A router table is used by woodworkers for cutting and making various wood designs. Since some of these units are expensive, it is a good idea to build a router table yourself.
Required Tools and Materials
Split fence core
2 T-tracks
Miter track
Router table insert
Straight edge guide
Router with straight bit
(2) 1 foot scraps of wood, 3/8 inch thick
(2) 1/2-foot scraps of wood, 3/8 inch thick
Glue
Jigsaw
Tape measure
Construction pencil
) 1/8-inch plywood, 3 by 2 feet
Workbench
Clamps
Trace a 9 x 12 inch insert in the middle of the plywood. Use the jigsaw to cut out the insert.
Step 2
Stick 4 wood scraps that are 3/8 inch thick in the cutout’s four sides. This will produce a hedge your table insert will sit on.
Step 3
When the table is in place, get an aluminum router plate and screw it on. This will have 3 center rings for various openings.
Step 4
On the plywood’s long side four inches from one side to the next, add a groove. You have to use a router with the straight bit. To build a router table, you have to put in the miter track at the groove.
Step 5
Use the router to cut the T-tracks. Create these grooves on both sides of the shorter sides. It must also be four inches in. The T-tracks will be mounted flush, allowing the fence to get on. If you check, they are flushed at the end, crossing the table top halfway through.
Step 6
Use a split fence to ride on the table tracks. Make sure the split fence has black knobs so it will be kept in position. You can use the wood fence core or an aluminum one.
Step 7
Join the table top router on a workbench. Use clamps to keep it in place. You can also fasten it to the table legs. You can make the legs by using a box made of wood. Just make sure it is big enough to bear the router table.
Tips and Warnings
Various woods can be used for a fence core, but one of the best is Russian birch. To avoid wear and tear, stick several wood layers together.
After you build a router table, feel free to try other styles. Some tables are table tops while others are table extensions. You can also make a folding table so it can be stored when not in use. These are more complex to build though.
