Need advice on router templates!

[Harry Thornton]

OK, I got my router guide bushings and I am ready to make my templates. the router guide sticks out of the router almost a half inch? I got the plastic ones so that I could cut them off more easily if necessary. Question: what material do you make the template with? Half inch plywood seems kind of thick but would be easy to work with once made. Should I use a thinner template and cut off the guide or just go with the 1/2 inch plywood or MDF or whatever?:confused:

[Ted Shrader]

Harry -

I like MDF for templates. You don't have to worry about voids, etc like in plywood. It is consistant trhoughout and easy to shape to the desired pattern. Also works well for bearing guided bits for the same reasons.

Ted

[Herb Blair]

i use 1/4" MDF. Works great!

[Michael Perata]

I am with Ted, if you can find 1/4" or 3/8" MDF in you neighborhood, I would use that in place of 1/2" MDF