I use the right hand thumb and curled fingers as a mnemonic for
feeding into a rotating bit. Thumb represents the router bit
projecting out of the base/table. Thumb pointed up means
counterclockwise bit rotation therefore stock is passed in front of
the bit from right to left INTO rotating bit cutters. Handheld with
thumb pointing down cutting edges are clockwise rotation and router is
passed in front of the wood from left to right. When table is used
for edging long and end grain the end grain edges are cut using a
climb cut with stock held FIRMLY to avoid be torn out of my hands, for
about 1" or 2" then conventional direction for balance of that edge.

On 5 Nov 2005 21:54:37 -0800, wrote:

Great advice. I have cut out hundreds of pieces with the bandsaw in the
last couple years and run them through the router. For months I ran the
pieces in all directions on the router because I didn't know better.
After some reading though I realized just what you wrote above
Nate...to only go against the bit. I worry about the router everytime I
use it though, it's a dangerous tool. I intend to buy some push pads
right away after reading the info that Clint posted.

I think at this point I will try and cut out most of the shape with a
bandsaw and then take it to the router to see if that works. I will be
very careful!

thanks again!

II