Essential Router Skills: A NO BS Beginner's Guide to Woodworking

[@katzmosestools]

Products and Videos Discussed - *click read more* *Support what we do* at KMTools.com *Katz-Moses Tools Router Table* shop.kmtools.com/RouterTable *Router table + 6 in 1 Universal Trim Router Jig Discounted Bundle* shop.kmtools.com/RouterTableBundle *Router Bushings* kmtools.com/products/brass-router-guide-bushings-for-template-work *Spiral Router Bits in Depth - Ton of Super Slow Mo* kzbin.info/www/bejne/qZaknn9sotmkna8si=zs9fFMIbjOZpG0pd *Edge Profile Routing* kzbin.info/www/bejne/emecpJSZmcSsaJosi=45b2y4q0e4ovxIw5 *How to Avoid Router Kickback* kzbin.info/www/bejne/qprXfmChosuoY8ksi=IMYUMD-BqCNXFJfR *Template Routing In Depth* kzbin.info/www/bejne/aIaXgKNnrLyiaZYsi=VaR5cJFlQCGIpAxt *2 Minute Tuesday Router Depth Stops* kzbin.info/www/bejne/ZpOtnpSGbqaJa5Ysi=gTxbEVb5ZpGzlbV5 *Palm Router Buying Guide* kzbin.info/www/bejne/rWerineart-EbJIsi=oD0En235hJQO_Hn5 *Work Holding Blog* kmtools.com/blogs/news/workholding-methods *blog: uses for trim routers* kmtools.com/blogs/news/trim-router-uses?_pos=12&_sid=c4733ba4e&_ss=r *Full Size Router Table Plans (Free when you sign up for our newsletter in the Special Offers Section)* shop.kmtools.com/FullSizeRouterTableBuildPlans *Donate Now to The Katz-Moses Woodworkers with Disabilities Fund* shop.kmtools.com/DonateNow *The Katz-Moses Woodworkers with Disabilities Fund ABOUT* kmtools.com/pages/kmww-charity

[@AdamGreer]

Hoping to order a router table to the UK soon. Any news on the XL Aprons being back in stock?

[@sburgos9621]

I was trying to decide on whether to build a dedicated router table or to attach my router to my workbench which I already installed T track on. The only reason I was going to build one was because my table is about an inch thick and I thought that meant I would be sacrificing an inch in depth. I notice your router table is pretty thick as well. What is your suggestion and why?

[@just__dave]

Anyone else remember when TLC - you know, The LEARNING Channel? - used to show content like this? Where we actually LEARNED things? Thank you KM for giving us what we want and not what KZbin wants us to want! 👍

[@MeandMyStaffy]

I couldn't agree more with this comment. KZbin has dumbed us all down to the lowest common denominator.

[@stephennicholas7095]

Ive learned another about fatties and hoarders though.

[@mikeamboy7292]

A point worth noting; never bottom out a bit when putting it in the router collet. That allows heat to transfer up to the motor arbor. That is what burns the motor out. That was explained to me by a tool repairman years ago.

[@michaelheck9148]

Honestly, may have been one of the best videos that I have ever watched on KZbin. Straight forward sharing of knowledge. Thank you! I look forward to more of the No BS series!

[@katzmosestools]

Thank you my friend. I really appreciate it.

[@mwoody4560]

I love the idea of the no BS series. I’ll watch them all. I used to do woodworking for a living right after high school. Did that to pay for college. Then I was off for several years because I didn’t have the money. When my job caught up in wages I started collecting tools and doing woodworking as a hobby. All this spans 40 years. Reason for all this back info is even us old guys that been doing this for a while can learn something. You do this every day and have access to a larger variety of tools and other pro woodworkers. That means the time it takes you to gain experience and wisdom is shorter than it’ll take me, a weekend warrior. All that to say thanks, I love it.

[@narclem]

OH HELL UES WE WANT TO SEE MORE NO BS! Yes I’m shouting. The quality of delivery, content and media is outstanding and truly appreciated.

[@Kimze630]

God bless you for offering a video series designed for someone at the very beginning of their woodworking journey! I can not tell you how much time I have spent in tears because I couldn't find a "kindergarten" video on a specific tool or process. I have a planer, miter saw, band saw, table saw, router, drill press, etc.. So far, the only thing I have perfected is wasting wood trying to figure out how to use each tool. Please keep these videos coming!

