Roll Top Desk

I am just getting into woodworking and I've started a rolltop desk. I just received your Tambour bit set and am having a little trouble.  My router
table lacks the precision stuff so setting the height of the bit is difficult and getting the amount to take out on the first cuts have been difficult.  For instance how wide should the bead be to fit properly in the groove?


If you could give me a few remedial pointers I would be forever in your debt.  I am jazzed about doing this rather than buying a premade.


-Loren W.

East Amherst , NY

Our Expert

The ball-and-socket joint should pivot freely so that the completed tambour will slide smoothly in the groove. The "ball" is shaped by making cuts from both faces of the stock. Pushing the router table fence back and exposing more of the router 
bit will reduce the size of the ball.

The best method for sizing the ball is to use a test piece of stock and fit it into the socket. Gradually push the fence back 
and continue testing the fit until the two parts pivot freely. Then shape the tambour stock.

 

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