How to use a Router | Woodworking Guide for Beginners

This is an introduction to the woodworking router. I'll show you some beginner tips on how to use a wood router. I'll also cover which router you should buy, what a router table is used for, what router bits you need, how to properly use a router, and more.
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Tools in this Video
DeWALT Fixed and Plunge Base Router - amzn.to/3N9A8zr
Bosch Fixed and Plunge Base Router - amzn.to/46cxwcA
Makita 1HP Router - amzn.to/3NcMmY6
DeWALT Cordless Router - amzn.to/3CAALNG
Milwaukee Cordless Router - thetoolnut.sjv...
Milwaukee Cordless Router with Batteries - homedepot.sjv....
Ryobi Cordless Router - homedepot.sjv....
RIDGID Cordless Router - homedepot.sjv....
Skil Router and Table Combo - amzn.to/3Xew19F
Kreg Router Lift - amzn.to/3qVAkuo
How to Build a DIY Router Table - • How to Build a Router ...
Kreg Radius Jig - amzn.to/3XjQWII
Whiteside Router Bit Set - amzn.to/3CzcBCZ
45 Degree Chamfer Bit - amzn.to/42GwHpH
1/16 inch Roundover Bit - amzn.to/3JivkGG
1/8 inch Roundover Bit - amzn.to/3NxvIUe
3/8 inch Roundover Bit - amzn.to/42GwN0x
Dovetail Bit - amzn.to/3CAliNy
Flush Trim Bit - amzn.to/3qKgYsd
Router Bit Organization Tray - www.731woodwor...
Walnut Guitar Tray - www.731woodwor...
Walnut Baseball Tray - www.731woodwor...
TrueWerk Work Clothes - truewerk.pxf.i... Use code WOODWORKS10 to save 10% off your order for a LIMITED TIME ONLY.
The full list of tools and supplies I recommend can be found on my website: www.731woodwor...
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Miter Saw - amzn.to/41hbJy4
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Tripod for Phone - amzn.to/3E3kWA9
Phone Holder for Tripod - amzn.to/3E1E6GG
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Digital KZbin Sign - amzn.to/3GL2a2e
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This video is not sponsored. I purchased this router and router table with my own money. Some product links are Amazon and other affiliate links which means if you buy something we'll receive a small commission. This helps support my channel so I can continue to make content like this
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This video is not sponsored. Some product links are Amazon and other affiliate links which means if you buy something we'll receive a small commission. This helps support my channel so I can continue to make content like this.
#woodworking #woodworkingtools #woodworkingtips

[@731Woodworks]

▼EXPAND FOR TOOL LINKS and INFO▼ Watch Next = 5 Router Bits You Need - kzbin.info/www/bejne/eYe2ZGSmor2slbc 🛠 Tools In This Video DeWALT Fixed and Plunge Base Router - amzn.to/3N9A8zr Bosch Fixed and Plunge Base Router - amzn.to/46cxwcA Makita 1HP Router - amzn.to/3NcMmY6 DeWALT Cordless Router - amzn.to/3CAALNG Milwaukee Cordless Router - thetoolnut.sjv.io/5gAWQL Milwaukee Cordless Router with Batteries - homedepot.sjv.io/k04rrM Ryobi Cordless Router - homedepot.sjv.io/oeAXEo RIDGID Cordless Router - homedepot.sjv.io/x9xVKy Skil Router and Table Combo - amzn.to/3Xew19F Kreg Router Lift - amzn.to/3qVAkuo How to Build a DIY Router Table - kzbin.info/www/bejne/iJbCin1vpqpsgaM Kreg Radius Jig - amzn.to/3XjQWII Whiteside Router Bit Set - amzn.to/3CzcBCZ 45 Degree Chamfer Bit - amzn.to/42GwHpH 1/16 inch Roundover Bit - amzn.to/3JivkGG 1/8 inch Roundover Bit - amzn.to/3NxvIUe 3/8 inch Roundover Bit - amzn.to/42GwN0x Dovetail Bit - amzn.to/3CAliNy Flush Trim Bit - amzn.to/3qKgYsd Router Bit Organization Tray - www.731woodworks.com/store/router-bit-organizing-tray-walnut Walnut Guitar Tray - www.731woodworks.com/store/walnut-guitar-catch-all-tray-fender-telecaster-catch-tray Walnut Baseball Tray - www.731woodworks.com/store/walnut-guitar-catch-all-tray-fender-telecaster-catch-tray-4ber9 My Favorite Work Clothes - truewerk.pxf.io/GmbJjE Use code WOODWORKS10 to save 10% off your order for a LIMITED TIME ONLY. The full list of tools and supplies I recommend can be found on my website: www.731woodworks.com/recommended-tools Join the TUBAFOUR NATION through Patreon to get access to exclusive member only behind the scenes videos, member only livestreams, exclusive discounts, and other cool member only perks! www.patreon.com/731woodworks Check this video's description for all the links to any tools and videos I discussed. If you use one of these Amazon and other affiliate links, I may receive a commission Some other useful links: Daily Tool Deals on my website: www.731woodworks.com/tool-deals Subscribe to our email Newsletter to get new content alerts, sales, and more! mailchi.mp/7e44c16eefdc/731-woodworks-email-newsletter Easy to Follow Build Plans - www.731woodworks.com/store Outlaw's Board Butter - So Good it Should be Outlawed: www.731woodworks.com/store/boardbutter

