanisms: A secure locking mechanism is vital. You don’t want the fence to shift mid-cut, potentially ruining your workpiece (and your day).

• Material Quality: A straight and rigid fence is crucial for accuracy. Avoid fences that are flimsy or prone to flexing.

Miter Slot: Adding Angled Cuts to Your Repertoire

The miter slot is a channel that runs perpendicular to the fence. It’s designed to accommodate a miter gauge, allowing you to make angled cuts with precision.

• Standard Sizes: Most miter slots are a standard size (typically 3/4 inch wide and 3/8 inch deep), ensuring compatibility with a wide range of miter gauges and other accessories.

• Compatibility is Key: Before purchasing a router table, make sure the miter slot is compatible with your existing miter gauge or any accessories you plan to use.

Dust Collection Port: Breathe Easy, Route Clean

Woodworking can be a dusty business, and inhaling wood dust is not good for your health. A dust collection port is an essential feature for keeping your shop clean and your lungs happy.

• Compatibility: The dust collection port should be compatible with standard vacuum hoses (typically 2 1/4 inch or 4 inch).

• Port Design: Look for a port that’s strategically positioned to capture as much dust as possible.

On/Off Switch: Safety at Your Fingertips

The on/off switch should be easily accessible and located in a safe place, away from the router bit.

• Paddle Switches: Paddle switches are a popular choice, as they can be easily activated with a quick push of your hand or knee.

• Remote Switches: Some router tables come with remote switches, allowing you to turn the router on and off from a distance. This can be especially useful for larger tables.

Legs/Stand: A Solid Foundation

A stable base is essential for a safe and accurate routing experience.

• Stability is Paramount: The legs or stand should be sturdy and well-constructed, preventing the table from wobbling or tipping over.

• Adjustable Feet: Adjustable feet are a great feature, allowing you to level the table on uneven surfaces.

Choosing the Right Router for Your Craftsman Router Table

So, you’ve got yourself a shiny new (or maybe wonderfully seasoned) Craftsman router table! Excellent choice. But now comes the big question: what’s going to power this beast? Choosing the right router isn’t just about picking the flashiest one; it’s about finding a harmonious match that’ll let you glide through projects like a hot knife through butter. Let’s dive into what makes a router router-table-compatible.

Factors to Mull Over When Picking a Router

• Horsepower: The Muscle Behind the Cut: Think of horsepower like the engine in your car. A compact car (1-1/4 HP) is perfectly fine for errands, but you’ll need a truck (3+ HP) to tow a boat. For smaller projects like trimming edges or making decorative grooves, a router with 1-1/4 to 2-1/4 HP will do the trick. But if you’re planning on tackling beefier tasks like raised panel doors or heavy-duty joinery, you’ll want to step up to a 2-1/4 to 3+ HP router. Don’t underestimate the power of power!
• Variable Speed Control: The Key to Versatility: This is where the magic happens. Different router bits and materials require different speeds. Routing hardwoods at high speeds can lead to burning, while running large-diameter bits at too low a speed can cause the router to bog down. Variable speed control lets you dial in the perfect speed for each task, giving you cleaner cuts and preventing damage to your workpiece or your bits.
• Collet Size: The Grip that Matters: Router bits come with different shank diameters, and the collet is what grips the shank securely. The most common sizes are 1/4 inch and 1/2 inch. A 1/2-inch collet offers a more secure grip, especially for larger bits, reducing vibration and improving cut quality. If you plan on using a variety of bits, including larger profile cutters, opt for a router with a 1/2-inch collet. You can always use a collet reducer to accommodate 1/4-inch shank bits.

