Woodworking Tip: Using a Keyhole Bit on Your Router

There are several options to use when mounting your woodworking furniture to the wall. You can use a cleats, hooks, sawtooth hangers, d-ring hangers, keyhole hardware, etc. However, if you are building a lot of wall-mounted furniture and you have a router; it may be worthwhile to invest in a keyhole router bit. A keyhole router bit allows you to create the keyhole in the wood, therefore eliminating the need for additional hardware. The keyhole is seamless, durable, strong and, best of all, free.

Steps:

1.       Install the bit in your router table at the proper depth.
2.       Line the bit up in the center of your wood and set the fence.
3.       Make sure to mark the fence with start and stop position of the movement.
4.       Get a practice piece and test it (make sure you move the piece down over the bit in a vertical movement, then pull it horizontal to the desired length, then turn off the router and back it out).
 

5.       Perform the same steps mentioned in #4 with the final pieces of wood.