Today in the shop (Spirocraftering)

[reible]

Is spirocraftering a word? For the purpose of this project we will assume it is and I'll let you decide if you ever want to use it it for your own project threads.

Many years ago I got a Milescraft SpiroCrafter. If I had to guess I'd say maybe 2004??? It is router thing and as such was pretty much a must buy for me. In very basic terms it is a system that holds a template, allows the template to be rotated and makes designs by way of a router bit.

If you are confused feel free to google it or wait and read on where there are pictures.

For today's project I wanted to put a little spice on my plank chair and I thought what better way then to use the spirocrafter and do some spirocraftering.

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The one I purchased had just two template but later they came out with two more. I have not been keeping up so I'm not sure if any more were ever developed. I was able to upgrade my system by adding the additional two templates.

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The manual came with some sketches to show the pattern and how to make it by way of which template, which rotational step, which part of the template to follow and the likes.

You can also change things by which router bit you use and how deep/shallow you make the cuts. Then of course there is how you finish it as always.

Part of the kit is a base plate for your router. The base plate that came with the set did not have holes matching the router I wanted to use so it was lucky that I had yet another one of their products which did have a matching hole set.

I wanted to use my compact dewalt router for this, love that little fella and it works great for so many projects. So you remove the base plate that came with the router and find the matching holes on the milescrafter one and then using the centering tool they provided you get things lined up and tightened. For a bit I wanted to use a box core bit in the 1/4" size and the instructions said to use a 17 mm guide bushing. The term they have is TurnLock bushings and the 17 mm size came with the kit.

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The kit also comes with a pencil holder so you can trace the template to see what it will sort of look like. I did one to show you but the picture is such that it is difficult to see line.... to late to go and take another one now. Anyway you can get the idea anyway, right?

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Of course you need to find where you want the design then work out where the template holder sits. I used some clamps to hold it in place but it does have screw holes as an option.

Next post we will start the routing.

Ed

[reible]

This is the basic setup I was using. Note that I also added some double sided tape on the end where I couldn't clamp the holder down. Just how I role and it might not have been needed but I did it anyway.

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The router is placed in the template and you follow the guide bushing in a clockwise direction to complete the first cut.

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The template is then moved to the next location. In this case the #3 design is moved to ever other notch. This means it is in an A or a C position as you go around.

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When you do all the way around you are done with the routing part of the process and you get to see your design.

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Erase the guide lines and sand.

I'm thinking I might color this in say black or orange or ?? then put a simple finish on to show off the wood. Still not sure but I'm happy with the design so that is good enough for today.

Ed

[benush26]

I cannot recall seeing anything like that. Very cool!

Be well,
Ben

[moose]

I remember looking at these at Lowes and being a bit confused. Thank you so much for posting. It's another perfect project for these new small routers.

[joedw00]

My wife bought one for me years ago, but never used it. Like moose said it is a bit confusing. Thanks for the posting. Might give it a try now.

[JPG]

http://www.milescraft.com/products/sign ... inlay-kit/

Lowe's, Woodcraft.

[moggymatt]

I have one of those too. Used it on couple of planter boxes a few years ago and forgot all about it till your post. Great Job!

[neal560sl]

I have to say that is very cool, as well as what looks like a Chrysler Cordoba in the back ground of the first picture. Very nice touch to the chair Ed.

[jsburger]

http://www.milescraft.com/products/sign ... inlay-kit/

Lowe's, Woodcraft.

Lowes does not seem to have it but Home Depot does.

[JPG]

http://www.milescraft.com/products/sign ... inlay-kit/

Lowe's, Woodcraft.

Lowes does not seem to have it but Home Depot does.

Location, location, location?

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