[@Nhansomnang]

0:17 0:19 0:20

[@dianes2300]

Safety tip: if you get a palm router (I have that Ryobi one and love it!!) and it has an opening on it near the bit, position your hands so your fingers DO NOT go in that opening while you're using it!!

[@janhoogstad2188]

That's a good tip, I actually did that a week ago, and needless to say, it was not a lot of fun

[@dcgo44r]

What model, the new one?

[@wombatau]

Finger nom nom

[@Byggmester.Hansen]

Great tip, dont touch the bit while its spinning

[@KevinMcguire-ph9mg]

I leave my dust collector cover on

[@juddblaney9320]

I’m so glad I found this channel. I love when people are thorough but also straight to the point. No rambling or worthless jargon. Also- the new Ryobi 18V palm router does have variable speed.

[@731Woodworks]

Thank you!

[@quicktravelvideos]

I subscribed because I saw the scripture on your shirt and the item you made. Thank you for being bold in your faith! God bless you

[@731Woodworks]

Thanks for subbing!

[@jtcreeps919]

Gross

[@iangolightly604]

​@@731Woodworks Somebody commented on being intimidated by the router; I just bought one and have the same worries. Could you please make a video highlighting the do's and don'ts of working with routers? Thanks.

[@Phil_Goodman]

Great tips! I never realized that the speed should be turned down the bigger bit you use.

[@FixItFrench]

I have the 14 amp skil router, and it is an absolute beast. That small Makita router was ahead of its time. I think it is one of the best trim routers out there

[@barrypaxton9723]

i also have the skil, got the plunge kit its pretty good. buying a dewalt 20v though for my compact.

[@jolenebullock3554]

I'm so happy to have found you! I "inherited" a bunch of routers and equipment from my dad who passed away 17 years ago. What have I done with them? Nothing! (Haha) He made his own router table, and in that time, the table slowly gave up the ghost while sitting around the garage. I look forward to watching your channel to learn about routers and such. :)

[@rhondawelborn4462]

I am working to renovate a 100 year old building for local veteran's to come to sponsored events for free and fellowship and share stories. The place is called War Story Lodge. Your videos have helped us with routing the trim for the ceiling and now we've learned other uses and have a better idea of the tools to select. These videos often help important causes too. Thank you.

[@zlvirag]

Great and informative video. Thanks. My dad was a custom cabinet maker, and I remember helping him and using a 'palm router' to trim edges of arborite that we placed on countertops. That was almost 60 yrs. ago.

[@bobgraves5833]

Hey bud, I've been watching one of your videos today that is about 3.5 hours long. I'm 2.5 hours into this one and came to the computer to subscribe. I really like your presentation style. I have 20/20 hearing and like the cadence of your voice. A lot of information in a short amount of time is what I require. I watched another of your long videos yesterday and searched you out today. Usually when I watch tv, I'm also playing on my laptop. When I've been watching your videos, my laptop goes into sleep mode. That's about as good a complement I can give you. Thanks for the info!

[@joshyray91]

Hey man I'm really wanting to get into wood working and finding your channel has really been helpful thanks for an the good information you provide to new guys like me

[@SandyMasquith]

Thanks Matt! I have always found the router to be intimidating for some reason. This video gives me a bit more confidence to use this versatile tool.

[@TheSilmarillian]

Same here I still have a brand new one still in its box, started it up sounded like a 747 jet engine scared the willies out of me , found this channel helps demystify the beast .

[@yellowhammerwoodcrafts]

I have that Dewalt trim and a Bosch in my router table. Both have served me well for years

[@pbwc781]

3:30 that is the old P601one. The new Ryobi PCL424B does have variable speed and a dust vac port too.

