I turn wood lamp bases sometimes, and I’ve found that a standard keyhole router bit (the large diameter is just over 3⁄8 in.) cuts a perfect slot for a standard lamp cord. After the turning is done, I cut the slot freehand, starting in the counterbored area in the center of the underside of the base. The bit wanders a little but not enough to matter, and I’ve never had a problem with chipout at the edge if I make sure the bit emerges slowly. The cord goes in sideways and then seats nicely in the bottom of the slot. I usually glue flannel or cork over the bottom of the base to finish the job.

—George McCune, Chico, Calif