A router table is one of my favorite tools for cutting smooth, accurate grooves. Even an ordinary straight bit can leave crisp edges and a clean, flat bottom.
For a good-fitting joint, however, two things matter: The groove needs to be accurately sized and positioned, and you need to maintain consistent control of the workpiece throughout the cut.
These four simple router table tips help me get better results.
Start with a Smooth Router Table Fence
A good groove starts with consistent contact against the router table fence.
Before routing, make sure the fence face is flat, smooth, and free of anything that might catch the workpiece as it passes the bit.
Maintaining steady contact with the fence keeps the groove a consistent distance from the edge of the workpiece.
Use a Featherboard for Better Control
A featherboard is an easy way to improve workpiece control and produce more consistent grooves. The key is putting the featherboard in the right location for the cut you're making.
When routing a groove in the face of a wide board, I attach the featherboard to the fence. It applies downward pressure and helps prevent the workpiece from riding up over the router bit.
If the workpiece needs to stand on edge, I move the featherboard to the router table. Now it applies sideways pressure, keeping the workpiece firmly against the fence.
In either position, the featherboard helps maintain consistent pressure so you can concentrate on feeding the workpiece smoothly through the cut.
Woodsmith Tip: Position a featherboard so it applies pressure before the workpiece reaches the router bit. It shouldn't press the workpiece into the bit or interfere with the cutter.
Set the Router Bit and Fence Accurately
Setting up a router table can be a little tricky because you're measuring from a round router bit rather than a flat surface.
For more precise adjustments, I use a height gauge and setup blocks.
A height gauge makes it easier to establish the bit's projection above the table, while setup blocks provide a reliable reference for positioning the fence.
Take the time to get these settings right and then make a test cut in scrap that's the same thickness as your project material. Check the location and fit of the groove before routing the actual workpieces.
Woodsmith Tip: Always disconnect the router from power before making adjustments near the router bit.
Use a Push Block for Small or Narrow Workpieces
Small and narrow workpieces can be difficult to control safely at the router table.
Rather than trying to guide them with your fingers, use a notched push block.
The notch captures the end of the workpiece to push it through the cut, while the bottom of the push block provides downward pressure.
This gives you better control while keeping your hands farther from the router bit.
Better Grooves Start with Better Control
Clean router-cut grooves don't require complicated equipment. Start with a smooth, flat fence, use featherboards to maintain consistent pressure, take the time to accurately set the bit and fence, and use a push block when handling smaller parts.
Those simple steps make it much easier to rout grooves that are straight, crisp, and consistently sized.
