Carol, I had the same problem on my new table/fence. So I added a board (I think 8 inch wide) to my fence, then I added a T-track about an inch, inch and a half from the top of the new board. Now I've got plenty room. The picture below was after the board, but before the t-track had arrived. I'll leave the "up on edge" idea to some of the more experienced routsmen! ;o)

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y258/KaptainKajun/RouterTable5.jpg

 

It should work either way unless the board is a lot taller than the fence. If you try and go handheld, you will probably have to keep moving clamps around out of the way. I don't normally worry about feather boards when rounding edges off as the only way the board can go is away from the bit, and fence if on a table. You can do it on a table without a fence with a bearing guided bit which is probably what you have. I do usually make a second pass just in case I didn't get it smooth on the 1st. Rounding over, especially with a bearing guided bit, is one of the most foolproof operations you can do with a router.

 

Carol, since all you want to do is round over an edge the best way is to use a round over bit with a bearing on top and a safety starting pin. I think you would really benefit from the Router Workshop video's. They teach all the basics and some really neat tricks as well.

 

Good ideas

Thank you all. I just didn't want to do something idiotic.

Chuck, yes, the bit has a guide bearing. N-awlins, I will look into building a taller fence. I see a "universal t-track" from Rockler that is not expensive.
Universal T-Track - Rockler Woodworking Tools

They also have a T-slot bit if I wanted to make a gazillion accessory guides. Maybe later.
Rockler T-Slot Cutter Router Bit - Rockler Woodworking Tools

Mike, I will look again at those videos. I am also planning to go to the NW Indiana Woodworkers Association meeting at the end of the month. It's only about 20 miles away.

C

 

Featherboard

One of our members made this rolling feather board some time ago, and i thought it was such a good idea I copied and now use it all the time.

5584230585_dedea10ae7_m.jpg (19.6 KB)

 

Carol, you could also check here for T-track they have good deals on it.
ttrackusa Home Page

 

Hi carolinchicago

Here's just one more feather board that works great on the router table and the table saw..I use it on the router tables I have and the table saws..it lets the stock slide by but it will not let it go back...

http://www.routerforums.com/shop-safety/9874-ice-hold-downs.html

http://www.routerworkshop.com/featherbd.html

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Safety is a HUGE concern when running a router (any tool for that matter), however featherboards are there to hold the piece down, or to push the piece in towards a fence, so they could be replaced with any small 1x that is high enuf to get two clamps on, and long enuf to hold your piece down.
Many a time I have used "push sticks" or a "push pad" with foam or sandpaper attached to the bottom to get "traction", and they work well. But if you dont feel safe trying something, DONT DO IT.

john