POWER TOOLS
Routers
Routers shape edges, cut joinery, and follow templates — the most versatile power tool in a small woodworking shop. Browse guides covering router types, bits, setup, technique, projects, and troubleshooting.
11 guides
A router is a high-speed motor that spins a shaped cutter to profile edges, cut grooves and dadoes, follow templates for repeated parts, and cut joinery — dovetails, mortises, lock-miters — that no other power tool produces as cleanly.
Three things no other tool does in one pass: shape an edge, slot a precise depth, and trace a template for production runs.
Cordless vs. corded — choose by the job
- Cordless trim routers excel at edge profiles, flush-trimming, light dadoes, and mobile work where a cord could get in the way.
- Corded full-size routers handle heavy stock removal, larger bits, raised panels, and router-table work where torque and runtime matter.
Both are pro tools — match the router to the cut, not to your skill level.
Browse the guides below covering router selection and buying decisions, bit selection and use, setup and calibration, cutting techniques, jigs and templates, joinery work, troubleshooting, maintenance, project ideas, safety, and tips & tricks — from beginner basics to advanced craft.
Choosing Between a Cordless and Corded Router
Which One to Buy, When to Use It, and When Corded Wins
Which cordless router fits your battery ecosystem, what it can't do, and when to reach for your corded router instead.
Choosing the Right Dovetail Router Bit
Bit Selection, Jig Compatibility, and Setup That Actually Works
The right dovetail router bit depends on your jig. Learn which angle each requires, how to set depth for a clean fit, and what causes burning and tearout.
Must-Have Router Bits for Beginners: The Short List
The 4 router bits worth buying first, what each one cuts, and how to spend $60–80 on a set that covers 90% of beginner projects.
Router Bits: What Every Type Does and Which 5 to Buy
Router bits come in dozens of profiles, but five handle 80% of woodworking projects. Here's what each type cuts and which bits to buy at every price.
How to Use Router Guides
Set up and use router guides — edge guide, straight-edge clamp, and guide bushing — with offset calculations, feed direction, and common problem fixes.
Four Router Jigs Worth Building
The Four Jigs That Make a Router Repeatable
Build the four essential woodworking router jigs — T-square dado, circle-cutting, template, and mortising — with specific dimensions, materials, and setup tips.
Flatten Slabs with a Router Sled
Build One, Flatten Anything
Build a router sled and flatten wide slabs, warped boards, and live-edge pieces your planer can't touch. Materials, bit specs, and workholding included.
Choosing Your First Router Table
Which One to Buy, What Router to Mount, and How to Set It Up
Router tables give you both hands on the wood and consistent results across dozens of pieces. Here's which table, which router, and how to get started.
How to Use Router Templates
The Complete Guide to Guide Bushings, Offsets, and Making Your Own
Learn how router templates work, calculate guide bushing offsets, pick the right template material, and build accurate templates using the scoring method.
Straight Router Bits: Selection, Setup, and Technique
Choose the right straight router bit diameter, understand carbide quality, set your RPM, and cut clean dadoes, grooves, and mortises — without burning or tearout.
Choosing Your First Wood Router
Which Type to Buy, How It Works, and What to Make First
Wood routers cut edge profiles, dadoes, rabbets, and mortises that no other tool can match. Learn which router to buy and how to use it safely.