When cutting stopped dadoes on the router table, marking the fence at the bit’s leading and trailing edges will show its location in the workpiece and help you start and stop the cut in the correct places.

This jig helps place those marks accurately. Drill through a scrap of straight-edged hardwood with a Forstner bit the same diameter as your router bit. With a knife and square, mark two lines from the hole’s rim to the board’s edge. Place the jig over the bit and transfer the lines to the fence. Sized properly, the gauge can also help set the bit’s distance from the fence.

Jim Richey

Fine Woodworking Recommended Products

Woodriver Circle Cutting Jig

The WoodRiver circle jig, which produces cuts up to 32-1/2 in. dia., and I can confidently recommend it. Unlike similar jigs that can pop off of their pivots mid-cut, ruining a panel in the process, this one has a robust pivot point that registers securely in the jig and workpiece.

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Hedgehog featherboards

The Hedgehog's unique spiral shape and single knob make it easy to set up and fast to adjust.

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MicroJig Matchfit dovetail clamps

These unique clamps have angled tips that hold templates and fences in place without getting in the way.

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