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String inlay

8K views 13 replies 10 participants last post by  jw2170 
#1 ·
I'm a hobbyist woodworker who is interested in learning inlay techniques. Can anyone offer me advice regarding the use of 1/16" straight router bits for grooving for string inlay? I'm trying to decide whether it's better to use hand tools, i.e., shop-made or Lie-Nielson's inlay tools, or to make the groove with a router.

Thanks,

JPMcC
 
#3 · (Edited)
Hi JPMcC

You can get 1/16" router bits but they brake very easy, I would suggest the small saw blades for that job,,it will take the work out unlike the router bit..
The blades are 1" to 1 1/4" diam.(Dremel type) they make and sell a small hand saw holder for the blades...

Amazon.com: Dremel 670 Mini Saw Attachment: Home Improvement

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#4 ·
Greetings John and welcome to the router forums,
 
#8 · (Edited)
Hi John

" depth adjustment " well yes and no, you will see a slot in the plastic part that you can put a small screw in place with a nut and lock washer that you can use for adjust for a depth stop. :)

Very small kerf,the slot will come out very clean.
You may want to stack two blades up to get the 1/16" you want to use for the inlay strip..


"straight line cuts " many ways to do that but I would use a guide board, something for the attachment to rub on to keep running true...:)

I would also use the
Dremel 225-01 Flex Shaft Attachment
Amazon.com: Dremel 225-01 Flex Shaft Attachment: Home Improvement

It's Just a bit lighter and you can guide it essayer :)

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#11 ·
Thanks Dave. I think I've read all the articles posted on the Fine Woodworking website. The articles are excellent, but I didn't find any on routing grooves for string inlay. Instead, the articles I've read address using or making hand tools for inlay grooves. I don't know whether the width of the groove created by the hand tools is 1/16" or smaller. Nevertheless, I just bought a 1/16" bit from Rockler and will give it a try before buying either the Lie-Nielson or Veritas inlay hand tool.
 
#12 ·
JPMcC,
This is a pretty old post but just wanted you to know that today in the mail I received my 1/16th and 1/8th inch bits, some ebony and holly precut inlay, and my Bosch Colt template base and some brass template bushings. I also made the LN tools but ordered the blades from LN. I think I'm ready to start seriously playing with string inlay. I would be interested to know how far you've come since the initial post and the inlay work you're doing now. BTW, I'm brand new on this forum.
Don
 
#13 ·
Hi dvan - Welcome to the forum:)
I dunno if JP is around but I know I'd be interested in seeing some pics of what you can come up with. I've played around with a little inlay work but nothing to serious and never string inlay. Sounds fascinating. :)
 
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