Thread: Bead and cove moulding

Depending on the size/radii that you want, there are router bits out there that will do that profile in one pass (OK, you should either use a straight bit to remove the easy bits, or do it in a couple of passes - I have a 3hp+ router) - I think the problem is that you are looking at it the wrong way around. With a router you wil have to cut the profile with the board standing on its narrow edge, and with a couple of vertically spaced feather boards to stop the board from tilting as you push it past the bit.

The bits are referred to as 'molding' bits, are almost all 1/2" shank and have a ball bearing on the nose. The bearing would run along the flat of the board if you could use these by hand, but that is a quick way to chew up the wood and possibly a few body parts as well. The real function of the bearing is to give you something to easily reference off when setting up the extra tall fence.

Molding Bits - Lee Valley Tools - Woodworking Tools, Gardening Tools, Hardware Supplies French Provincial #1 and #2 are a possibility - you just have to hold the monitor upside down

Rockler are another online dealer I have successfully ordered from, and there are a heap of other router bit dealers on the 'Net.

McJing at Yagoona NSW have most of the same profiles in their catalog, you just have to find them on the wall if you go to the shop. Carbatec are also worth a look - they have an online catalog of both CMT and house brand bits, and its easier to find the bit in the glass case.

Thank you, bsrlee.

The French Provincial #1 looks identical. I'll search locally for a bit before ordering from overseas now I know they exist and what they're called.

Just in case this thread has caught the interest of anybody else, I found an article on building up a crown moulding from parts:

http://www.woodworkingseminars.com/w...ownmolding.pdf