Scratch Dreaming

[Simon Barden]

It works just fine.

[dozymuppet]

Some router action from last weekend.





More to go, but my first try at plunge routing gave me plenty of learning. Glad I was being very conservative with my line, because it bit a couple of times. I want to take another pass at the top with the router, then tidy it up with a file/rasp before routing the the bottom. I need to head to Timbecon on the weekend to buy a couple of new router bits, specifically pattern-following flush bits. Probably 1/2" and 1" depths. I've also ordered pickup and neck pocket routing templates from Stewmac, because that will be repeatable (as opposed to the body shape).

I need to sell some other shit to justify these current outlays I'm having to make...

[Trevor Davies]

Freehand routing is difficult. I still make a MDF template even if it is a one off, then use it with a pattern following bit to shape the real wood. I might see you at Timbecon!

[dozymuppet]

You're probably very right. As I'm looking at the next two shapes I'm considering, it's probably a false economy to think not making a template will save me much time.

[dozymuppet]

Yep, a template and pattern following bits certainly makes it a more enjoyable experience.



Had to compensate for a couple of freehand errors, so it will probably be about 8mm shorter than originally planned. But happy with that. So far.

Sent from my Pixel 4 using Tapatalk

[Trevor Davies]

Looks good. Great that using the router was "more enjoyable".

[DarkMark]

The before and after photos speak for themselves. Looking good.

[dozymuppet]

Progress (and lots of new bits and pieces bought to get to this point).









Not really happy with the forstner bit I got, as it's got about a 5mm pilot, which could get you into trouble.

A few bits to tidy up, including the extra hb ears, but overall I'm happy with where it's at. Until I realise I still have to deal with power and control cavities.

Sent from my Pixel 4 using Tapatalk

[Trevor Davies]

Looking good. How were the routing templates?

[dozymuppet]

When I realised I could use double-sided tape to keep them in place instead of clamping, they were great!

The neck one was interestingly very tight on the sheoak for a PB neck heel, but almost loose with the paulownia on the St Vincent.

I also accidentally took a chunk out of the neck template acrylic, because I didn't let the router stop spinning before lifting it out. Fortunately, it's at the top of the template, so no harm done, other than cosmetic.