By Claire WhitakerUpdated November 2026
Choosing a wood inlay router kit comes down to a few practical questions: how big your inlays need to be, how often you plan to use the kit, and whether you want a bare-bones setup or a more complete system with templates, bushings and a frame. This list compares six kits that suit a range of decorative work, from simple bowtie and butterfly inlays to standard brass-template inlay sets. Each pick is judged on what its specifications and listing details say about cutting diameter, template compatibility, included parts and suitability for common inlay projects, along with patterns owners commonly report.
Our top picks at a glance
- 1
TOP CHOICEBest overallPOWERTEC Router Brass Inlay Kit (71333)View on Amazon - 2
TOP CHOICEBest for standard brass-template inlaysWhiteside 9500 Solid Brass Inlay KitView on Amazon - 3
TOP CHOICEBest for high-RPM routing71333 Router Bits Solid Brass Inlay KitView on Amazon - 4
Best budget pickRouter Template Guide Set Solid Brass Inlay KitView on Amazon - 5
Best for bowtie inlaysRockler 3-in-1 Bow Tie Inlay KitView on Amazon - 6
Best for decorative variety8 in 1 Router Templates Bowtie and Butterfly Jig KitView on Amazon
Our Top Picks
Quick Comparison
| Product | Best for | Key feature |
|---|---|---|
| POWERTEC Router Brass Inlay Kit (71333) | General inlay work with a complete setup | Centering pin, collar and 1/8″ carbide bit |
| Whiteside 9500 Solid Brass Inlay Kit | Standard brass-template inlays | 1/8″ cutting diameter with 1/16″ inside corner radius |
| 71333 Router Bits Solid Brass Inlay Kit | High-RPM routing | Universal bushing, retainer nut and alignment pin |
| Router Template Guide Set Solid Brass Inlay Kit | Buyers wanting a straightforward set | Solid brass bushing set for 1/4″ templates |
| Rockler 3-in-1 Bow Tie Inlay Kit | Bowtie inlays | Includes a precision frame |
| 8 in 1 Router Templates Bowtie and Butterfly Jig Kit | Varied decorative patterns | Eight template shapes in one kit |
POWERTEC Router Brass Inlay Kit (71333)
POWERTEC Router Brass Inlay Kit with Router Bushing Guide Set + Centering Pin, Collar & 1/8" Diameter x 1/4" Shank Solid Carbide Router Bit, Compatible w/ 1/4" Router Templates for Woodworking (71333)
Best for: General inlay work with a complete setup
This kit suits woodworkers who want a full set of inlay parts in one package, especially those working with 1/4″ router templates and standard brass bushings.
Key specs
- 1/8″ diameter x 1/4″ shank solid carbide router bit
- Compatible with 1/4″ router templates
- Includes router bushing guide set, centering pin and collar
Pros
- Includes the bit, bushings and centering pin in one package
- Standard 1/4″ template compatibility keeps template options open
- Solid carbide bit suits repeated use on hardwoods
Cons
- Limited to the 1/8″ cutting diameter in the listing
- Tool-specific setup may take time for first-time users
Bottom line: A good first kit for someone who wants a complete starting point for standard inlays.
Whiteside 9500 Solid Brass Inlay Kit
Whiteside 9500 Solid Brass Inlay Kit: 1/8 Inch Cutting Diameter, RD1600, 1/16 Inch Inside Corner Radius, Standard Inlay Kit
Best for: Standard brass-template inlays
Woodworkers who follow traditional inlay methods with brass template guides will find this kit’s specifications familiar and practical.
Key specs
- 1/8″ cutting diameter
- RD1600 designation as listed
- 1/16″ inside corner radius
Pros
- Clearly stated cutting diameter and corner radius
- Solid brass construction suits repeated template use
- Whiteside is a long-established name in router bits
Cons
- Inside corner radius limits how sharp inlay corners can be
- Less included accessory detail is visible in the listing name
Bottom line: Suited to makers who want a proven brand and standard brass-template workflow.
