This project was built and designed by Jay Bates. It’s a smart, space-saving router table made specifically for a trim router, offering a simple and efficient setup for small shops.
Jay takes an old nightstand, repurposes it into a sturdy base, and creates a dedicated router station with dust collection access built right in. The design focuses on practicality, stability, and efficient use of limited workspace.
Watch the full video and subscribe to Jay’s channel:
The Need for a Compact Solution
In a busy workshop, keeping tools organized and accessible is crucial. Jay needed a router table that wouldn’t occupy a full workbench or floor area but still offered full functionality.
The idea came from repurposing a small cart that had previously supported a drill press. By installing a new router table above the cart, the wasted vertical space would finally be put to good use.
Initial Design and Planning
The design for the benchtop router table is intentionally simple: two side panels and a top that support the router and fence. A key element is adding continuous box joints along the top to increase stability and prevent racking.
By placing the trim router near the shop vac, Jay ensures that dust collection will be straightforward and convenient. Keeping everything close together also improves workflow efficiency during routing tasks.
Building the Structure
Before cutting any parts, Jay prepares the wood carefully, paying close attention to the router’s mounting plate. The acrylic plate is used as a template to mark hole locations, ensuring a perfect fit when installing the trim router.
A Forstner bit creates counterbored holes for the screws, allowing the router to sit flush and secure. Since plywood is relatively thin, longer screws are chosen to provide extra grip and strength.
Initially, Jay considers installing a solid back panel for added rigidity. However, the box joints provide so much stability that only a small inset back piece is needed to lock everything together.
Constructing the Router Table Fence
The fence is built from two pieces of plywood joined together to form a strong, straight guide. Care is taken to cut an opening in the fence that matches the diameter of the largest router bit expected to be used.
This opening also serves as an access point for dust collection, letting sawdust be pulled away easily from behind the bit. The design keeps the workspace clean without complicating the build.
Final Assembly and Finishing Touches
Once the main structure and fence are complete, Jay applies two coats of shellac to all surfaces. Shellac seals the wood and provides a durable, easy-to-clean finish that resists wear and tear.
The completed router table is designed to rest securely on top of the nightstand. It can be removed quickly if the original drill press function is needed again, making the entire setup highly versatile.
Maximizing Efficiency in a Small Shop
One of the standout features of this router table is its quick setup. Jay designs it so that the router is ready to go as soon as it’s plugged in, minimizing downtime and maximizing shop efficiency.
Having dust collection built into the table and positioned near the router makes cleanup simple. This convenience encourages more frequent use, which in turn makes the shop more productive overall.
A Practical, Everyday Upgrade
Jay emphasizes that a tool station must be both easy to build and easy to use. If a station is complicated or cumbersome, it tends to sit unused in the corner of the shop.
This benchtop router table meets those expectations with a small footprint, a strong frame, and thoughtful design details. It’s simple to use, sturdy under pressure, and adaptable to different project needs.
A Small Build with Big Benefits
For woodworkers dealing with limited space, this router table offers a practical solution without sacrificing performance. It’s compact enough for a tight shop but still strong enough to handle everyday routing tasks.
The combination of repurposed furniture, clean joinery, and functional design demonstrates how simple upgrades can make a big difference in workshop organization. It’s a reminder that creativity and planning are often the most valuable tools in a woodworker’s kit.
Please support Jay by purchasing his plans here: Jay’s Custom Creations.