[@georgetumillo446]

Thank you, thank you, thank you! It’s fantastic that you’re doing this no BS no sponsorship series because it’s very difficult for a newcomer to go through all of the Content out there looking for the gems, and this looks like it’s going to be one of them. Solid information that can immediately be put to use. You asked, so here is my wish list for the next things to cover. 14 inch bandsaw, tablesaws and dust collection for small workshops on a budget.

[@jrm523]

Thanks for this video. I recently purchased my first router and this is very helpful.

[@SandyMasquith]

Thank you Jonathan! I've been so intimidated by the router for so long. I think now I'm well armed to begin to tackle this amazing tool. I need to build a full-size router table and get a dedicated router for it. Pattern routing opens up SO many projects! I love this series. Please keep making these. Maybe you could do a no BS on hand saws? I know you carry a line of Japanese pull saws. I'm not so convinced those are the best for the new woodworker. I think the handle style common to western saws allows for better control. That is, obviously, just my opinion. I'd love to see a "no BS" explanation of hand saws. :)

[@robpatterson3325]

Great 'No BS' video. As a beginner in the shop, it's awesome to see experienced professionals passing on their knowledge to people getting started like me. I haven't used a router yet, but it's next on my list of tools to buy and this information will be invaluable. Thank you for sharing.

[@schlotdoglaser]

thanks for a video that isn't condescending. I am starting my journey with a router and I have learned more from you in 15 mins. than I have with any other video....thank!

[@lauranewton-sx6tl]

Thank you so much for doing this video. I think it's the 1st I've seen that has been beneficial to someone who didn't even know what a router was a year ago and I actually feel like I can do this! I would LOVE to se more in this series as I've just inherited a woodworking shop with tools I know nothing about! If there are more things I need Ai will definitely be buying from your shop to hopefully be a part of supporting your teachings! I GREATLY appreciate you!

[@christianbookter1016]

What a fantastic video! I learned some good things about my routers and bits. Thank you for doing this!

[@ianwootton2690]

Fantastic straight to the point and teaching with no 15 minutes of waffle to start the video keep it up.

[@csimet]

Great video. YT is full of junk and "sponsored" content that are more commercials than anything else. Your content is second to none in useful info. Routers are so handy I own 4 LOL... a corded palm for light work (with fixed & plunge and it fits into a small trim table I have), a cheap Ryobi 18V palm and a couple mid-sized with one in my large router table and the other with fixed & plunge for jobs the palm can't do. Some day I'll upgrade the router table motor to a 3+ HP. The Ryobi lives with a 1/4" round over or chamfer bit for easing edges... does a great job at that single task. Cheap, light and useful.

[@katzmosestools]

Yeah I have an unfair at vantage of the router table and router front hahaha. Love having dedicated router for certain bits.

[@larryhudlemeyer2617]

Dude, you the man! I'm not a carpenter by trade.....more like a "Jack-of-all-trades!" I appreciate being able to turn to "no-BS" instruction to help me in the workshop! Thanks for sharing! It just goes to show that old dogs can learn new tricks....I'll be the big 7-0 next month. Built a new porch/deck this past Summer. Time to move on to Winter projects....a park bench with red oak boards, then cabinet doors for a built-in cabinet I put in the space left by a home furnace....then, the key project....I've got to finish a Murphy Bed I had to put on-hold for a bit. Thanks for the help and advice!

[@vnatik]

Thank you! This is the exact kind of video-tutorial that I am missing and I love the most.

[@richragan4810]

Thank you! After 75 years I've learned that much of life is made up of reminders and open to new things. Thank you for both!

[@azking420]

I have missed content like this!!! Just the info, none of the extra fluff! I’ve got the attention span of a squirrel, so for me, this is the easiest form to follow. When there’s a lot of “coming up next” or teasers, it muddies up the waters and gets me lost. Love it! Thanks!

[@roscoejones303]

I've always been a bit cautious when thinking about approaching routers but this video helped A LOT! I'm sure I'll be watching this a few times as I look at purchasing my first router!

[@JoBo-ug6tf]

OMG - so THAT'S what the arrow is for on the base! That is so incredibly helpful (and about the straight bits and depths) because I have a bunch of work to do this weekend. TYSM!

