Our standard "Cutting Solid Surface" article details cutting solid surface using a router without a template guide (often called a router collar). The few key differences and adjustments that must be made to use a router with a template guide are outlined below.
Key difference
Without a Template Guide
Router base rides on material with
base held tight against straight edge
With a Template Guide
Router base rides on straight edge with
template guide held tight against straight edge
Locating Straight Edge
Without a Template Guide
Measure from router bit edge to
outside of router base
With a Template Guide
Cut Offset = (Template Guide Width - Router Bit Width) / 2
Using a template guide requires a much wider straight edge. Because the router base now rides on top of the straight edge, you must have sufficient room to clamp the straight edge and still clear the clamps while making your router cut. If you don't have a wide enough straight edge, consider removing your template guide and making your router cut without it.
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