Router Edges — How to Create Decorative Woodworking Edges

John Billiou
3 min readFeb 9, 2022

Routing an edge of a material using a router is an excellent way to add decorative accents to a project. Once the edge is shaped, you can set the router blade to run parallel to the edge. The length of the straight edge will depend on the size of the rounded portion of the edge. When cutting an edge with a router, be sure to keep it tight against the sole plate. Keeping the straight edge flat is a good way to prevent any unwanted cuts in the edge of the router bit.

When using a router to cut an edge, the radius will vary depending on the thickness of the material. A small radius is appropriate for thin materials. A large radii will create a soft edge. When cutting large pieces, you will need to use a large cutter that has a higher initial cutting depth than you will need to make your final cut. For the best results, use a progressive cutting pattern, which will remove a millimetre or so of material with each pass.

A high-speed steel bit is typically sold as a starter. High-speed steel bits will wear down quickly, but carbide bits will retain a sharp edge longer. When choosing a cutter for a decorative edge, you should also consider the bearing guide that follows straight and curved edges. This will help to ensure a clean cut and prevent burns. Lastly, be sure to remember to move your router in a counter-clockwise direction when routing outside edges. This will keep the cut under control.

When it comes to cutting edges, using a round-over bit is a great solution for shaping edges. These router bits have a pilot that guides them along the edge of the wood. With a rounded-over cutter, you can easily adjust the depth of the cut with a knob. You may need to make several passes before you achieve the desired depth. If the edges are too sharp, you might need to adjust the router’s cutter to a lower-radius setting.

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Using a router is a great way to create a decorative edge for your project. With hundreds of bits and accessories to choose from, a router is the perfect tool for making this type of edge. You can easily use a router to create a beautiful edge. It’s also a good idea to know how to handle it properly. If you have any trouble using the router, it is recommended to seek out a professional.

You can place a round over bit in the router collet and position it on the edge of your workpiece. Once you’ve set the depth of your cut, adjust the height of the bit to achieve the right depth. When cutting a large piece, the first cut will have to be higher than the final. If you want to achieve a more precise result, you can also use a progressive cutting method. Unlike a saw, a router edge can be adjusted so that it is not distorted or marred.

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