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What router bit to use for flattening slabs?
It is a 2-1/2″ bit. The real trick to using a router to flatten, is to make a raised sled the router rides on and the sled is on a set of straight edge boards. Then, when you route the top to plane it is comes out pretty close to perfectly flat. Then sand to finish.
Can you plane with a router?
If you have a beautiful, thick piece of timber that is too wide to use your Planer, you can get the face of the wood parallel and smooth using a router and a jig. A router is a simple and accurate way to plane wood while saving time and energy.
Can you make a router flattening sled for free?
If you don’t have the money or space for a large planer, a router flattening sled is a great option for you to be able to plane large slabs without having to spend too much money to make this. I provide tips on how to build it and obtain a smooth finish, along with a link to the free plans!
What’s the best way to flatten a router?
The router should now slide freely within the sled. You can now plane the slabs. A couple tips to get a smooth finish: Go with the grain. This will make a huge difference! Clean your work area often. And debris that the casters roll over will cause the finish to not be as smooth. shim your slab so that it is stable.
How to cut the bottom of a router sled?
To cut the bottom of the sled, use your router’s base to set the width of the cut. Add 1/32″ to this measurement to allow just enough room to prevent binding when the router moves across the sled. Next, cut out the sled sides.
What’s the best way to flatten a wood slab?
The work piece will have tracks from the router bit when you are done flattening it. These are easily removed with either a belt sander or a random orbit sander. If you want both faces of the slab parallel to each other, flip the slab over and repeat this process on the other face. You won’t have to shim it, since this side is already flat.