[@grannydeen1586]

I have found some great routers at yard sales and flea markets. I don't have a shaper so I have several routers set up in plywood tables that I clamp to the bench when I need to make cabinet doors. Once they are adjusted they are left in the table. Cope in one, stick in another and raised panel in another (more powerful, variable speed). Through the years I've picked up several Porter Cable, Bosch, DeWalt and Makita routers at fantastic prices.

[@joebeaton1101]

Compact Routers are so versatile!!

[@tekviper9]

Finally somthing other than tool reviews

[@markbrinton6815]

I used a router for the first time last weekend. They work great! Thanks for the tips.

[@jimacker9074]

I picked up a porter cable 690 set at a garage sale for $100, and added a 691 d-handle for my dovetail jig. My 7918 is my plunge beast. The new router table has a craftsman 1/2 fixed base. I have an older ryobi 1/2 combo set. My palm is an older Dewalt that my neighbor gave me and a 1/4" craftsman rotozip kit that came with a plunge base that can angle up to 45°. And I even picked up a set of 16th" bits and base for my Dremel. Needless to say these are my favorite tools. You may want to look into the mlcs brand of bits. They offer a great deal of options.....

[@jimfeaster4837]

My favorite router table is rockler router table with incra router lift great for making Door with rockler coping sled

[@acquiredtargett6015]

And here I was thinking you'd be talking about Internet routers for woodworkers 😆Awesome and helpful video. Thanks!

[@jimfeaster4837]

My favorite Makita d handle and Makita 3 1/4 plunge router

[@ST-0311]

Pretty comprehensive list, bro. That was a lot of information coming really fast. I'd advise new users to watch it in segments. Then take the time to digest what was just covered. Might have been worth mentioning that because the router is upside down in a table the feed direction is opposite of hand held. Other than that... yeah. Good job.

[@BroRiv]

WHAT?? No Festool router? I'll get the popcorn for that review. 🙂 You are spot on- Whiteside bits are really nice- just like saw blades, clean them after each use and they'll last a lot longer and give better cuts.

[@EDVERSiTY]

That Telecaster tray is so freaking cool.

[@LYTOMIZE_Woodshop]

Super informative video for beginners and good reminders for those further down the road.

[@davidevans533]

Great tutorial ,thanks from across the pond

[@burningtree878]

FYI The Milwaukee compact router has a separate plunge base you can purchase. I have it, it’s fantastic and well built!

[@crosscutofficial]

A decent plunge router is one thing I need, maybe one day I’ll be able to get one.

[@_DB.COOPER]

Thanks. I needed this.

[@731Woodworks]

Glad I could help

[@lanetatom2701]

I ordered a Whiteside trim router bit after ordering the wrong shaft size from somewhere else. Thank you for your video.

[@RoboGoby]

May god continue to Bless you and yours kind Sir Thank you for this!

[@Mike-px8rc]

Great video. Greatly appreciate ya taking the time. Hope all is well.

[@jimfeaster4837]

I think your videos are some of the best!

[@francescocannavo2168]

Excelent video very helpful

[@prajabimehr8251]

Very informative video! thank you so much!

[@andrewbalint1628]

Thank you Matt, I am a beginner woodworker and was scared of the router, but your video makes it look very lol

[@LeonardZakoor]

I swear we just asked for one of these videos. Thanks!!! Great job as usual!

[@wikusvandeventer4877]

Thanks for this Matt. Much was learned. Could you please give us a video on safety of machines? Router kick backs for an example. Blade safety. Our hands is our work. Thank you for all the usefull videos. God bless

[@731Woodworks]

Thank you. Good suggestions. I have one on router kickback here kzbin.info/www/bejne/aIe0YYejepqhrrM

[@roybatty2030]

Excellent video, thank you, Sir.

[@mcope9012]

Thanks Matt. Can use this as a great reference video. Cheers Mike ⚒️

[@wytchywmn9]

Good basic info. Greatly appreciated!

[@scruffysanta8442]

Great overview!

[@731Woodworks]

Thanks Scruffy!

[@nore8141]

Another interesting and informative video. Thanks for sharing your experience ❤❤

[@731Woodworks]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@davidsherman6416]

Thank you.

[@lisahester1029]

Thank you so much for this video!! Very helpful and I can't wait to practice with my different bits.

[@user-yp3nf6un3e]

Thanks for the video, Matt

[@shanecherniss]

Great video. Thank you for making this. I found it very valuable as I start my journey into using a router.

[@FurrySpatula]

Thanks for all your vids. I'm looking to get into a hobby where i can flip for a couple bucks.... To pay for tools .... Hahaha Your videos are a great inspiration for those who dabble every now and then and are looking to expand the skills.

