Are you tired of limited workspace and restrictions while using your Dewalt router?
Do you want to take your woodworking skills to the next level and have a dedicated setup for your router?
But how can you do that when Dewalt does not make a router table for their routers?
Look no further!
Building your own Dewalt router table is the answer to all your problems. And you know the best part? It’s easier than you think.
Of course, you can buy the Best Router Table for Dewalt Router from a third party. That will work too.
We will guide you on making a custom router table for your Dewalt router step by step. From selecting the right materials to mounting the router, we’ll cover everything you need to know. Not only will this increase the versatility of your router, but it will also provide a more efficient and safe working environment.
Materials Needed
Here is a list of materials you will need to make the router table:
- MDF or Plywood (24” x 32”)
- Aluminum T-track (2 pieces)
- Table legs (4 pieces)
- Screws and nuts
- Dowel rods
- Wood glue
All the materials needed to make a router table can be purchased at a hardware store. The cost of these materials can vary based on where you purchase them, but on average, you can expect to pay around $100 to $150.
Tools Needed
Here is a list of tools you will need to make the router table:
- Table saw
- Drill and drill bits
- Screwdrivers
- Measuring tape
- Square
- Router
- Jigsaw
These tools can be rented from a hardware store if you do not own them. On average, renting the tools for a week can be around $50 to $100.
Having the Best Router for Dovetail Jig will also help if you want to create any dovetail joints.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Router Table:
Here is a video guide,
Cutting the Table Top:
- Let’s Get Sizing: Cut that MDF or Plywood down to 24″ x 32″
- Measuring is Key: Determine the Perfect Size for Your Router Table Top
- Mark it Up: Jot Down Your Measurements on the Board with a Pencil
- Ready, Set, Cut: Grab Your Circular Saw or Table Saw and Make a Clean Cut with a Straight Edge as Your Guide
- Smooth Sailing: Sand Down the Edges to Remove any Rough Spots or Burrs and Achieve a Smooth Finish on Your Table Top.
Note: You can choose any shape for your tabletop, whether it’s circular, rectangular or any other shape. The above steps will apply to any shape you choose.
Adding the T-Track
- Take your ruler and measure the desired length of the T-track; we’re going for 24″ x 1″.
- Get your marking tool ready and mark the future location of the T-track on the tabletop.
- Fire up your drill and make pilot holes at equal intervals along the marked T-track location. Ensure the holes are slightly smaller than the screws used to secure the T-track.
- Add a dollop of wood glue to the bottom of the T-track, and align it with the pilot holes.
- Drive in screws through the pilot holes and into the T-track, securing it in place. Make sure the screws are evenly spaced.
- Repeat this process for additional T-tracks, if desired.
- Give the glue plenty of time to dry, and don’t be surprised if it takes anywhere from several hours to overnight.
- Pat yourself on the back for a job well done, you’ve just added a sleek T-track to your router table!
Adding the Legs:
- Cut the table legs to size (32”).
- Secure the legs to the table top using screws and nuts.
- Repeat this process for the remaining legs.
Adding the Dowel Rods:
- Cut the dowel rods to size (24”).
- Cut four pieces of wood to act as legs for your router table. The length of the legs will depend on the height you want for your table.
- Using wood glue and clamps, attach the legs to the corners of the table top. Make sure the legs are perpendicular to the table top and securely attached.
- Allow the glue to dry completely, according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Once the glue is dry, reinforce the attachment by driving wood screws through the legs and into the table top.
Sanding and Finishing:
- Sand the entire router table to remove any rough spots.
- Apply a finish of your choice to the table top and legs.
Mounting the Dewalt Router:
For video guide
Choosing the Right Plate:
- Choose the right mounting plate for your Dewalt router.
- Make sure the plate fits the size of your router table.
Installing the Plate:
- Mark the center of the table top.
- Place the router table insert into the center of the table top and trace around it with a pencil.
- Cut out the traced area using a circular saw or jigsaw.
- Sand the cutout to ensure a smooth finish.
- Place the router table insert into the cutout, ensuring it’s level with the tabletop. Secure the insert in place with screws.
Mounting the Router:
- Place the Dewalt router upside down on the tabletop.
- Trace around the base of the router.
- Remove the material inside the traced area using the router and a straight bit. This will create a recess for the router base to fit into.
- Place the router into the recess and secure it in place with screws.
Finishing the table:
- Fill any gaps or holes with wood filler and let it dry completely.
- Sand the table to remove rough spots and ensure a smooth finish.
- Apply a coat of wood finish, such as polyurethane, to protect the wood and give it a beautiful shine.
Test the table:
- Test the router table to ensure it’s level and secure.
- Test the router to ensure it’s properly mounted and functioning correctly.
- Make any necessary adjustments to ensure the table is ready to use.
What if you have fixed base router?
Check this video if you have a fixed based Dewalt router to build your table.
Adding Accessories:
Router Fence:
- Purchase a router fence that fits the size of your router table.
- Secure the fence to the table top using screws.
- Make sure the fence is level and secure.
Dust Collection System:
- Purchase a dust collection system that fits the size of your router table.
- Connect the dust collection system to the router.
- Make sure the system is working properly and that all dust is being collected.
Table Inserts:
- Purchase table inserts that fit the size of your router table.
- Insert the table inserts into the table top.
- Make sure the inserts are secure and level.
Conclusion
Making a router table for your Dewalt router is a great way to increase the versatility of your router and improve your woodworking skills.
Following the steps outlined in this blog post, you can easily make your router table in just a few hours. The cost of materials and tools can be around $150 to $250, but the investment is well worth it for the improved functionality and increased efficiency you will receive.
Trust in the process and take your woodworking skills to the next level with your very own router table.
