How to Trim Plywood Edging Flush with a Router Jig
Adding solid-wood edging to plywood cabinets is a great way to conceal exposed plywood edges and create a durable, finished appearance. But trimming the edging flush after the cabinet is assembled can be tricky, especially near inside corners where a router's base doesn't have much support.
This simple shop-made router jig solves both problems. It provides a stable surface for the router while allowing you to trim hardwood edging close to inside corners without accidentally rounding over the outside corners.
A Router Jig for Flush-Trimming Plywood Edging
The jig is designed around a handheld router equipped with a 1/2"-diameter flush-trim bit. Two perpendicular jig faces register against the cabinet surfaces, keeping the router stable as you trim the edging.
The bit's bearing is positioned flush with the jig faces, allowing the cutter to remove the overhanging edging without cutting into the cabinet surfaces.
A notch beneath the top provides clearance for the edging, while a dowel handle gives you a secure grip and better control.
How to Build the Flush-Trim Router Jig
The jig is made from plywood, with separate pieces forming the top, bottom, and guide faces.
Start by cutting the plywood parts to size and forming the rabbets that create the necessary recesses. Assemble the jig with glue and screws.
Next, make the router baseplate. Use your router as a template to locate the mounting holes, drilling them slightly oversized to allow for adjustment.
The critical step is positioning the router so the flush-trim bit's bearing aligns precisely with both jig faces. This ensures the edging is trimmed flush with the cabinet surfaces.
Trim Hardwood Edging Right Up to the Corners
To use the jig, position it against the cabinet so the guide faces register on the workpiece. With the router running, carefully advance the cutter into the overhanging edging until the jig is fully seated against the cabinet surfaces.
The jig supports the router as you trim the edging flush, even near inside corners. Any small amount of wood remaining in a corner can be cleaned up with a sharp chisel.
It works equally well on outside cabinet surfaces, where the guide faces help prevent the router from tipping and rounding over the corners.
A Simple Solution for Cleaner Cabinet Edges
With this handy router jig, trimming hardwood edging after cabinet assembly becomes much easier. The stable support, accurate bit alignment, and ability to work close to corners make it a useful addition to any shop where plywood cabinets are a regular project.
More Router Tips & Techniques
The router is one of the most versatile tools in any woodworking shop. From shaping decorative edges and trimming hardwood edging to cutting precise joinery, there's almost no limit to what it can do. Explore more Woodsmith router tips, clever jigs, and practical techniques to get better results and make the most of your router.
READ MORE → Explore More Router Tips & Techniques
