Door Making

You need a rail-and-stile set (also called a cope-and-stick set) to cut the frame joinery and profile, and a raised panel bit to shape the center panel. Sets like the 3-piece Cabinet Door Router Bit Set include all three bits and a setup block.

A rail-and-stile set contains two matching bits: a stile bit that cuts the decorative profile and panel groove along the length of each frame member, and a rail (cope) bit that cuts the mating profile and cope on the ends of the cross members. The two cuts interlock to form the frame joint.

A backcutter undercuts the inside wall of the panel groove in the assembled frame, creating a recess that allows a glass panel or thin decorative insert to drop in from the front without disassembly. It is essential for glass door construction and is included in the Ultimate Glass Door Making Router Bit Set.

A horizontal raised panel bit cuts with the panel lying flat on the router table — it requires a large-diameter bit and a powerful router. A vertical raised panel bit runs the panel on edge against a fence, using a smaller-diameter bit that is safer and requires less horsepower. Choose based on your router table setup and router motor capacity.

Door-making bits, especially raised panel bits, should be run on 1/2" shank to minimize vibration and deflection. All sets in this collection use 1/2" shanks.

A setup block is highly recommended. It lets you set bit height to the correct reference dimension without multiple test cuts and scrap pieces. Many sets include a free setup block; separate setup blocks are also available in the router bits collection.

Yes, but you will also need cabinet door templates to guide the router along the curved rail profile. The rail-and-stile bits shape the flat cope and stick joints; the templates handle the arc.

Hardwoods such as maple, cherry, oak, and poplar are the most common choices for painted and stained doors. The frame stock should be straight-grained and properly dried. Solid wood panels should be sized to allow for seasonal movement within the groove. Visit the Infinity Tools blog for door-making tips.

Rail-and-stile bits are best used in a router table for safe, controlled cope cuts on the ends of rails. Raised panel bits should always be used in a router table at reduced RPM to keep the large-diameter bit under control.

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