Face routing a curved workpiece

[Kodi Crescent]

I'm trying to rout a decorative groove into the face of this object.  I'd like the groove to be 1cm from the edge around the perimeter. 

I'm struggling with how I'd follow that curve using either a router or a router table.  It seems like I could use the MFK 700 in the edge band trimming position with the guide bearing.  However, the MFK 700 plate isn't deep enough to allow this. [mad]

Any other suggestions for how to do this?  I have the MFK 700, 1010, 1400, and a router table at my disposal.  Are there different sized pins and bearings for the router table that would facilitate this?

Thanks!

 

[Samo]

I would think a router template with double sided tape covering the body of the piece.  You would need to plunge in, as not to accidentally groove the outer edge.

Looks like a fun challenge.  If it was me, I would practice whatever setup you jig up on scrap.

 

[Getmaverick]

Google pin router. Look at images and you will see some jigs you can easily make to do this.

 

[WarnerConstCo.]

Google pin router. Look at images and you will see some jigs you can easily make to do this.

That is how I would do it, but I have 2 SCM R9 pin routers set up.

 

[Samo]

Yes! Pin Router...... remember wanting a setup that takes a PC router and not expensive.

Never did it and would hardly use it.

Best thing is a buddy with a big ass cabinet shop.  🕶

 

[Kodi Crescent]

I'm really surprised there is not a router plate mounted feeler bearing on an adjustable slide.  This would allow me to set the bearing a certain distance from the workpiece, and then follow the perimeter of the workpiece while the piece cuts from underneath.

 

[Mark Katz]

I'm really surprised there is not a router plate mounted feeler bearing on an adjustable slide.  This would allow me to set the bearing a certain distance from the workpiece, and then follow the perimeter of the workpiece while the piece cuts from underneath.

The only way this would work is if there was a way to keep the line between the bearing and the bit perpendicular to the edge of the workpiece, which would be difficult with a curved edge.

Your piece looks fairly large but not that complex. What I would do is to make a template that is the size of the inner edge of your desired groove. You can spend as much time as needed to refine the template until it is the exact size and shape you need. Then, attach the template to the workpiece (double-sided tape?) and rout around that. You would still need to be really careful to keep the bearing against the template at all times.