[@woodrowsmith3400]

Jonathan...it just occurred to me that the trick where you use your pointed thumb and wrapped fingers to determine router bit direction will only work if you use your RIGHT hand. It is so common...and so commonly demonstrated. Everybody demonstrating this (quite effective, actually) method uses their right hand and I have certainly done that and taken for granted that you use your right hand. BUT...I have never seen or heard anyone specify this works only with your right hand! I would hate to hear that someone ruined a valuable piece of wood because they tried this trick left-handed, and then watched their router fly out of their hands and boogie across the shop like an airborne version of belt sander racing. I love your channel...love the info you impart. Appreciate how you cut to the chase. Thank you for your time and effort!

[@mariobueno3368]

If only someone would've explained this to me years ago, simple, straight and to the point...no bs! Excellent job KM please continue to create videos like these for beginners and the next generation of woodworkers.

[@PKSullivan]

As someone who's got some tools and is just looking to get into woodworking, I love the idea of the No BS series. Please keep it up, this was greatly informative and showed me just how badly I was using a router last year (oops). I'll be better in the future!

[@Bandit757]

Until now, I thought a router is what made my internet work! Seriously though, great video and very informative to one who is getting back to woodworking and realizing there is so much to learn/relearn Thanks!

[@ShaneMurrell-w6o]

Great intro to routers. One critique. No mention of speed adjustment. Understanding the correct speed for the material can save you in the long term on motor and bits.

[@jasonhagen]

This was fantastic! I’ll be waiting for the next No BS video. I wish these were more popular! Definitely a great learning experience. Thanks Jonathan for making these!

[@r55rhea]

This format is great! I appreciate the organized presentation and feel it was presented in “bullet point” items, which works for me. I like to get straightforward info and then if there are items I want more info on, I can research on my own. Thanks.

[@merlinsatrom6678]

Wow! I think I learned more about routers in the past few minutes than any other video!

[@dutchwalters4450]

No BS is just that. Great quick presentation easily followed. As an instructor at Rockler it gave me ideas for my two styles of router classes. Both will follow the no BS standard, with a little humor mixed in. As always you are one of the best in the industry. Stop by and visit if you're ever in Kennesaw GA.

[@ashleyberry857]

Incredibly helpful! Please do more of these get-to-the-point informational videos! I'd love to see one on table saws

[@ElizabethBeers]

RE the no BS approach: Love it! Keep 'em coming!

[@christianhenningsen1933]

Fantastic video, exactly what I was looking for as a novice woodworker that's never used a router but would like to buy one. Thank you for this, keep them coming!

[@johnjensen5540]

Fantastic video! Yes, please do more. Maybe on the table saw. It's often underestimated, especially by new wood workers.

[@BrianThorstad]

Solid, no BS info. Thank you. I enjoy the KM shop apron every time I walk into my shop, and the KM stop block often.

[@SomeDudeOnline]

@9:36 I've seen a handful of tips like this but what's always seemed easiest to me was to just look at the router bit. You can always tell which way it's going to make the cut so just make sure it's cutting in the direction you're pushing.

[@gilcd85]

Thank you Jonathan for creating high quality content! So many of the other channels turned into infomercials in recent years ("10 tools I didn't know I needed", "5 mistakes woodworkers make", etc.)

[@jaywimer4415]

Great video no bs! I am not a rookie but still learned something, thx. Too much of the world exists on greed and it was refreshing to gain knowledge without all the commercialization. Don’t be shy to add more real demo’s, it is one thing to hear but nice also to see…. Going to be a winning series🎉

[@josephpeightel2764]

I love the No BS series. I'd enjoy seeing more info regarding using the router in a table (like your portable table) where you move the workpiece rather than clamping the work and moving the router. But that's just me. Keep up the great work !

[@ravenheart1439]

I just love a router...can never stop learning...thank you John ....

[@katzmosestools]

Glad you enjoy it!

[@doozerakapuckfutin]

Could you please cover types of drills and there uses ? You opened my eyes to a new toll I need . Thank you .

[@BiggMo]

One of the most overlooked accessories for trim routers is the “offset base”. Jonathan… order one, it’s a game changer

[@abecks8093]

This was great! Definitely want to see more of this series please.

[@seananderson9346]

Best router intro ever.

[@SueKerwin]

I'm fixing to try and do my cabinet door . Thanks for the information

[@josequadrado]

Jonathan, keep this... really. The amount of information in this video is staggering, all of it actionable. Timely as well (on a personal note) since I'm beginning this journey and moving into a more advanced use of the router. Specifically the bits guide is going to be *extremely* useful.

