raised panel opinion question
Do any of you ever let a raised panel sit proud of the rails and stiles? I'm building a panelled blanket chest of cherry with a bit fancier raised panels on the front and ends. I just picked up a new panel raising bit that is appropriate for that size panel. But if I keep the vertical part just above the field to a small, neat looking size, and the rails and stiles matching that same part, the panel will protrude above the rails and stiles by about 5/32". It is not too noticable on samples, but I just can't see that looking good. Maybe it's just me. I've read of folks doing that, but never really could see how it would look the best.
It is kind of tough getting enough of the specs to get them (bits) to match level without buying a complete set, which I haven't done.
David
Use CMT Marc Sommerfeld bits!
The CMT Marc Sommerfeld bits produce flush rail/stile/panels. I've tried it, and they work. The other cool thing about this set is that you set the height of the first bit, and then just drop in the other bits (without changing heights). I have one of his little electrical grommets in the bottom of the router collet, so the bit doesn't bottom out, and that's all it takes.
I'm very happy with these bits.
Ed