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Tool Addicts

New router bits make beaded face frames easier

comments (4) July 16th, 2009 in blogs

patrick_mccombe Patrick McCombe, contributor
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The heart of the beaded face frame rig is the notching bit which sells for $50 (1 1/2-inch size). The 2-inch model sells for $55. Its a chunky bit, so the manufacturer suggests taking two passes in most instances.
The same bit is used to clip the corners on the intersecting stile or rail.
The resulting joint only takes a minute or two from start to finish.
Kregs beading bits are available in five sizes and sell for between $30 and $35 each. A set with 3 notching bits and 5 beading bit lists for $323, but is selling for $290 at the AWFS Fair.
The heart of the beaded face frame rig is the notching bit which sells for $50 (1 1/2-inch size). The 2-inch model sells for $55. Its a chunky bit, so the manufacturer suggests taking two passes in most instances. - CLICK TO ENLARGE

The heart of the beaded face frame rig is the notching bit which sells for $50 (1 1/2-inch size). The 2-inch model sells for $55. It's a chunky bit, so the manufacturer suggests taking two passes in most instances.
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Producing beaded face frames on high-end cabinets usually involves a time-consuming process of using a tablesaw to nibble out a recess where styles and rails come together. The other option, an applied bead, is nearly as time consuming and leaves nail holes. 

Kreg's solution is a hat-shaped router bit that's available in three sizes for 1 1/2-, 2- and 3-inch rails. Mounted in a table, the bits create a notch with 45-degree sides so the beaded profile can turn the corner where the styles and rails meet up.

Kreg is recommending their Beaded Face Frame System that uses an aluminum fence with an adjustable flip-up stop for speed and precision, but woodworkers unable or unwilling to shell out the $500 for the rig will likely be able to use the bits with a miter gauge equipped with a sacrificial fence by making a few test cuts. Nonetheless, the system might be a good option for cabinet shops who need a fast and easily-repeatable method for beaded face frame construction. 

 

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Comments (4)

CSomers CSomers writes: Sommerfield's Tools also employee similar method, however the notch is removed with a table saw "blade."

Other then the the different method of removing the notch, almost the same.
Posted: 8:38 am on February 2nd

DougDM DougDM writes: Great Idea, I'mabout to build my daughters kit cabs and she wants beaded frames, I always did them in 2 pieces to avoid the notching, frame plus a 3/4 bead lining all openings. This should make life a bit more enjoyable. or at least, making beaded frames.
Ditto the thanks to Kreg

Doug
Posted: 3:07 am on December 20th

bobsanders bobsanders writes: As someone who builds a lot of beaded frames on a tablesaw, this is a great solution. was thinking about a machine to do this a few years ago but it was north of $6000.

grat job Kreg!
Posted: 9:35 am on July 17th

lkazanov lkazanov writes: Finally, a set of router bits to do the job. Otherwise a guillotine cutter would have to be used. Great job Kreg!
Posted: 6:38 pm on July 16th

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