Woodcraft routers are powerful tools that add precision and versatility to your projects, but understanding router direction is essential for safety and quality cuts. Whether you're using a router in woodworking freehand or mounted in a router table, knowing the proper feed direction is crucial for safety, control and achieving a professional finish. Let’s dive into the essential principles of router feed direction and how to optimize your technique.
How to Use a Router in Woodworking: Understanding Feed Direction
When using a handheld router, the bit spins clockwise when viewed from above. To maintain control and achieve the best cut quality, always feed the router against the bit’s rotation.
Routing Outside Edges
For external edges of a board, move the router right to left along the edge. This movement creates a counterclockwise cutting path when routing around the entire perimeter, ensuring even resistance and a smooth finish.
Routing Inside Cutouts
If you're cutting an internal shape, like the inner edge of a picture frame or cutout, the direction reverses. Move the router clockwise around the inside edge to maintain proper control.
This fundamental rule—feeding against the bit’s spin—keeps the router from pulling uncontrollably and ensures cleaner results.
How to Use a Router Table: Feed Direction Matters
Using a router table changes the router cut direction, as the bit is now upside down and spins counterclockwise. This reversal means the correct feed direction also changes.
Routing Outside Edges on a Router Table
For outside edges, move the workpiece from right to left across the bit. This movement presses the workpiece against the fence and ensures controlled cutting.
Routing Inside Cutouts on a Router Table
When working on inside cutouts, move the workpiece counterclockwise against the bit’s rotation. This technique mirrors handheld routing but considers the bit's reversed spin.
Climb Cutting: When and How to Use It
While feeding against the bit’s rotation is the safest and most predictable approach, occasionally, certain wood grains or materials may challenge that method. In these cases, a technique called climb cutting can help. It involves feeding the router with the bit’s rotation, which minimizes tear-out and creates smoother edges on tricky wood grains.
Be advised that climb cutting comes with risks. Since the router moves in the same direction as the bit’s spin, it can "climb" out of the cut, making it harder to control. This technique should only be used with caution. Be sure to:
- Secure your workpiece with clamps or jigs to prevent movement.
- Take shallow passes to reduce the risk of the router grabbing too aggressively.
- Use this technique sparingly and only when conventional routing produces unsatisfactory results.
Achieve Cleaner and Safer Router Cuts
Learning the proper feed direction is just the start. To truly master how to use a router in woodworking, practice is key. Start with scrap pieces of wood to get a feel for the tool’s resistance and control. Experiment with different types of cuts, from decorative edges to deep grooves, to build your confidence.
Additionally, always prioritize safety. Use appropriate protective gear, such as safety glasses and hearing protection, and make sure your router bits are sharp and well-maintained. A dull bit not only compromises the quality of your cuts but also increases the risk of kickback.
By mastering router feed direction and understanding the nuances of your tool, you’ll elevate your woodworking projects to the next level—with clean, professional cuts every time.
This article is an updated excerpt from "The Complete New Router Book for Woodworkers". ©2006 Handyman Club of America.
