I recently used a 9.5mm diameter CMT round nose bit on my handheld trim router to etch lettering on a 4x2 piece of pine, but now the bottoms of the letters are uneven. What's the best tool or technique to smooth out these uneven areas and make the surface flat and smooth?
3 Answers
You might want to try using a scraper or even a file shaped to match your letters. This can be a precise way to remove the uneven spots without damaging the surrounding area as much as sanding might.
Another approach you could use is to torch the pine lightly, which can help with those fuzzies and make sanding a lot easier afterwards, especially in tight spots. It’s a trick that works well for finishing touches!
Pine isn't the best wood for routing because it tends to feather. A good option here is to hand sand the letters after routing. This usually helps to flatten the surface. Make sure to go gently to avoid removing too much material, and you’ll get a cleaner finish. If anyone else has tips, I’d love to hear them!
Absolutely! Taking a second light pass can sometimes help reduce that feathering too. But yeah, sanding definitely seems to be the way to go.