cutting formica/aborite

[Matrix]

what is the best method/tool for cutting arborite/formica. is the hand router the best tool for the job.

i was told it can be scored and snapped off. is that true?

thanks in advance.

[Rustynut]

It can be, but the results are much better using the router with the proper cutting blade (especially for formica/arborite) that way you do not risk splintering as you bend to break it off.

Use masking tape and lay the cut line right on the masking tape, that will also help reduce chances of splitting or splintering the finish.

A router with the proper bit will eliminate that extra step for the most part leaving you with a clean machined edge.

[Matrix]

i figured that would be the scenario.

if the router is the safest/cleanest... i'll go with that. the routers are approx. $80-$100 @ Rona or Home Depot.

thanks for the tip Rustynut. :)

[Dr.Dan]

If you really don't need to own a router (for other projects), then look at a multi purpose tool such as a rotary tool or spiral-cut saw (Like Dremel (http://www.dremel.com/HTML/home_fr.html) or RotoZip (http://www.rotozip.com/)) (spiral-cut saws are more powerful;))
You can buy Dremel in kits with hundreds of of bits and tools, and if it doesn't have it in the kit, you can buy a router attachment for it ;)
http://www.dremel.com/productdisplay/att_template.asp?SKU=335&Color=99CCFF

http://www.rotozip.com/attachmentsdetail.aspx?p_intAttachID=9

[Rustynut]

i figured that would be the scenario.

if the router is the safest/cleanest... i'll go with that. the routers are approx. $80-$100 @ Rona or Home Depot.

thanks for the tip Rustynut. :)
No prob, I learned the hard way. :( By the 3rd counter top I also invested in a router! :hst:

Dr Dan also has a great Idea, to use those rotary saws, they work great!

[Matrix]

[size=-1]You can buy Dremel in kits with hundreds of of bits and tools, and if it doesn't have it in the kit, you can buy a router attachment for it ;)
http://www.dremel.com/productdisplay/att_template.asp?SKU=335&Color=99CCFF


looks like the best bet. max. 35000 rpm & bonus for the bits and tools. :cool: need a good finish.

[Matrix]

By the 3rd counter top I also invested in a router! :hst:


sorry to hear... thanks for sharing your experience. :)

[Rustynut]

sorry to hear... thanks for sharing your experience. :)
Hey, it didn't cost me for the counter tops, I worked for a factory that built double wide homes back in the 70's. Materials were free but the tools were our responsibility.

[Neal]

I used an arborite cutting blade and a hand file for the edges like I was taught in school. I think that was before the router was invented. The router or power tool is the way to go for sure unless you have tons of time on your hands.

[Carz n Compz]

You can rent a router from Home Depot.

[frostyone]

Router is the way to go.
Canadian Tire also has a package of 3 router bits specifically for counter tops.

One bit is just a straight cutter. Used for making initial slightly oversized cut of formica . (Or cuting out sink)

Then after it's glued to the base, use the other bits to either cut flush to edge or beveled back.
Those 2 bits have a bearing which follows the edge.
No problem to get the right fit.