Tray Routing Tips: How to Get Great Results with Minimal Sanding

Template routing can be intimidating, but with the right technique and tools, it's a great way to safely and efficiently create perfect shapes and patterns in your woodworking projects. This video goes step-by-step through the process, covering everything from choosing the right router bit to setting up your jig and making your first cut. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced woodworker looking to refresh on the basics, this video is for you. If you're interested in building or buying the jig shown in this video, the plans and a limited supply of completed jigs are available on Etsy: https://thesnekkershow.etsy.com These two videos are also helpful for the project: How to build the trays: https://youtu.be/nkuZbJNl0K0 How to build the jig: https://youtu.be/d0HGunoGpio Find products I like on my Amazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/thesnekkershow You can find pictures of my work on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesnekkershow These are some of the tools and supplies I use when making these trays: Whiteside bowl and tray bit: https://amzn.to/38LAetO Whiteside ultimate pattern bit: https://amzn.to/3oNdFKZ Whiteside 1/8” roundover bit: https://amzn.to/3ikLBMD Whiteside 1/4" roundover bit: https://amzn.to/39Eny7E Waterlox Original Sealer/Finish Gallon: https://amzn.to/3E2fBZA Waterlox Original Sealer/Finish Quart: https://amzn.to/3HWsVjv DeWalt DW618 2 1/4 HP Router: https://amzn.to/39HZYqz Dust Hose Adapters: https://amzn.to/3XGerdD Dust Hose with Adapters: https://amzn.to/3Kkriz9 Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 1:56 Work area overview 3:28 Choose the right router bit 3:56 Keep your router bit clean 4:33 Use dust collection 4:40 Set your depth stops 7:10 Make sure the plunge lock us secure 8:26 Select the proper bit speed 10:58 Keep the router moving 13:20 Cut in the right direction 16:00 Make sure you got it all 17:50 Tray-routing demonstration 24:11 See the final result This video is not sponsored. I paid for everything and used my own time. As an Amazon Associate, I may earn a small commission if you use the Amazon links to make a purchase.