[@AndrewCollington]

Great video! It was really refreshing to watch something that just got stuck in and told you straight and to the point what you needed to know.

[@MichaelVansach]

Great video! You weren't trying to sell me something! Just an honest, no BS, expert opinion. I can learn from you, thank you. Air filtration would be nice to see. I'm trying to decide the best way (and the best way for my budget) to go. Thanks again!!!!

[@katzmosestools]

Those Wen blowers are cheap and move a lot of air. I have one. Cheers

[@schnitzel_city]

Even after having routed a bunch of material, still learned something new. Thanks! Also, audio quality has been great these last few videos. Keep it up!

[@stover08]

Thank you! This is great. Used my new palm router earlier today and this would’ve been helpful then. I please keep,these coming.

[@Rodbuilder109]

I like these videos because a person forgets or has never used one before. Keep making these for future use. I would like to see a video about using a lathe. And what features are available or better.

[@thomasnichols7788]

Excellent advice for beginners. Great job! A bit fast but they can listen to it again. I teach tool use and found the easiest directional feed training is simply a thumb and forefinger on your RIGHT hand. Put your thumb on the side you want to route and your forefinger points you in the direction of the feed. Inside, outside makes no difference.

[@ceretomer5987]

Thanks. Just got my first compact router yesterday and that was very helpful.

[@MultiTom1956]

Thanks John that's very educational 😊DIY has still not touched our Shores fully so these routers are very expensive and so are the other wood working tools ..

[@DonReba]

The depth vs diameter rule for plunge bits is helpful. I would be interested to know more about pattern bit tricks, as well.

[@davidbarnett1755]

Great video, it's about time, so many "woodworkers" do more product selling and sponsors

[@katzmosestools]

More to come!

[@CaliberK]

I need this for EVERY tool

[@Keith.Reilly]

Rarely comment and like, however I did so in this case in hopes that it helps. I will add something that you already know. You did a VERY good job.

[@mark-7]

Thank you, Content… often revisit posts to refresh memory..

[@PointManify]

Wow, was this video packed with useful information! I would love to see something about work holding for those of us who don't have a fancy workbench with an expensive vise and T-track system. I spend a lot of time trying to figure out how to secure my work (or applying band-aids when I don't).

[@RobertBlodgett-c6p]

So much useful information I had to watch it twice to capture it all!

[@bobnovak9624]

Wow! This video was awesome! To the point, specific and NO BS! Loved it!

[@WoLpH]

I love this format and I loved the age when videos were 10-20 minutes on youtube. I just don't feel like investing 30-60 minutes in a video, I've got stuff to do in my life and I can regularly spare 15 minutes.

[@SquawkingSeabird]

So stoked to see a new video!! Just bought my first router a few days ago. Needless to say, you came clutch with this one. Thanks for all you do

[@katzmosestools]

Glad I could help! They’re so great

[@walterkayser8722]

I have always liked your videos about setting up and using tools. I'd like to see something on compound miter saw.

[@AnneDougherty]

Great intro! I finally understand what a router is for and see the possibilities. Thank you for this series

[@bytaman55]

Great video. I like the "No BS" moniker. You covered all the essentials well. I'd like to see some in depth videos on EACH of the essentials you went over. For instance: I found this video because I'm looking to use my brand new palm router for the very first time to install a new interior door. So a video of what type of bit to use for routing hinge locations and latch plates, etc. would be something I would love to see.

[@raymondcollyear4773]

Thank you for your videos. I've learned so much from watching them.

[@juliewessel6269]

Great video - concise, but full of necessary info. I would second the request for dust collection in a small workshop. (There are so many options out there, and what is necessary for the type of work is being done in that shop.) Thanks!

[@contessa.adella]

Safety tip: The palm router bases like the featured DeWalt have a large cut out to view the cutting….but it is easy to accidentally curl fingers into it = minced fingers! Take some 1/8” plexi, warm it and bend around the base to cover the hole and stop finger entry! Fix it in place with epoxy or make it removable with fasteners. You can drill and tap the metal to accept a small bolt each side to keep the plastic shield in place…an easy safety fix. Thanks for the video JKM 👍

[@kimberwest7304]

Thank you! I’ve learned sooooo much from this!😅😊

[@DanielDoolen]

I like this approach very much. Thanks

[@mandimusic5109]

I'd love an episode in this series covering measuring and marking basics.

