Uploaded October 2024 | Updated September 2026, 3 minutes ago
Building complex jigs isn't always necessary. For instance, while a circle cutting jig is handy for your bandsaw, there are rare times where you’ll need a larger one. But you can easily create an inexpensive router jig using a strip of hardboard, a machine screw, a washer, and two nuts.
Start by removing the router's base plate and using it as a template to mark and drill holes at the end of the hardboard strip, which should be slightly longer than the circle's radius you need. Replace the router's bit with a V-groove bit. After drilling, sandwich the hardboard between the router and the base plate, then route a small hole through it.
Next, mark the radius on the hardboard and drill a hole there. Take a small offcut of hardboard, drill another hole, and countersink it for the machine screw. Attach the screw, apply double-sided tape to the back, and press it hard onto the center of your stock material.
Position the hardboard, place a washer over the bolt, and thread a nut onto it, ensuring it's secure but can still rotate. Cut off the extra hardboard and lock it with a second nut.
When cutting, make several shallow passes to maintain precision and keep the hardboard pulled tight.
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*MAKER TEAM*
Michelle B
Keith Current
William L McNally
Rich Lightfoot
Tutor the Barbarian
Mike Lornitis
Les N.
Gary G.
Aubrey G.
Nukebert
Sam W.
Aaron Knows DIY
Doug F.
#MTbitesize
Building complex jigs isn't always necessary. For instance, while a circle cutting jig is handy for your bandsaw, there are rare times where you’ll need a larger one. But you can easily create an inexpensive router jig using a strip of hardboard, a machine screw, a washer, and two nuts.
Start by removing the router's base plate and using it as a template to mark and drill holes at the end of the hardboard strip, which should be slightly longer than the circle's radius you need. Replace the router's bit with a V-groove bit. After drilling, sandwich the hardboard between the router and the base plate, then route a small hole through it.
Next, mark the radius on the hardboard and drill a hole there. Take a small offcut of hardboard, drill another hole, and countersink it for the machine screw. Attach the screw, apply double-sided tape to the back, and press it hard onto the center of your stock material.
Position the hardboard, place a washer over the bolt, and thread a nut onto it, ensuring it's secure but can still rotate. Cut off the extra hardboard and lock it with a second nut.
When cutting, make several shallow passes to maintain precision and keep the hardboard pulled tight.
Check out my other channel! → @makethingswithrob
Become a patron! → 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
Mike Lornitis
Les N.
Gary G.
Aubrey G.
Nukebert
Sam W.
Aaron Knows DIY
Doug F.
#MTbitesize
