Making a Catchall Tray with a Router and Template

I love making and using router templates and jigs in my shop. They can be quite valuable for pattern routing larger work pieces, or making precise repeatable parts, but they are also a great way to make small decor items like this catchall tray. Spending a little time up front making an accurate template will let you make dozens of these little trays rather quickly, without the help of a CNC machine!
This design was heavily inspired by a recent patterned plywood project by Michael Alm of Alm Fab (link below). His tray was power covered and a bit bigger, but the shape is very similar. I needed the tray to be a specific size to fit my hall table, and it turned out perfect. It will be a great spot for us to throw our keys when entering the house.
The bit I used for the routing is a bowl and tray bit from Whiteside, and the finish is a water-based stain called Whitewash by General Finishes followed by a few coats of Deft spray lacquer. The wood is birch and the final dimensions are 12"x4"x1-1/2".
Thanks so much for watching!
My Instagram:
/ natecrilly
Alm Fab Patterned Plywood Bowl:
• Carving Patterned Plyw...

[@asd67lkj]

10/10......The only video I have seen that shows the process from start to finish, including making the template...

[@ladykenja2700]

- Such an elegant, dainty piece with the contoured bottom. Thanx 4 sharing.

[@user-jx2tc5gr8j]

Makes me realize that you’re not gonna get rich in woodworking! Takes so much time. Great job btw

[@Peter-pf6bz]

WOW. So simple, so beautiful.

[@rogdotcom1]

Awesome job, looks great, lot of time and effort, well done sir 👍
If I may, put on a mask, youll thank me years later 😉

[@natecrilly742]

Thanks for watching! I normally wear a mask, but recently donated all of my extras to those in need.

[@randyrice7214]

I never thought to use scraps to guide the router along the inside of the template. This is perfect for me because I don't have any high end sanders yet. Thanks!

[@kathrynnewton8721]

Love the pale wood!

[@casualcraftsman8801]

Great job! I like the over all look especially the feet. Thanks for sharing.

[@haroldaubry8344]

Neat project! How did you cut such perfect holes at the beginning of the video? It didn’t appear you used a circle cutting jig on your router.

[@kz.irudimen]

I think there was a screw or a pin or something going through a hole in his router base and into the MDF. Kind of a circle cutting jig but integrated in the router base.

[@birkenheath]

I love it. Can you please tell me what that little sanding tool is called? Thank you.

[@gracyfurtado]

Uau!😍🇧🇷

[@Belg1970]

nice project, can I ask what is that little sanding pad called?

[@natecrilly742]

Thanks! Here’s a link:
www.woodturnerscatalog.com/p/35/2967/quick-change-Hook-and-Loop-Disc-Holder

[@kathrynnewton8721]

👏What bit are you using?

[@MrSnookerballs]

Always wear a mask. Think of your family. They will miss you.

[@andreamoore756]

Just want to say please wear a face mask when working with MDF it's really bad for your health..