[@Sparklmonkey]

I bought a router a bit ago that came with an edge guide. Not sure why but I thought you ran the router along the guide and the guide would be fixed to the something. xD the correct way makes more sense

[@racang]

Safety tip: remove the battery when placing you hand / fingers any where near the cutting bit, pointing at the bit, changing bit. Will stop accidental starting the machine.

[@DKWalser]

I agree with everything said in this video. However, allow me to offer a few items of additional color: First, if you're going to buy a palm router, having a cordless version can be handy -- particularly if you will be using the router on a few different job sites each week. In such a case, not having a cord can be a big advantage. On the other hand, if your router use will be mostly in your shop, consider getting a corded trim router. I have an extension cord that drops down from the ceiling over my work bench. By connecting the router's cord to the extension cord, the router's power cord is never in my way. The plusses of a corded router are they are less expensive and don't consume my other tools' batteries. Second, the DeWalt 2.25hp fixed base/plunge base combo kit is a good choice. So is the Bosch. However, for a savings of about $100, you would do well to consider the similar fixed/plunge Hercules router from Harbor Freight. It is a very solid router. The Bosch and Harbor Freight both have a micro-adjust feature that the DeWalt lacks when using the fixed base. A micro-adjust is NOT essential, but it does make things easier. The Hercules router retails for $140, but its currently $110 for Inside Track Club members.

[@russmartin4189]

Great review Matt. You pretty much covered it. I started with a Ryobi hand held trim router. I was making interior shutters with panels that needed chamfering. I did hundreds of feet of chamfering. The Ryobi performed like a champ. If you only do a little edging from time to time, have no fear about buying the Ryobi. However, I graduated from that and needed a router that would do more and have more features. I bought a Makita corded trim router. I went with the kit because it came with 3 bases and accessories. I didn't want to get into another battery platform and I would only be using it in my garage. Even other places though, I don't have a problem with a cord. Besides, corded tools usually have more power and last longer. By the way, I also bought a Lowe's (Kobalt) router table with router because it was cheap and the reviews were good. Do not make the same mistake. It works, but it is inconvenient. Get a Bosch or the Craftsman.

[@morethanenoughwoodworks7654]

This is the video I have been waiting for! Lots of uses for the router and things I want to do but I am kind of confused on which router to use when and how to tell which bits do what etc. I just need to het some scrap wood and figure it out! VERY HELPFUL content, thanks.

[@Actio83]

Got a little chill, holding over a bit with a battery connected :)

[@Foxx6699]

CMT bits all the way. Haven't found a brand that makes any better in Europeland.

[@Damon_Barber]

Well done! Well organized and answered a lot of FAQ’s!

[@731Woodworks]

Thanks Damon!

[@jefff6167]

Thanks for creating this great video.

[@andymtb5714]

Yess the perfect video, looking to get a router here very soon

[@dontall71]

An easy way to remember what direction to move is the right hand rule of routing. With your hand flat, point your right thumb to the side of your work piece you're going to route, extend your index finger and that's the direction to move the router. This works for outside and inside routing.

[@Citadel1974]

hey Matt - one question I had is how do keep your work piece from moving around? Clamps seem to get in the way so I was wondering how you handle that. Also - One tip I saw somewhere for knowing the preferred direction. Lay your right hand on the edge you want to cut. Your index finger points to where you need to go. That works for the outside and inside and there's nothing to remember. (When I got that tip it was like a lightbulb went on!)

[@HW-75]

Thanks for making this video. I just got a router table and I have found it is much easier to work with.

[@upnorth1955]

Another great video! Informative and timely. Thanks

[@ronswoodshack]

Always awesome information!! Thanks Mighty Matt!

[@Paul-044]

Great info and something to consider when buying a router. Well done

[@731Woodworks]

Thanks!

[@VictorN-gr4vx]

Funny story, I got a ryobi router from home depot. And then I tightend the bit to tight. And I could not get it out so after a day of trying I gave up and took it back to home depot and they gave me a new one!😀 Thank you home depot

[@janschoice3855]

I have some woodworking tools. And actually have a router! So I love your explanation! I want to use it mostly to make fancy or simple round edges. Thank you for your explanation my friend! Your entusiasem works contagious! In the Netherlands there is not so much space to build a great woodworkshop! 🙏🏻

[@earlhulse7480]

Very helpful video

[@mjernigan1950]

Awesome info and video. Thanks!

[@731Woodworks]

THANKS! Glad it was helpful!

[@rikardekvall3433]

Great tutorial. Oil your ball bearings! Take care of your bearings, so will the bits last a long time.

