router flush trim bit guestion

[LDK]

I have a 1/4 inch masonite pattern for my side profile, what would be the right flush trim bit to use to cut the sides out with. should the pattern be on top or bottom?
I have a router but I don't have alot of experience with it.

[madjack]

...pattern on top...clampit down and use a bottom bearing flush trim bit................................

p.s. if not very familiar with routers, a bit of practice can save much HEADACHE(and cash) later....mj

[Doug B]

uh, Jack, if the pattern is on the top I think you're going to want the bearing on top as well.

[madjack]

...hold bit by shaft pointing into air...think about it ??????.........................

[madjack]

...this is a bottom bearing bit...also know as a pattern following bit.............................................

[planovet]

I used this bit and had the pattern on the bottom. Either way would work.

[madjack]

...yep Mark, whatever works...the important part is to be confident in your ability with the router...if not, more practice should be done, since a router can do more harm faster, than a sudden sneeze or eye blink..................
madjack

[rbeemer]

LDK

Since you do not have a lot of experience with the router. Putting the pattern on top will be easier for you but before you use the route I would trace your pattern on the wood panel then cut it with a jigsaw about a quarter inch away from the line that way when you use the router the amount of wood that you will be taking off will be less and easier to guide the router. DO NOT go in the direction that the bit is turning until you have more experience.

This is just my 2 cents because I do not know your ability and want you to be successful first time out.

[tonyj]

I would bandsaw or jigsaw cut the piece even closer to the line, maybe an 1/8 or 1/16 inch. The less the router bit has to take off, the less of a chance for a little oops.

Once you get the technique down, you'll find lots of uses for shaping pieces using a pattern, or using a pattern cutting bit for trimming up a piece.

[madjack]

I would bandsaw or jigsaw cut the piece even closer to the line, maybe an 1/8 or 1/16 inch. The less the router bit has to take off, the less of a chance for a little oops.

Once you get the technique down, you'll find lots of uses for shaping pieces using a pattern, or using a pattern cutting bit for trimming up a piece.

...actually, this is what I do as well, using a jig saw to cut as close as possible before using the pattern/router.....
madjack

[aggie79]

You probably already know these, but, if not, here are a couple of router tips I learned during my build:

1. Spend the money to get carbide tipped bits rather than steel bits.

2. The direction of the cut or the way you move your router is important. A router spins the bits clockwise. You want move the router so that the cut helps "pull" the router to the part being cut. If you're cutting on the outside of the template, then you move your router from left to right.

[planovet]

I have a router but I don't have alot of experience with it.

This thread has a lot of good advice for you. Follow it and you should be fine.

planovet: Top or bottom bearing bit, either one will work

madjack: The important part is to be confident in your ability with the router...if not, more practice should be done, since a router can do more harm faster, than a sudden sneeze or eye blink

tonyj: I would bandsaw or jigsaw cut the piece even closer to the line, maybe an 1/8 or 1/16 inch. The less the router bit has to take off, the less of a chance for a little oops.

aggie79: 1. Spend the money to get carbide tipped bits rather than steel bits. 2. The direction of the cut or the way you move your router is important. A router spins the bits clockwise. You want move the router so that the cut helps "pull" the router to the part being cut. If you're cutting on the outside of the template, then you move your router from left to right.

[LDK]

I just want to thank you all for the good advise. It's amazing how much you can learn if you ask questions.