71333 Router Bits Solid Brass Inlay Kit
71333 Router Bits Solid Brass Inlay Kit for 1/4 Templates for High RPM Routing, Includes 1/8" Carbide Router Bit/Cutter + 1/4" Shank, Universal Bushing, Retainer Nut, Collar and Alignment Pin
Best for: High-RPM routing
This kit is aimed at users who run their routers at higher speeds and want a universal bushing and retainer system.
Key specs
- 1/8″ carbide router bit with 1/4″ shank
- Universal bushing, retainer nut, collar and alignment pin included
- Designed for 1/4″ router templates
Pros
- Lists a complete set of hardware in the name
- Universal bushing may fit a range of template setups
- Alignment pin helps with repeatable positioning
Cons
- High-RPM use requires a router rated for that speed
- Owners often recommend confirming bushing fit before first use
Bottom line: Best for woodworkers with a compatible high-speed router who want a fuller hardware set.
Router Template Guide Set Solid Brass Inlay Kit
for Router Template Guide Set Solid Brass Router Inlay Kit 71333 Fits for 1/4 Router Templates for Wood Router Inlay Bushing Kit for Template Guide Set Solid Brass 71333 for Wood
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers wanting a straightforward set
Hobbyists who want a basic brass bushing set for wood inlay work without extra accessories will find this kit covers the essentials.
Key specs
- Solid brass construction
- Fits 1/4″ router templates
- Labeled for use with 71333 style inlay bits
Pros
- Simple, focused set for common inlay tasks
- Solid brass bushings resist wear better than plastic
- Good entry point for trying inlay work
Cons
- Fewer included accessories than fuller kits
- Compatibility should be confirmed against your router and template
Bottom line: A sensible choice for learners and occasional inlay projects.
Rockler 3-in-1 Bow Tie Inlay Kit
Bow Tie Inlay Kit – Decorative Inlay Creation – Inlay Templates – 3-in-1 Kit – Precision Frame Included Rockler 3-in-1 Bow Tie Inlay Kit w/Frame – Woodworking Templates
Best for: Bowtie inlays
Makers who want to build decorative bowtie and related inlays will benefit from the included precision frame and template system.
Key specs
- 3-in-1 kit configuration
- Includes precision frame
- Designed for bowtie inlay templates
Pros
- Rockler is a well-known woodworking supplier
- Precision frame aids layout and alignment
- Focused on a specific decorative style
Cons
- Narrower use than general brass-template kits
- Owners often note the frame setup takes some practice
Bottom line: Ideal for anyone whose projects center on bowtie-style decorative inlays.
8 in 1 Router Templates Bowtie and Butterfly Jig Kit
8 in 1 Router Templates for Woodworking, Router Jig Bowtie Template for Woodworking, Bowtie Router Template Jig Kit, Butterfly Inlay Template Decorative
Best for: Varied decorative patterns
Woodworkers who want to experiment with several inlay shapes, including bowtie and butterfly designs, in one kit will find the variety useful.
Key specs
- 8-in-1 template configuration
- Bowtie and butterfly inlay shapes
- Designed as a router jig
Pros
- Multiple shapes in one purchase
- Useful for decorative variety on small projects
- Jig format suits repeatable layouts
Cons
- Template quality can vary, and owners often recommend checking fit
- Shape variety may mean less depth in any single style
Bottom line: A good pick for makers who want to try several decorative inlay shapes without buying separate templates.
Buying Guide
Bit diameter and cutting size
Most kits in this list are built around a 1/8″ cutting diameter, which suits standard inlay work such as banding, small stringing and decorative corners. Check the diameter before you buy, because it determines the smallest detail you can cut and the width of the inlay strip you’ll need.
Good picks for this: Whiteside 9500 Solid Brass Inlay Kit, POWERTEC Router Brass Inlay Kit (71333)
Template and bushing compatibility
Many inlay kits are designed around 1/4″ router templates and matching bushings. Confirm the bushing outside diameter and template thickness against your router base and existing jigs before you commit, since a mismatch is one of the most common frustrations owners describe.
Good picks for this: 71333 Router Bits Solid Brass Inlay Kit, Router Template Guide Set Solid Brass Inlay Kit
Included accessories
A complete kit includes a centering pin, collar, retainer nut and universal bushing. These parts let you set up without buying separate pieces. Compare what each listing includes, and note which items you already own.
