Replies

1. 
   user-148830 | Feb 07, 2007 02:19am | #1

   John,
   My method uses a slotting bit and the frame unglued but assembled tightly. It must be tightly held together either by clamps or by its own joinery so that you can rout the groove for the panel right into it. A slotting bit is bearing mounted so it will follow a curve or straight line, but you’ll have to raise up your frame on your bench with some blocks underneath so that the bearing doesn't run into your bench.

   If the frame is wide enough to support your router base then rout your groove to depth. You’ll have to clean up the round corners with a chisel. If, however, your frame is too narrow, use an auxiliary base on your router. I prefer plexiglass. Screw on a block of wood to that base
   as long as you need so that your router can’t tip in the middle of the cut. Just a safeguard for a slip of the hand or a lack of concentration. Good luck. Gary

1. 
   Mulli2007 | Feb 07, 2007 05:53am | #2

   Gary,
   Thanks for your advice. Since the top and bottom rails are 1.5" thick and the posts are 3" thick, I should be able to use the router table to cut the grooves (I did not make clear that when I said unassembled, I meant top, bottom and sides, not the rails/posts themselves).Do you have any recommendations for adjustable slotting bit set?Also, since these are beadboard panels, can I put small amount of glue to hold them in place, or maybe use those little rubber panel balls?Thanks for your help!
   Regards,
   John

1. 
   user-148830 | Feb 07, 2007 08:33pm | #3

   John,
   I wouldn’t use the router table as you may have some support problems with your frame. Just make up some spacers 3/4" thick, if your rails are centered in those 3" legs, and double stick tape them down to your rails. This will level that surface to the legs. Then you can run your router around the frame. Put the panel in with glue. That should be just fine. Or you can pin it in place with a dowel pin.
   As for bits, there are plenty of good manufacturers out there. Amana, Freud, Whiteside, CMT. I've had success with all of them. Good luck. Gary

1. 
   Mulli2007 | Feb 08, 2007 07:26am | #4

   Gary,
   Thanks for your time and great advice.
   John