How to Use Wood Routers

Summary: A router is a woodworking tool used to hollow out an area in the face of a piece of wood. It is a tool particularly used by pattern makers and staircase makers, and consists of a broad-based wooden hand plane with a narrow blade projecting well beyond its base plate. Modern routers are often used in place of traditional moulding planes or spindle moulder machines for edge decoration of timber. Custom base plates, templates, or jigs (tools that help guide the router or the workpiece through a controlled motion) are usually needed for more complex cuts.

In woodworking, routers are versatile tools that can do many kinds of wood cuts and shaping of wood. In this free video series, a woodworking expert will teach you how to use and maintain a wood router properly and safely. From teaching what a router is to router safety and maintenance, this video has it all. You'll learn how to remove and install a variety of router bits, how to cut circles and straight lines, and how to use a router table. With these carpentry tips and techniques, you'll be able to start doing fine woodwork in no time!