[@jimrosson6702]

Great tips Matt thanks for sharing

[@jimsweeney7339]

Great video, thanks

[@MarshallLoveday]

THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU !!! I've got an old Craftsman truck of a router that I've never learned to use properly. I'll probably end up getting that DeWalt router since I have that battery platform. Looking forward to finally doing professional quality woodworking.........

[@oliviahyatt5227]

Can you show how to do the recessed area in the guitar

[@imsowright90]

I love my Dewalt router.

[@ammiruhamah976]

helped me. thanks

[@billhandymanbill2775]

Nice video. However, at 19 seconds into the video, aren’t you making a dangerous “climb cut” when making the groove in the wood. I believe the portable router should move left to right, not right to left??? Thanks, Bill

[@nazarsalih6635]

Thank you!

[@Off-Grid-Ping]

Thank You so much for this video! Not only was it a nice break from breaking down pallets, but I just got my Skil router and table combo last night! (Based on your review of it) Perfect Timing for this!

[@jon4324]

Great video. How do you start an internal cut with a palm router which has no plung function?

[@anubhavsharma9373]

Can we do this on fixed furniture, like kitchen shelves by placing it upside down?

[@zielonastolarnia]

It’s worth mentioning that HiKOKI (Metabo HPT) has 36V plunge AND trim routers as only manufacturer and boy they have plenty of power.

[@The-Handsome-Devil]

Great video as always. Just had my Skil combo delivered and can't wait to set it up.

[@731Woodworks]

Nice 👍

[@johnbaker1263]

Great info Matt, thanks for sharing your thoughts. Curious where the cord is on the Dewalt combo. Can't wait until the next video.

[@xanaharmsen4014]

hey! with the Mikita router, can also do flush cutting. I have a hole within a shape that I want to follow multiple times to get the exact same shape (so it is not on the outside but inside). Just wondering if I would need a plunge? The wood is about 5 mm thick only. Thank you!

[@calynnlock6774]

Great video!

[@731Woodworks]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@peerappel2012]

Thanks for this helpful video! Is it possible to make a hole with very precise depth using a fixed base router?

[@mikeingeorgia1]

That would be very tricky. It sounds like a job much better suited to a drill press or a plunge router

[@rapzfan]

Hey Matt, what are your thoughts on a corded vs. cordless router? (Specifically, thinking Dewalt since I have other Dewalt tools that already use the same battery for cordless)

[@lucygoose23]

If you wanted to put a juice Grove in a cutting board, would you use a plunge router or would a fixed based router be able to cut down then sideways?

[@stephenmcgeown]

Is it safe to use a router on an unsecured piece as shown at 3.54?

[@davidcorliss]

Nice video Matt

[@731Woodworks]

Thanks!

[@woodnotestudio]

I agree with you. That Dewalt router is a great one to have. I also have a Bosch in my table. Great video.

[@timhall1364]

My router has an arrow on the plastic guide to show me which way to go. It was hard to see so I added black paint to highlight the groove of the arrow.

[@billyblackie9417]

🎉This video is very important to me because I have bought an electric router with two plastic flat bases. I don't know which base does what so I have a small fear of using it. My old router I only used for a channel in length of wood to invert plastic perspex for swing gate and dogs to see through. I have never done anything else but would love to learn to do basic things and further down the line I can advance to other things as I get used to using it and understand what bits to use and what they do. I would love to make the board with the cross channels you made using clamps in the channels to hold things in

[@Pinky121971]

Im new to router however I would like to know what bit to use for making' hinge' for a door?

[@valerievecchio8696]

Need a router to cut a 3/8” wide rabbet cut in the factory floor of my van. It’s needed to install floor fillers in a D-ring and Seat Rail. Any recommendations as to what kind of router and bit I should buy for this job? I’m sure I’ll be using it for other applications in the van such as drawers etc. TIA. Will certainly practice on scraps before attempting the rabbet.

[@oakspines7171]

Can I use router to cut a 5 inches hole in plywood ? How ? Thanks.

[@marklaforest8804]

Being a beginner I appreciate videos like this. It would be interesting to see the Hercules router compared to the DeWalt. Hercules is 12amp fixed base plunge base 2-1/2 plate edge guide 10k-25k rpm range slow start led light dust collector for both bases base plates have holes for bench mounting and the height adjust has provision for allen key to adjust from up top on sale now for 109.99. Am I wrong to not consider that one?

[@TomsBackyardWorkshop]

I've got 2 of those Makita routers. I bought one to use for a cnc and then bought a second because I liked it.

[@eddyparker10]

Can you review the new Hercules 20v router? I am in the process of buying a cordless router but dont know which one to get. Debating between Flex and Hercules