Workshop Router Tables and Router Accessories

A router table can be as simple as a flat plywood top clamped to your workbench with the router bolted to it. But a router table is such an important tool that it deserves a permanent place and a few more features. The cutting diagrams and materials list are available to download in this Online Extra. This project appeared in ShopNotes Issue 100.

This is a link to a Google 3D SketchUp drawing for a router table and cabinet made from birch plywood, edged with hardwood. Joints are simple dados. You will need the SketchUp software to download this drawing and its freely available online. We do not provide support for this software. Not all drawings have the measurements displayed but you can use the measurement tool in SketchUp to easily and accurately determine the dimensions of each lumber part. Most drawings do not have instructions, its assumed you can build it based on the completed drawing provided.

The Rolling Router Table - Making the most useful table in the shop.

This is a link to a Google 3D SketchUp drawing for a mobile router table with six drawers, designed to fit into bays beneath your workbench. You will need the SketchUp software to download this drawing and its freely available online. We do not provide support for this software. Not all drawings have the measurements displayed but you can use the measurement tool in SketchUp to easily and accurately determine the dimensions of each lumber part. Most drawings do not have instructions, its assumed you can build it based on the completed drawing provided.

This is a link to a Google 3D SketchUp drawing for a router table cabinet. You will need the SketchUp software to download this drawing and its freely available online. We do not provide support for this software. Not all drawings have the measurements displayed but you can use the measurement tool in SketchUp to easily and accurately determine the dimensions of each lumber part. Most drawings do not have instructions, its assumed you can build it based on the completed drawing provided.

This is a link to a Google 3D SketchUp drawing for a router table. You will need the SketchUp software to download this drawing and its freely available online. We do not provide support for this software. Not all drawings have the measurements displayed but you can use the measurement tool in SketchUp to easily and accurately determine the dimensions of each lumber part. Most drawings do not have instructions, its assumed you can build it based on the completed drawing provided.

Quite simply, if you have a router then you need a router table because a table will allow the woodworker to perform operations that would be virtually impossible without one.

Make these versatile bits more effective with this tall fence.

Two simple pieces of MDF is all it takes to help tackle two issues that trouble router tables dust and noise. Adding the back panel and door you see here is a straightforward upgrade to the ultimate router table and also gives it a cleaner look. This alternate design option is available to download in this Online Extra. This project appeared in ShopNotes Issue 100.

This is a link to a Google 3D SketchUp drawing for a portable router table. You will need the SketchUp software to download this drawing and its freely available online. We do not provide support for this software. Not all drawings have the measurements displayed but you can use the measurement tool in SketchUp to easily and accurately determine the dimensions of each lumber part. Most drawings do not have instructions, its assumed you can build it based on the completed drawing provided.

I drew these plans so anyone wishing to build my router table has a clear understanding of how it goes together. The ones you see below are thumbnails but I also have a much larger set available that you can download (zip format).

This is a fairly simple benchtop router table, more or less modeled after the one on The Router Workshop. The information at this link is very limited. Basic info to give you ideas with adaptations given by the web site author.

This router table sits on a Workmate, it is suitable for most small routers and can be made very easily, a powerbar can be fastened to one end and used as a switch for the router.

Build a full-featured router table that is portable, lightweight and easy to store with Roland Johnson

So this is what I came up with as a cheap, simple, accurate, and portable, router table solution. It is a sort of a cross between an article in the April 2005 Popular Woodworking magazine, a basic design by Pat Warner, and of course my own humble design skills round out the plan and bring it all together.

When shop space is scarce, a temporary workstation may be the best answer. That is why we like this idea for a portable router table top that you can quickly attach to the edge of your workbench, and then tuck away in storage when not in use.

Build a circle jig to cut perfect circles using your router.

The Quick & Easy Router Table is packed with many impressive features. But if you would like to upgrade it and make it even more versatile you can add a stand with adjustable shelves. And for the ultimate router table you can add a door and some drawers. The cutting diagrams and materials list are available to download in this Online Extra.

The project requires about a half sheet of plywood, a small supply of solid-wood lumber, a handful of hardware, a router mounting plate, and a router

Follow along and build yourself a multi-purpose router table guard.

A router table can be a pretty handy tool when it comes to cutting joinery. Dadoes, rabbets, grooves, and other simple cuts can easily be made using standard straight bits. But in the past few years, router bit manufacturers have come out with several new bits that open up some really interesting joinery possibilities.

Follow along at the link to build your own tapered sliding dovetail slot jig for your router.

Build a wall mounted router cabinet using this tutorial full of pictures. There are three pages to follow along with.

Build this french cleat, fully featured, compact router table that can easily be stored up and out of the way when not in use, freeing up valuable floorspace.

Build your own router table with these instructions. Lots of tips and what to avoid as well.

With this router table you can make more accurate cuts with the flat, solid-surface top.

Why buy a commercial jig when making one yourself will triple your enjoyment? First, you will experience the joy of building a useful shop fixture from nothing more than some scrap wood and a good idea. Second, you will enjoy the money you will save. And finally, as all woodworkers understand, you will have the satisfaction that comes with saying, I made it myself. The five jigs described here are all designed to deliver improved accuracy, control and adjustability for a lifetime of better routing.

Our sliding tabletop lets you guide your stock straight over a router bit.

The box fence - For safe use of large, horizontal bits.

At the link you can download the free plans to build this router table fence.