Introduction: Custom Router Base Plate
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About: I have a creative nature, whether through my work as a software developer or at home, working on one of my "projects". With three kids and a house under renovation, there's always something going on around her…
A few years ago, I bought a cheap router and whilst being an "economy" brand, its actually served very well.
The one real downside that I found is that you can only use standard bits, with the supplied base plate and a subsequent "fits all" collar system, just doesn't fit.....
Some patience on the laser cutter ... problem solved and now have a far more versatile tool.
The one real downside that I found is that you can only use standard bits, with the supplied base plate and a subsequent "fits all" collar system, just doesn't fit.....
Some patience on the laser cutter ... problem solved and now have a far more versatile tool.
Step 1: Making a Template
The first step was to sketch up a template for my base plate, taking measurements from the supplied plate and putting them into the etching software.
When I was almost sure that everything was accurate, I ran the etch onto a sheet of paper, which proved a valuable decision as my first attempt wasn't as accurate as I thought.
A few iterations later and I had a paper cut that I was happy with.
I ran some similar tests to measure and align two holes for the stepped collar adapter.
When I was almost sure that everything was accurate, I ran the etch onto a sheet of paper, which proved a valuable decision as my first attempt wasn't as accurate as I thought.
A few iterations later and I had a paper cut that I was happy with.
I ran some similar tests to measure and align two holes for the stepped collar adapter.
Step 2: Materials
From previous projects, I had some leftover sheets of plexiglas and perspex ... selected the closest pieces for the steps of the collar (thinking that I could easily add a card spacer to remove any free play)
Step 3: Laser Cut and Fit
With the sheet material cut, I countersunk for the screw heads (and had to pick up slightly longer screws from the local hardware store) and fitted the new plate.
Two of the screw holes needed a little work with a fine file, but all in all, this was a quick and easy project which has extended the usage of my router.
Two of the screw holes needed a little work with a fine file, but all in all, this was a quick and easy project which has extended the usage of my router.