Guide to Pattern Routing
Learn How to Make Perfect Curved or Square Shapes Using a Router
Pattern routing skills can substantially improve your woodworking in both creative and technical areas while improving the quality of your work. In this article you’ll learn how to choose router bits, make templates for both curved and square cornered shapes; and then how to make the cuts. You’ll be pleasantly surprised how easy pattern routing is once you understand the fundamentals.
The major advantage of pattern routing instead of a jig saw or bandsaw, for example, is that the routed cut leaves a smooth, clean surface while the jig saw results in a rough one. Also, the pattern routed cut is very precise and repeatable because of the use of a pattern. The jig saw cut is not repeatable and not precise even in the hands of a skilled user.