10 Clever Bosch Flush Trim Router Bit Hacks for Perfect Woodworking Projects

Woodworking crafts, woodworking iNthacity Network January 23, 2025 0 Comments

Are you tired of struggling with dados and grooves in your woodworking projects? Dont be. James Hamilton, better known as Stumpy Nubs, has got you covered. In this guide, we’ll dive into his ultimate tips to master these essential woodworking techniques without breaking a sweat.

Why Dados and Grooves Are the Backbone of Your Projects

First things first. Dados and grooves are critical in creating sturdy and functional woodworking projects, particularly for cabinets and shelves. These little trenches in wood give your projects both structural integrity and aesthetic appeal. But, mastering them? That’s where many woodworkers hit a wall.

Why? Well, most struggle either because they dont have a dado set for their table saw, or they’ve got one, but let’s just say, the cuts turn into a mess. Uneven bottoms are not the goal here, my friends. But fear not, Stumpy Nubs has some brilliant solutions that are not only simple but downright genius. (And yes, I’m a faithful follower of his wisdom!)

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Clever things you can do with a flush trim router bit

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For the Dado Set-Less Woodworker

So, you don’t have a dado set? Relax. All you need is a router—and no, you don’t have to wrestle with complex offsets and edge guides. Stumpy Nubs shows how to use a simple scrap of wood to guide your router along the desired line. No math, no complicated calculations, just straight-up simplicity.

Trim Router: You can use a trim router for this job. It’s compact, efficient, and perfect for precise work.
Router Bit: The right router bit is crucial. Opt for one with a bearing that can glide along your scrap wood. This ensures a perfectly flat-bottom dado in a single pass. And no, it won’t break the bank.

Here’s the kicker: this method is not only affordable but also safer than wrestling with a table saw dado set. (And trust me, as someone who’s been doing woodworking for decades, anything safer is a win!)

When You Have a Dado Set but It’s Just... Meh

Okay, so you’ve got a dado set, but it’s leaving your projects looking more like a war zone than a sleek piece of furniture. Ever been there? Stumpy Nubs has a brilliant workaround: using a router bit to clean up the mess your dado set left behind.

How?

Well, the dado itself becomes the straight edge. The router bit tidies up the bottom, leaving you with a clean, smooth finish. Talk about turning lemons into lemonade! This method uses what’s called a dado cleanout bit, and it’s a lifesaver for any woodworker stuck with a less-than-perfect dado set.

Wider dados? No Problem!

Suppose your dado needs to be wider than the router bit you’re using. Here’s where Stumpy Nubs’ ingenuity shines again. Use the workpiece that will fit into the dado to set the spacing between two straight edges. Then, cut the dado in two passes. It’s a simple technique that will save you so much grief—and maybe even a few gray hairs!

Improvise, Adapt, Overcome

Not only does this approach work wonders for dados, but Stumpy Nubs also shows how it can be used to create clever jigs, perfect for hinge mortising or even creating custom shapes and holes. Using a router bit with a bearing is like having a magic wand for woodworking. It simplifies processes that were once complex and time-consuming.

Why does this matter?

Because when you free up time from fiddling with complicated setups, you can focus on what truly matters: unleashing your creativity and bringing your woodworking visions to life.

The Magic of Carbide-Tipped Router Bits

The secret to clean, tear-free cuts lies in the router bit itself. Stumpy Nubs swears by bits with three carbide cutters, angled to create a downward shearing cut. This means no more fuzzy edges or tear-outs, even on delicate plywood veneers—every woodworker’s nightmare!

If that’s not enough, these bits come with Astra coating, which extends their lifespan and adds a fancy rainbow hue. Talk about pretty and practical! Buy high-quality router bits, and you’ll thank yourself later. You can snag these at BitsBits.com, a treasure trove for woodworkers.

Why You Should Never Underestimate Free-Standing Templates

Free-standing templates are another gem shared by Stumpy Nubs. Forget the hassle of bushings and offsets. Simply create a template for your perfect cut, and let the router bearing glide smoothly along it for flawless results. This method is particularly useful for repetitive cuts where precision is paramount.

Pro tip: With longer bits, make a thicker template or guide for shallow cuts. It’s all about adaptability in this craft—and that’s what separates the pros from the rookies.

The Verdict: Stumpy Nubs Knows His Stuff

James Hamilton, aka Stumpy Nubs, has earned his stripes as a woodworking guru. The techniques he shares in his video saves you time, money, and headache, which are three things every woodworker could use more of. Whether you’re a beginner trying to figure out dados or a pro looking to refine your craft—this guide is a keeper.

But Wait, There’s More...

If you found this guide useful, scroll back and watch the video again. Most of us are visual learners, and seeing these techniques in action is priceless. And why not subscribe to his channel while you’re at it? Stumpy Nubs is a wealth of knowledge, and his tips have benefited countless woodworkers, including yours truly.

Thought-Provoking Questions

Here’s a little food for thought:

Which woodworking technique do you struggle with the most?
Have these tips made dados and grooves easier for you?
What’s your favorite tool in your workshop?

Join the discussion in the comments below! And if you’re ready to take your woodworking to the next level, don’t forget to check out Teds Woodworking Plans for laser-precise project blueprints. Remember, every masterpiece starts with a plan.

Finally, join the thriving woodworking community at iNthacity.com. Become a permanent resident, then a citizen of the "Shining City on the Web." Together, we’re discovering, sharing, and perfecting the art of woodworking. Let’s build something amazing.

Wait! There's more...check out our gripping short story that continues the journey: The Hooded Figure of Marcus Hale

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