Decoding the Router: Key Parts to Know

• Router Base: Flat and Flush is the Name of the Game: The router base is what sits flush against the router mounting plate on your Craftsman router table. Make sure the base is perfectly flat and free of any obstructions. A wobbly router base is a recipe for inaccurate cuts and frustration.
• Router Collet: The Bit-Holding Champion: As mentioned above, the collet is the part that holds the router bit. Ensure you’re using the correct collet size for your bits, and always tighten it securely with the proper wrenches. A loose collet can cause the bit to fly out, which is extremely dangerous.
• Router Motor: The Heart of the Beast: The motor is what provides the power to spin the router bit. Pay attention to the horsepower rating, as discussed earlier. A powerful motor will make your routing tasks easier and more efficient, especially when working with hardwoods or large bits.

Craftsman Compatibility: Routers That Play Well Together

While Craftsman router tables are designed to be fairly universal, some routers naturally pair better. (Please note, due to the ever-evolving nature of router models, specific recommendations can become outdated quickly. Always double-check compatibility with the mounting plate dimensions and features.)

Look for routers with a flat base and a standard bolt pattern that matches the pre-drilled holes on your Craftsman router table’s mounting plate.

Essential Router Table Accessories: Expanding Your Capabilities

So, you’ve got your shiny new (or maybe gently used) Craftsman router table. Awesome! But just like a superhero needs their gadgets, your router table needs accessories to truly unlock its potential. Think of these less as optional extras and more as essential sidekicks, ready to boost your woodworking game. Let’s dive into the must-have accessories that will take your Craftsman router table from “meh” to “marvelous”!

Router Bits: The Sharp End of the Stick

First up, we have router bits – the rockstars of the router table world. These are the cutting tools that actually do the shaping, and there’s a whole universe of options out there. You’ve got your straight bits for clean edges, roundover bits for softening those edges, dovetail bits for creating super-strong joints (think fancy drawers), and chamfer bits for adding a decorative angled edge. It’s like a candy store for woodworkers!

When it comes to choosing bits, material matters. You’ll generally find bits made from high-speed steel (HSS) or carbide. Carbide bits are the champs here – they’re much more durable and stay sharper longer, especially when working with hardwoods or abrasive materials. HSS bits are more budget-friendly, but they’ll dull faster. Think of carbide as the investment piece and HSS as the everyday option.

And how are these magical bits used? Straight bits are workhorses for creating grooves and rabbets. Roundover bits transform sharp edges into smooth curves, making your projects feel more refined. Dovetail bits create interlocking joints that are both beautiful and incredibly strong. Chamfer bits add a decorative bevel, perfect for adding a touch of elegance to your woodworking projects.

Featherboards: Your New Best Safety Buddy

Now, let’s talk safety. Router tables can be a bit intimidating, and keeping your fingers away from the spinning bit is priority number one. Enter the featherboard – your new best friend when it comes to safety. These clever devices hold your workpiece firmly against the fence and table, preventing it from kicking back or wandering off course.

You’ll find different types of featherboards: single, dual, and magnetic. Single featherboards apply pressure in one direction, while dual featherboards provide even more secure hold. Magnetic featherboards are super easy to attach and adjust, making them a great option for beginners.

Using featherboards is simple: just position them so they apply gentle pressure to your workpiece, guiding it smoothly past the bit. They’re like an extra set of hands, keeping your work safe and your cuts accurate.

Miter Gauge: Angles Made Easy

Want to make precise angled cuts or tackle some joinery? A miter gauge is your go-to accessory. This tool slides along the miter slot on your router table, allowing you to make accurate crosscuts and angled cuts.

When choosing a miter gauge, look for features like accuracy and adjustability. A good miter gauge will have a solid, stable head and a smooth-gliding bar. Some miter gauges also have adjustable stops, allowing you to make repeatable cuts with ease. This is particularly useful for making multiple pieces of the same length or angle.

Starting Pin/Post: Curve Control

Routing curved workpieces can be tricky, but a starting pin or post makes it much easier and safer. This simple accessory provides a pivot point for your workpiece, allowing you to control the cut as you guide it around the bit.

