Biscuit Joint With A Router

You could cut "biscuit" slots with a router by setting the depth and sliding the router into the timber. Whilst the thickness will be ok the length could be a little off - but won't be seen.
however you could try cutting a spline joint or even sections of a spline joint.



Or for drawers you could try a lock joint



Your router is more than capable of doing these - If you google "slot cutting router bit" there are quite a few out there

 

Have a look on the Trend website: http://www.trend-uk.com/en/UK/product/342X1_4TC/4/113/biscuit_jointer_set.html for a set that works with te normal sized biscuits: 0, 10 & 20

 

You can get 4mm slotter cheaper elsewhere.
The problem with biscuit joining a picture frame is that unless it is a very large frame the slot will show.

 

For Picture frames as your doing, you would really want to go with the Lock Joint, i used to do a fair bit of Framing years ago and that's how i done them. As always do a few test runs on scrap pieces to get an idea of what the finish will look like and make adjustments where needed before you go for the finished work.

Goodluck with it whichever method you choose

Bertie

 

For finished framing, Eg Ash, Mahogany, walnut etc i simply used carpenters wood glue and tied them up with sash clamps until dry, since then other products are available which i would use now such as mitre adhesive or joiners mate, you can also use a pin gun if you so choose.

Bertie

 

You just run the bit along the edge from one side to the other. With these it is best to use a small router table - you can either make your own or get one from the local German mini mart for about £20 when they are on offer. They aren't fantastic but they are very light and portable quite a few trade guys keep on in the van because of this.

The lock joints are very strong

Practising splined joints is well worth it as they make incredibly strong joints and can be hidden or a decorative feature and you can use the slotting bit

 

No problem

Router tables are very much a personal thing, so many people make their own and then keep on There are lots of plans on the internet and videos on you tube. One thing when using a router table and cutting end grain on small strips, use a sled or fence and avoid holding in it in our hands

 

Look on Ebay for router table, might find a bargain.

 

Nothing wrong with making one from MDF use 18mm for it. If you dont have the money for a router table dont buy one mate, because you would need to justify the investment and how much use you would get from it on a daily basis.

I would go with the MDF route for now, then build up towards a router table when you have the means. Quality tools are expensive and they take time to aquire, just view the home made router table as a stepping stone and practice.