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Router-Bit Storage
It's as easy as 1-2-3
It's as easy as 1-2-3
Most router-bit storage systems force you
to guess how many bits you'll add to your
arsenal in the coming years. Dave
Campbell, WOOD. magazine's Products
Editor, neatly sidestepped that dilemma by
designing this modular storage system
that fits in any drawer and easily grows to
meet your expanding bit collection. A 1-2-
3 progression of block sizes maximizes the
number of possible arrangements. Dave
set aside one large square, and drilled it to hold rotary-tool bits.
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To build your
modular
storage, rip
3/4" MDF
(medium-
density
fiberboard)
into 1-1/4"-,
2-1/2"-, and
3-3/4"-wide
strips; then
crosscut
them into
squares. Drill
centered,
slightly
oversized
holes for
easy bit
removal;
17/64" and
13mm holes
for 1/4"- and
1/2"-shank
router bits,
and 7/64" and 9/64" holes for 3/32"- and 1/8"-shank high-speed rotary tool
bits.
Note: Finding a 33/64" bit to drill the oversized holes for 1/2" shanks is
nearly impossible. Commonly used to install metric hardware, a 13mm bit is
a readily-available substitute.
Slightly countersink the holes' edges. Chamfer the blocks' top edges on your
table-mounted router. Hold the parts with a padded jointer pushblock to
keep your fingers safely away from the router bit.
Pour some Danish oil-type finish into a small container, and dip the blocks.
After wiping off the excess finish with a rag, dry the blocks on a window
screen propped on sawhorses.
With the finish dry, arrange the blocks in your drawer. Fill in the extra space
in the drawer with snug-fitting pieces of 1/4" hardboard. You can use these
tray-like spaces for storing accessories.
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Router-Bit Storage Page 2 of 2
To add versatility to this system,
simply bore holes into the module(s)
of your choice and glue in craft
magnets. They hold small steel parts
just great. Our thanks to Jeff Hilton of
Mission Viejo, California, for sending
in this tip.
If you like this project, please check out our 330+ paper and downloadable
woodworking project plans at the WOOD Store.
" WOOD Store >>
© Copyright2004 Meredith Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
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