The starting pin helps you avoid bit gouging, especially when beginning a cut on a curved edge. You simply hold your workpiece against the pin, start the router, and then slowly pivot the workpiece into the bit. Once the cut is started, you can remove the pin and continue routing. It is essential for any project.

Mastering Router Table Techniques: From Edge Routing to Joinery

Alright, buckle up, woodworking wizards! Now that you’ve got your Craftsman router table all set up, it’s time to actually use the thing! We’re going to dive into some techniques, from the basics that’ll make your projects look polished to some slightly fancier moves that’ll seriously impress your friends (and maybe even yourself).

• Basic Routing Techniques:

  • Edge Routing: Think of this as the router table’s bread and butter. It’s all about creating a smooth, decorative edge on your wood. Whether you’re rounding over a tabletop or adding a fancy profile to a picture frame, edge routing is where it’s at. A pilot bearing bit will be your best friend here!
  • Rabbeting: This is your go-to for making strong joints or creating recesses for things like glass panels. A rabbet is basically a step cut along the edge of the board, and your router table makes it a breeze.
  • Grooving: Need to slide in a shelf or create a decorative channel? Grooving is the answer! Use a straight bit or a specialized grooving bit to cut a channel right into the surface of your wood. This is super handy for things like drawer bottoms and panel inserts.

• Intermediate Routing Techniques (Optional, depending on article length):

  • Dovetail Joints: Okay, now we’re talking! Dovetail joints are the gold standard for strong, beautiful joinery. Making them on a router table takes some practice and a dovetail jig, but the results are totally worth it.
  • Raised Panel Doors: Want to take your cabinet-making skills to the next level? Raised panel doors are a classic touch that can add serious elegance to any project. A router table with a raised panel bit makes this process much easier.

• Controlling Cutting Depth and Feed Rate:

  • Cutting Depth: This is crucial. Adjust your bit height carefully to get the exact depth of cut you need. Too deep, and you risk tear-out or even damaging your bit. Too shallow, and you’ll have to make multiple passes. A good rule of thumb is to take multiple shallow passes rather than trying to hog out too much material at once.
  • Feed Rate: Think of this as the speed at which you move the wood across the bit. Feed too fast, and you’ll get a rough, uneven cut. Feed too slow, and you risk burning the wood or dulling your bit. The sweet spot is a smooth, steady pace that lets the router bit do the work. For hardwoods, a slower feed rate is usually better, while softwoods can handle a slightly faster pace. Always listen to the sound of the router; it should sound like it’s working, but not straining.

Safety First: Taming the Beast – Operating Your Craftsman Router Table with Confidence

Alright, let’s talk safety! Router tables are fantastic tools, but they demand respect. Think of them as a powerful ally in your woodworking journey, not something to take lightly. Ignoring safety can turn a fun project into a trip to the emergency room faster than you can say “kickback.” So, let’s gear up with the knowledge to keep those fingers safe and sound!

Essential Safety Procedures: Your Woodworking Armor

First and foremost, safety glasses are non-negotiable. Imagine tiny wood shrapnel aiming for your eyeballs – not a pretty picture, right? Protect those peepers! Next, crank up some hearing protection. Routers are loud, and prolonged exposure can damage your hearing over time. A good set of earmuffs or earplugs is a small price to pay for long-term hearing health.

Before you even think about turning on the router, double-check that it’s securely mounted to the table. A wobbly router is a dangerous router. And make sure the table itself is stable – you don’t want the whole thing tipping over mid-cut.

Now, for the real heroes: featherboards and push sticks. These aren’t optional; they’re your defenders! Featherboards keep the workpiece snug against the fence and table, preventing it from wandering off course. Push sticks let you guide the wood safely past the bit, keeping your precious fingers a safe distance away. Speaking of distance, a golden rule: Never, ever reach over or around the router bit while it’s spinning. Just don’t do it. If you need to adjust something, turn off the router and wait for it to come to a complete stop.

