How to Use a Router to Make a Cross in Wood

A router are a fairly safe tool, if used properly, and can create perfect edges on wood and precision pattern cutting. Routers can be used with a large variety of bits so that you can choose the type of cuts to make in your wood. You can shape wood, cut it, dado it and decorate it in many different patterns and designs. A router can make fancy cuts using specialty bits or perform simple procedures like cutting straight lines. Whatever project you are attempting, always wear gloves to protect your fingers and goggles to protect your eyes.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• 3/4-inch flat bottom bit Wood piece Rubber pad Pencil Straight edge

1. Install a 3/4-inch flat bottom bit into the router. Tighten the chuck. Turn the shoe to adjust the depth of your bit. If your wood piece is an inch thick, adjust the bit so it takes off only a 1/2-inch depth of wood and doesn't cut clear through it.

2. Lay your wood piece on a rubber pad to prevent the wood from sliding. Use a sharp pencil and a straight edge to design a cross on the wood.

3. Plug in the router and turn it on. Lay the router flat on the base. Once you start to cut, do not let the router tilt. It must stay flat, or your cuts will be off.

4. Hold the two handles firmly, or place one hand on top of the router and one on the base holding it down. Find the hold that is most comfortable for you and the hold that keeps the router the sturdiest.

5. Begin pushing the router into the wood following the outline of the cross. Cut out the cross outline first.

6. Remove the top layer of wood inside the cross outline. Continue moving the router around the shape until you've created a completely indented cross in the wood.

Tips & Warnings

• When using the router, route your lines moving clockwise. When removing wood from the interior of an outline, route counterclockwise.
• Never try to remove too much wood at one time. Move the router over the area a few times to ensure that the bit doesn't burn from too much friction.