100 Awl Challenge: Act 3 // The "Checker Madness" Awl @makethingswithrob

Uploaded January 2022 | Updated September 2026, 5 days ago

The awl is one of my most cherished tools in my shop. In the next several weeks I will be uploading 10 copies of 10 different awl makes. Because no one needs 100 awls, I plan on giving them all away. If you'd like to win one as well as getting your picture in a video, take part in my challenge!

makethingswithrob.com/stubby_awl

Thank you to this week's winners! You'll be receiving a custom awl, a Make Things sticker and another surprise!

Filipe Jimenez
Michael Brimley
Anne L.

Check out Act 1's winners! → youtu.be/qgAnTIU4XOM
Check out Act 2's winners! → youtu.be/8PsnLnRfRJY

100 Awl Challenge: Act 3 // The Checker Madness Awl

$A Router Anchor That Ends the Balancing Act // Router Base Onion Build II Routers are powerful tools, but when used along the edge of stock, balancing becomes a challenge. Since most of the routers weight hangs off the edge, theres a constant risk of tipping, shifting, or uneven cuts. Enter the Router Anchor. This idea gives you more stability, control, and leverage while routing. Designed to stabilize your router on edge work, this shifts the center of gravity onto the stock, preventing bumps and ensuring smooth, controlled passes. If youre using a trim router, instead of spending $25 or more on a store-bought baseplate, well make a custom built pad that cost a fraction of the price while having the ability to fit any trim router setup. Whether youre using a full-sized router or a lightweight trim router, these fixtures will eliminate the balancing act and give you more control with your cuts. Playlist of all bitesize tips used → https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEBXNh1Ik9Fl5jsj4RYaeX3M4FyNqlMpD Attaching plexiglass to the base → https://youtu.be/MS7Q9RcaNmw?t=492 Step by step instructions/tools/materials → https://makethingswithrob.com/router-anchor/ Become a patron! → https://www.patreon.com/makethings ← Huge thank you to my patrons that keep this thing going! *MAKER TEAM* Michelle B Keith Current William L McNally Rich Lightfoot Tutor the Barbarian Aubrey G. Nukebert Sam W. Aaron Knows DIY G. Salazar David B. Make Things, Lets Make Things 00:00 Intro 00:22 1. ROUTER ANCHOR 00:25 1.1. Materials 00:49 1.2. Mapping out lines 02:14 1.3. Recessing the plywood 03:13 1.4. Shaping the base 04:03 1.5. Base to baseplate 05:53 1.6. Dowel handle 06:14 1.7. Testing it out 06:52 1.8. Final thoughts 07:16 2. TRIM STYLE ROUTER PLATE 07:27 2.1. Differences and materials 08:54 2.2. Mapping the shape 09:59 2.3. Cutting and shaping 10:32 2.4. Final markings, drillings 13:17 2.5. Assembly & example 14:13 CREDITS #LetsMakeThings$

100 Awl Challenge: Act 2 // The Reach Out and Touch Someone Awl

Make a miter arm for your table saw! / Step by step directions

Glue Frankenstein Milk Jug (Instructional)

10 Step Router Rails 2.0 Build // Simplified!