Safe Handling of the Workpiece: Guiding the Wood with Finesse

Those push sticks and featherboards we mentioned? They’re not just there for show. Use them religiously! They’re your connection to the wood, giving you control while keeping you out of harm’s way. Another key point: don’t force the workpiece. Let the router bit do the work. If you’re struggling to push the wood through, something’s wrong. Stop, assess the situation, and adjust accordingly. Forcing it can lead to kickback or other nasty surprises.

The Importance of Dust Collection: Battling the Invisible Enemy

Wood dust might seem harmless, but it’s a sneaky health hazard. Breathing in wood dust can cause all sorts of respiratory problems, from allergies to more serious conditions. That’s why a properly functioning dust collection system is crucial. Hook up your shop vac or dust collector to the router table and let it suck up that fine dust before it has a chance to invade your lungs. Think of it as protecting yourself from an invisible enemy! You can purchase dust collection systems at your local hardware store or online.

Maintenance and Troubleshooting: Keeping Your Router Table in Top Shape

Let’s face it, even the best tools need a little TLC to keep humming along. Your Craftsman router table is no exception. Think of it like your car – a little maintenance goes a long way in preventing bigger problems down the road. Plus, a well-maintained router table not only lasts longer but also delivers more precise and enjoyable woodworking experiences. So, grab your wrench and let’s get started!

Cleaning and Lubrication: A Dust-Free Zone

Wood dust is the bane of every woodworker’s existence, and your router table is a prime target. Regularly cleaning the table top and fence is crucial.

• Table Top and Fence: Use a brush or vacuum to remove loose dust. For stubborn residue, a damp cloth followed by a dry one works wonders. A coat of paste wax a few times a year will help keep it slick.
• Moving Parts: Just like the Tin Man needed oil, so do the moving parts of your router table. A little bit of lubricant on fence adjustments, height mechanisms, and other moving parts will keep things smooth and prevent frustrating sticking. Use a dry lubricant to avoid attracting dust. A little goes a long way!

Checking and Tightening Fasteners: Stay Secure

Nuts and bolts have a sneaky habit of loosening over time, especially with the vibrations of a router table in action. A periodic check is a must!

• The Once-Over: Give your router table a once-over, paying attention to screws and bolts on the fence, router mounting plate, legs/stand, and any other adjustable components.
• Snug it Up: Use the appropriate wrench or screwdriver to tighten any loose fasteners. Be careful not to overtighten – you don’t want to strip the threads. Just a firm snug is all you need.

Troubleshooting Common Problems: When Things Go Awry

Even with regular maintenance, problems can still pop up. Here are a few common issues and how to tackle them:

• Vibration:
  • The Culprit: Vibration can be caused by loose components, an unbalanced router bit, or even a buildup of sawdust.
  • The Fix: Check that the router is securely mounted to the plate and that the mounting plate is securely attached to the table. Inspect the router bit for any damage or imbalance. Clean the table. Try a slower speed setting.
• Inaccurate Cuts:
  • The Culprit: An inaccurate fence or a misaligned router bit are usually to blame.
  • The Fix: Use a reliable square to check if the fence is perpendicular to the table. Adjust as needed. Ensure the router bit is centered in the opening of the mounting plate and is properly aligned with the fence.
• Motor Overheating:
  • The Culprit: Insufficient ventilation or overfeeding the router can cause the motor to overheat.
  • The Fix: Make sure the router has adequate airflow around it. Avoid pushing the workpiece too quickly – let the router bit do the work. If the router continues to overheat, consider taking smaller passes or using a different bit. Also, ensure that there is good ventilation in the area in which you are using your router table.

By following these simple maintenance and troubleshooting tips, you’ll keep your Craftsman router table in top condition, ensuring years of precise and enjoyable woodworking projects. Now get back to the shop and make some sawdust!

So, whether you’re a seasoned network engineer or just diving into the world of routing, I hope this gave you a solid handle on craftsman routing tables. They’re not as scary as they might seem at first glance. Now go forth and route with confidence!