1/4" is just right. Is "Hardboard" or Masonite the same as MDF? Looking for something harder possibly.
I have used Hardboard for templates and I found that it works if the pieces to be routed are fairly light weight, but if the piece is bigger and heavier meaning that you may exert more pressure on it with the bearing, then it does dent and potentially ruin the job. Think 40" x 14" x 1.5 Padauk! DAMHIKT:BangHead: I use 0.5" MDF or clear lexan/acrylic sheet.