Add Built-In Storage to Your Router Table Fence
When you're working at the router table, it's handy to have everything you need close by. But router bits, collet wrenches, pencils, and other setup accessories have a way of disappearing just when you need them.
Rather than constantly searching through drawers or walking across the shop for another tool, I decided to make better use of the space already available at my router table.
The solution was a router table fence with built-in storage.
By adding a wide base to the back of the fence, I created room for a dust collection port along with a pair of handy storage trays.
Now the router bits and accessories I use most often are right where I need them.
Start with a Wide Router Table Fence Base
The key to this design is the wide base at the rear of the router table fence.
Most router table fences have some room behind the fence faces for dust collection. By making this area a little wider, you can create a useful storage platform without adding another cabinet or organizer to your shop.
The extra space accommodates the dust collection port while leaving room for two small trays.
It's a simple way to turn an ordinary router table fence into a more versatile accessory.
Add Storage for Router Bits and Accessories
I divided the storage area into two trays, each serving a different purpose.
Router Bit Storage
The first tray holds the router bits I use most often.
I installed router bit inserts in the tray to keep the bits upright and organized.
This makes it easy to find the bit I need without searching through a drawer or carrying a separate bit case to the router table.
The inserts also provide designated locations for the bits, helping keep them separated and easier to identify.
Storage for Wrenches and Setup Tools
The second tray provides a convenient place for smaller accessories.
I use it to hold collets, router wrenches, pencils, and other items that are easy to misplace during setup.
Keeping these tools together saves time whenever I need to change a bit or make an adjustment.
Attach the Trays with Screws
The storage trays are fastened to the wide fence base with screws.
This keeps them securely attached while allowing them to be removed if I ever want to modify the arrangement.
You can size the trays to suit your particular fence and the accessories you want to store.
Just make sure they don't interfere with the fence adjustment hardware, dust collection connection, or the movement of the workpiece.
Add Magnetic Storage for a Steel Rule
One final detail makes this fence even more convenient.
I installed a couple of small rare-earth magnets on the back of the fence to hold a steel rule.
The rule is one of the tools I reach for most often when setting up the router table.
With the magnets, it has a dedicated storage spot and is always within easy reach.
Shop Tip: Keep loose tools and accessories clear of the router bit and cutting area. Before turning on the router, make sure everything stored on the fence is secure and can't vibrate loose or interfere with the workpiece.
A Simple Router Table Organization Upgrade
A router table fence doesn't have to do just one job.
By widening the rear base and adding a couple of storage trays, you can keep frequently used bits, wrenches, and setup tools close at hand.
The magnetic steel rule holder is another small detail that makes setup more convenient.
It's an easy router table upgrade that helps keep your workspace organized and lets you spend more time woodworking instead of searching for tools.
Build a Versatile Router Table
A well-designed router table makes edge shaping, joinery, and other routing operations easier and more accurate. This shop-built router table provides a dedicated workstation for your router, with practical features designed to make setup and use more convenient.
GET THE ROUTER TABLE PLANS → Upgrade Your Router Table Setup
