I'd like a piece of wood so that it has rectangular shapes cut or routered out of the edge. What do I need?

Question

The piece should look like this. Ugh, text pic not coming out. Nevermind that.

Those grooves would be a few inches long and about 1/4" to 3/4" deep. Basically, yeah, they're 4" square grooves that are about 3/4" deep or so.

If I could use a router, what type bit? I'm confused how it would route a square rather than a circle at the far edges.

Thanks,
Matt

Answer 1

they make bits for the router that will cut square.
just look at the picture of the groove on the router bit package, it shows you what the groove looks like and gives you it's dimensions.
if you want the groove the entire length of the board, you can also use a table saw and a dado blade. Just ask at the hardware store.

Answer 2

Hi Matt,

There are all kinds of router bits. Round overs, square, ogees, etc., etc., etc. Draw a scale model profile of what you want the edge of the board to look like and bring it to a hardward type store. They'll show you what bits you'll need to get 'er done.