3d Printed Router Hinge Guide

Update: These jigs can now be purchased as a kit which includes the standard jig along with a 'slimline' jig designed to be used on door linings/frames when the door stop and architrave are in place. The jig features a short fence and smaller deck so as to not interfere with the door stop. The deck thickness is 15mm. When used with door stop thicker than this, the jig will need some shims or the door stop will need to be removed. See the final two photos for pictures of these slimline jigs. They can also be purchased separately.



Designed to be clamped (or screwed) to the door or frame and results in a perfect hinge recess. Lightweight and easy to use. Printed in durable PETG.

Comes with holes at various points on the side of the guide to be used when cutting the hinge mounts into a door frame. The holes allow rapid fixing of the template when clamping can be awkward. The holes are then concealed by the architrave.

The jigs incorporate 'rabbits ears' that allow the router to be placed into the jig whilst not touching the wood. The router can then be started (and stopped) without immediately cutting. This gives more control and avoids the cutter crashing into the jig. The jigs feature a wide deck on all sides making it easier to keep the router stable. The deck thickness is 15mm making is easier to guide the cutter as the bearing is further down inside the jig.

Designed to be used with a 12-13mm template router cutter (such as the Trend 1/4" Template Profile Router Cutter 12.7 x 9.5mm shown in the photos). The cutter is not supplied with the template. 

Available Sizes

Various sizes are available for different hinges. If you require a size not listed please contact us and we can likely manufacture it. 
To check what size you require, please measure 3 things in millimetres (see the final photo above):
  • The height along one edge
  • The overall width of the hinge when open flat
  • The central pivot (the 'centre' or knuckle) width (or the thickness of the hinge when closed)
The sizes listed above show the height x width with the knuckle thickness in brackets.

The colour of the template may vary based on materials in stock when your order is placed.

As with any template, we strongly recommend you try the template on a spare piece of wood first to ensure it's compatible with your hinge and cutter. There is always some variation in hinge sizes. If the hinge is a little tight, use a file or some sandpaper to gently remove some material from one of the inner faces of the jig.

Always secure the jig, then position the router carefully within the jig before switching it on. Equally, ensure the router has fully stopped before removing it from the jig. This will prevent damage to the jig.

If you regularly fit a variety of different hinge sizes you may be interested in our adjustable hinge jig.

Please see my other listing for Smith & Locke / Howdens latch jigs and slimline hinge jigs for door frames and linings.