Router inlay templates that fit the first time
An inlay has two parts: a recess cut into the workpiece and a plug that drops into it. Both have to come from the same shape, offset in opposite directions, with just enough clearance for glue.
How Rideline's inlay pair works
Choose Inlay pair and Rideline makes two templates from one shape with the same bit and bushing:
- Recess template: an opening offset outward by the bushing offset. The bushing rides inside it.
- Plug template: a piece offset inward by the bushing offset plus your clearance. The bushing rides around it.
It then checks that the simulated plug fits inside the simulated recess and warns you if they interfere anywhere. A clearance of 0.004" (0.1 mm) per side is a good starting point for hardwood. Add more for thick glue or wood that moves.
Corners: the part that ruins inlays
The recess's inside corners can never be sharper than the bit's radius. The plug's outside corners come out rounded to the offset, which is larger than the bit's radius, so the plug always clears the recess corners. You'll see a small gap at sharp corners. Use rounded designs, or the smallest bit and bushing you have, for tighter corners.
Butterfly keys (bowties)
For bowties, use Bowties.cc, our dedicated butterfly key generator. It has classic, soft-cornered, curved and rounded-end styles, quick 2" to 6" sizes, recess and key templates for a router and guide bushing, single templates for brass inlay kits, and laser-cut keys with kerf compensation. It checks that the key fits the recess before you cut. See its butterfly key size chart and how-to guide.
You can also make a simple bowtie here: pick the Bowtie shape, set the length, end width and waist, and choose Inlay pair. Rout the recess across the crack, about a third to half of the slab's thickness. Cut the plug from contrasting stock slightly thicker than the recess is deep, glue it in and plane it flush.
Single-template inlay kits
Inlay kits use one template, a bushing, a removable collar and a small bit. The collar's OD minus the bushing's OD equals twice the bit diameter. With the collar on, you cut the recess. With the collar off, you cut the plug from the same template, offset by exactly one bit width. A kit with a 3/8" bushing, a 5/8" collar and a 1/8" bit fits that rule. To make a template for a kit, use Rideline's Pocket mode with your bit and the collar diameter as the bushing, and design the shape at the size of the recess you want.