Mini Router Table

Small pieces often require precise routing that just isn't safe on a full-size router table. And, trying to shape the workpiece in one hand with a rotary tool held in the other isn't any better.

To make your custom holder, start by cutting clamp blocks to fit the body of your rotary tool. Line the inside curved surface of the blocks with weatherstripping or some type of foam. The foam allows you to secure the rotary tool between the blocks without cracking the tool housing when tightening the blocks around the tool. Now, cut the table, end supports, and back to the sizes shown on the drawing below right. Assemble the table. Secure your rotary tool in place, being careful not to overtigthen the knobs. Mark the hole location needed for your largest rotary bit, remove the table, and drill the hole. Screw the table back in place.

Clamp the mini table to your workbench as shown in the photo, or slide one of the protruding ends of the back into a flush-mounted bench vise.

For really small pieces, we prefer to hold the workpiece with a miniature clamp, or even secure the workpiece to the end of another piece of wood with double-faced tape or hot-melt glue. This keeps our fingers safely away from the spinning bit.