Below are instructions and photos for basic template routing using your vacuum clamping blocks.

The bottom photo shows the vacuum blocks below the template and the work piece on top of the template.  For this shelf apron 1/2" particle board was used for the template. Particle board makes great templates as it is stable, easy to machine, and inexpensive.  However, it must be sealed with a coat of polyurethane as it is very porous and can affect the holding power of the blocks.

To make a template.  Draw your design on the template material and cut out the template.  Carefully shape and sand the edge of the template as any imperfections in the template will show up in your final work piece. Drill 1/4" holes in the template for each block you use to allow vacuum to pass through to hold your work.

Apply weatherstrip to the top of the template to cover as much area of your work piece as possible. (see top photo) The best weatherstrip to use if you are only going to make a few pieces is closed cell vinyl as it compresses well, is available at almost any hardware store, and is inexpensive.  If you are planning a large run of pieces you may want to use something more durable like the EPDM foam tape that comes with our blocks.

Place the blocks on your workbench. Turn on your vacuum source and set the template on the blocks. Align the blocks so that the holes in the template are within the sealed area of the blocks but not directly above the valves in the blocks as the template must release the valves for the vacuum to hold the work piece. Lay your rough cut work piece on the template, make sure you have at least 15 inches of vacuum and rout the work piece.

When template routing, it is always best to rough cut your work piece leaving approximately 1/16" to 1/8" to trim off with the router.  This makes for a smother cut with less chatter.  Remember to double check and make sure you have enough vacuum to properly hold your work. Wear safety glasses and follow all safety rules when using power tools. 

Photo shows the top of the template
with foam tape applied, and holes
drilled to allow vacuum to pass from
the blocks through the template to
hold the work piece. 

Photo shows work piece attached to
template and routed.