Good picks for this: POWERTEC Router Brass Inlay Kit (71333), 71333 Router Bits Solid Brass Inlay Kit
Shape and pattern variety
If you want bowtie, butterfly or other decorative shapes rather than simple strips, look for kits that include the templates and frame for those forms. A single-style kit may be more precise for that style, while a multi-shape kit offers flexibility.
Good picks for this: Rockler 3-in-1 Bow Tie Inlay Kit, 8 in 1 Router Templates Bowtie and Butterfly Jig Kit
Solid brass versus other materials
Solid brass bushings are a common choice because they hold up better to repeated contact with router bits than thinner or plastic alternatives. Brass also resists wear over time. Check that the listing specifies solid brass before buying.
Good picks for this: Whiteside 9500 Solid Brass Inlay Kit, Router Template Guide Set Solid Brass Inlay Kit
Router speed and power
Inlay bits run at high speeds, and not every router is rated for them. Check your router’s maximum RPM and the bit manufacturer’s recommended speed range. Running a bit faster than its rating can cause heat damage or breakage. For general safety guidance on power tools, see the Wood Router Power Tool Guide: Choose, Set Up and Use One Safely (2026).
Good picks for this: 71333 Router Bits Solid Brass Inlay Kit, POWERTEC Router Brass Inlay Kit (71333)
Care and storage
Keep carbide bits clean and dry, and store bushings in a case to avoid nicks that can affect fit. Clean resin and pitch off bits after use. Protecting these parts keeps alignment consistent from one project to the next.
Good picks for this: Whiteside 9500 Solid Brass Inlay Kit, Rockler 3-in-1 Bow Tie Inlay Kit
FAQ
What is a wood inlay router kit?
A wood inlay router kit typically includes a straight or spiral bit, guide bushings, a centering pin and collar, and sometimes templates or a frame. Together these parts let you rout a recess in one piece of wood and cut a matching insert to fill it.
Do I need a router table for inlay work?
Not always. Most inlay work is done with a handheld router and a template guide. A router table can help with larger or repeated cuts, but it is not required for basic inlay projects.
What bushing size is standard for inlay kits?
Many kits in this list are designed for 1/4″ router templates. Check the bushing and template specifications in each listing, since bushing outside diameter must match your template and router base.
How do I choose between a bowtie kit and a general inlay kit?
A bowtie kit is built around specific decorative shapes and often includes a frame. A general kit offers more flexibility for strips, banding and custom shapes. Choose based on the patterns you plan to make most often.
Can I use these kits on hardwoods?
Yes, but use slower feed rates and multiple shallow passes on dense hardwoods. Carbide bits handle hardwoods well, though the router’s speed rating and your feed technique still matter.
Is safety gear needed when routing inlays?
Yes. Wear eye and hearing protection, secure your workpiece with clamps, and keep hands clear of the bit. For guidance on safe use of power tools, consult the manufacturer’s manual or a qualified professional.
Conclusion
For a complete starting point, the POWERTEC kit is a sensible first choice. Woodworkers who prefer a well-known brand and standard brass templates may favor the Whiteside 9500. If you run a compatible high-speed router, the 71333 kit adds useful hardware. The budget-oriented brass set suits occasional projects, while the Rockler bowtie kit and the 8-in-1 jig kit serve makers focused on decorative shapes. Match the kit to the shapes you cut most often and to your router’s specifications, and confirm bushing fit before you buy.
Sources
- Consumer safety guidance on power tool use and protective equipment (cpsc.gov)
- Workplace safety standards for portable power tools and guarding (osha.gov)
- University extension guidance on wood finishing and routing techniques (extension.org)
Related reading
- Wood Inlays with Router: 6 Best Kits and Templates for 2026
- Wood by Wright Router Plane Kit: Setup, Use and Tips for Beginners
- Top 7 CNC Router Wood Signs Picks: Bits and Kits for Sign Making
- Top 5 Routers for Wood Signs Picks: Kits, Templates and Jigs Compared
About Claire Whitaker
Claire Whitaker is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our woodworking guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.
