In stringed-instrument construction the router is commonly used to cut a small shoulder around the perimeter of the instrument. The dado holds an ornamental inlay (purfling) used to cover the glue seam between top and side. The chore requires a precise cut with a router guide capable of following sharp curves. Though I’ve tinkered with various adjustable guides, I keep coming back to simple, wooden, preset guides.

The guide consists of a wooden finger glued to a crescent shaped piece of plywood, which ensures proper positioning. A single bolt and wing nut provide fast but secure fastening.

For inlay work I have three guides, each made to cut a rabbet width corresponding to one, two, or three layers of veneer. Thus, for any given thickness of inlay I just bolt on the right guide. No time is lost making practice cuts.

George Mustoe, Bellingham, Wash.

Fine Woodworking Magazine, April 1980 No. 21

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