Make a Simple Router Table Hold-Down

When you're routing joinery — particularly a long groove — keeping the workpiece flat against the router table is essential. If a solid-wood board bows or lifts at the middle or ends, the depth of the cut can change along its length.

This simple shop-made router table hold-down applies steady downward pressure to help keep the workpiece against the tabletop as it passes the router bit.

Turn Scrap Plywood into a Spring

The hold-down is made from two laminated scraps of plywood.

What makes the design work is the combination of holes and kerfs cut into the plywood. Together, they allow part of the hold-down to flex like a spring.

Positioned above the workpiece, this spring action applies downward pressure as the board passes underneath. That helps prevent the workpiece from lifting and keeps the routed cut at a more consistent depth.

Woodsmith Tip: Put Your Scraps to Work. This hold-down performs a job similar to a featherboard, but there's no special hardware required. It's easy to make from leftover plywood and can be sized to suit your setup.

Useful Beyond the Router Table

Although it's especially handy for routing grooves and other joinery, the same spring-action hold-down can also be useful at the table saw.

In either case, position the hold-down so it applies enough pressure to keep the workpiece against the table while still allowing it to feed smoothly. Make sure the hold-down and its mounting hardware remain safely clear of the cutter throughout the operation.

It's a simple accessory you can make from scraps, and an easy way to add better workpiece control to your shop.

— Shop Tip submitted by John Maynard Murphy, Texas

Add More Control to Your Machines

Hold-downs, featherboards, sleds, and other shop-made accessories can make woodworking operations more controlled and repeatable. Explore our collection of woodworking jigs and fixtures for the router table, table saw, bandsaw, drill press, and more.

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