[@bradboyer1381]

Here, here to the "No B.S." series! Probably highlights the real role that YT can play regarding actual education, not just somewhat educational entertainment. Me, I'm a medium-skilled woodworker and I still learned stuff. Mostly I've used a router for roundovers or chamfers. Now I know the difference between down- and up-spiraled, combo bits, etc. The no-sponsor aspect lends credibility. My favorite line: "actionable intel"! One more example of how things spill over from the military world into strictly civilian parlance!

[@belltower338lapua]

love the video series video ideas: hand saws (western and pull saws), chisels, other hand tools

[@quadsquadracingable]

I love this!! I'm asked so often to give tips and tricks in the shop. I usually give information that I have but I more often refer them to some of you older videos from tool tune ups to basic of whatever. Thanks for this and I'm excited to see what you have in store

[@Drevid]

Fantastic series! A jointer would make a great no BS video.

[@davidgleason2519]

Thank you for this very informative video. What a terrific resource! Please keep doing these.

[@PeterFreese]

Thanks for the tip about the old-style straight bits. I have quite a few of these that I inherited from my dad, and I have experienced difficulty with them whenever I tried using them. I've purchased a couple of newer spiral up-down bits that work far better. I think it's time to permanently retire all the old straight bits.

[@willowheels]

Great video. Especially the part that demystified the bits! Would love to see one of these on wood lathes!

[@davidwhite6287]

Thank you. This was really helpful. I couldn’t figure out what I was doing wrong.

[@macgarth]

This was an excellent video. I'd love to see more of the No BS series.

[@katzmosestools]

More to come!

[@yptrumpet]

This is coming out at just the right time for me Looking forward to the rest of the series!

[@easton79]

Thank you for a great no BS video - very informative. Would love to see you do a similar video on either Router Table or Milling Lumber (flat, straight, and square)

[@RomeyT-dy8bf]

Thank Jonathan for the awesome worthwhile content. So refreshing to learn subjects in a clear and concise manner. Very much appreciated 👍.

[@DaveMillman]

Thank you for this new No BS series!!!

[@DanVenhuizen]

Thank you Jonathan! Your Videos are always very well explained.

[@jimrosson6702]

Thank you so much Jonathan such a great idea being new to woodworking this series will be so valuable in learning how to use tools the right way from a true expert like yourself have been watching your channel for a couple years as I’ve slowly collected some tools. So I vote yes that you continue this series for sure wou love to see small shop dust collection, job site table saws.bandsaw , Thank you so much for what you do

[@danielharphamgist8029]

I have 5 routers but rarely use them as I'm terrified of them. This vid has been very useful. Thank you very much. I will have much more information when I use one next.

[@katzmosestools]

That’s awesome to hear my friend!

[@darrenlarsen8089]

Such a amazing awesome guy and channel. Hi John ! from Draytonvalley Alberta Canada 🇨🇦 No bs Tremendously informative content. Finally getting confidence with wood working thanks to you brother. Cheers. Precision marking changed the game also. Peace be with you

[@Scottemz]

Loved your channel already but this makes it even better! Please keep making more No BS videos

[@69kaveman]

Great video! Yes to more NO BS videos.

[@katzmosestools]

You got it!

[@TJandGrizz]

I think a router kickback video would be helpful. I’ve used a template and quarter inch flush trim bit in my router table and I have had some kickback that has been frustrating. For example, the inside circle of a charcuterie board handle the bit can grab it and ruin your template and/or the workpiece.

[@Kaladin_S_]

Absolutely love the idea of this series, hope you can flesh out more of the workshop.

[@maddevil1964]

Loved this and I would like to see a table saw next.

[@dpmeyer4867]

great info, thanks......I always learn something

[@garybecker4490]

Great series, great info. Wish you covered the flat side of the base. 😜

[@garymiller5937]

Thanks for the tutorial Johnathan. Great info for newcomers or reminders for those more experienced. 😊😊

[@0MrENigma0]

Someone probably already said... but for the thumb down and fingers scooping you need to specify the right hand to be used to figure that out... otherwise if someone is left handed they will be inclined to use their left hand to test and will thus be backwards and be going the wrong way.