Woodworking Tips & Tools

Use Your Router Table as a Jointer

With just a strip of plastic laminate, you can convert a router table into an edge jointer. My experience has been that the "router-jointer" puts a very good straight edge on a workpiece. This simple conversion will save the user a substantial amount of money by eliminating the need for a jointer.

A router table can be converted into an edge jointer by attaching the laminate to the outfeed side of the router fence with carpet tape. The idea is to align one end of the laminate with the opening in the fence, see detail. I also file a bevel on this end to reduce the chance of a workpiece catching on the laminate.

This is nothing more than a squared-up scrap block that rides against the fence as you push the workpiece past the bit. To prevent chipout, just be sure the block is at least as thick as the workpiece.

Straight Bit

All it takes to joint an edge is an ordinary straight bit. Note: One limitation with this setup is that the thickness of the workpiece can't exceed the length of the cutting edge on the bit. Straight bits are available in lenths of  up to 2 1/2 inches. 1/2 inch shanks work best because they reduce the vibration and chatter that sometimes occurs while routing.

Align Fence

After mounting the bit in the router, the next step is to align the fence. The goal is to position the fence so the surface of the laminate is flush with the outermost cutting edge of the bit, see detail. This will produce a cut that equals the thickness of the laminate.

Joint Edge

After locking the fence, you can turn the router on and joint the edge of the workpiece. To do this, hold the workpiece firmly against the fence as you slide it past the bit, making as many passes as needed to produce a straight edge.