1. Making Wood Router Bits
Wood router bits are often called "bits," but they may have several different names depending on the specific brand. There are two types of bits, straight/straight-shank bits (SSB) and plunge/curved bits (PCB). Both these terms are generally interchangeable, although some brands may call their bits differently.
2. What are Wood Router Bits?
A wood bit is a tool designed to cut out shapes from boards – essentially making decorative pieces for furniture or building projects. These tools are typically made from metal with various cutting edges. When cutting a part of the wood board, the bit will act as the blade and guide the shape of the project. Typically, bits come as a single-sided or double-sided cutter, with each side containing a slightly different set of cuts. However, if a single edge is insufficient, some routers will allow the user to switch between two sides of the same bit.
3. How do You Use a Wood Router Bit?
Use the following steps to use a router bit effectively:
Step 1: Attach Your Workpiece to Your Router Table
Set up your work area. Make sure everything is level, and you have enough space to move around freely. Start by attaching your workpiece to the base plate of your router table using screws, glue, nails, etc. Ensure that the screws are tight, and don't force the bit down onto the surface as you tighten them.
Step 2: Choose a Cutting Edge Shape
Choose a bit that fits well with the type of material you want to cut. Depending on the size of the project, you might choose a small bit for smaller projects or a more significant bit for larger ones. The depth of the cut you need to create also affects what kind of bit you should pick. A deeper cut means a wider hole; a shallower cut requires a narrower bit.
4. Choosing a Straight Shank vs. Curvy Shanks
Once you've decided on the right bit for your project, look at the back of the bit to determine whether it's curved or straight - the curve of the shank determines how the bit works. The bottom line here is that if you choose a bit with a curve, your cut will have a slight curve. That's okay! It doesn't mean you'll end up with a perfectly smooth contour. Instead, it gives you more options for shaping your final product since you can use more than one bit to get the desired effect.
5. Using a Bit with Different Sides
Some bits will have a single cutting edge while others have two. To find out which bit you're looking for, flip the bit over. Notice which edge of the bit is facing upwards. Since you'll only ever face one direction while working with a bit, having both sides is unnecessary unless you plan to change angles frequently.
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