When you are using your jigsaw to cut curves, it is important that you are using the right blade. There are also certain materials that will respond better to curved cuts. The tips in this article will help to ensure that you are able to cut curves precisely with a smooth edge.
It is hard for mistakes to be corrected after they have been made so you are better off taking the time to get it right the first time. The following tips will help you to make sure that your work always has a clean finish.
Related: Best Jigsaw for DIY & Woodworking
Thickness Of The Material
A jigsaw is capable of cutting through material with a thickness of 2×4, but this may not always give you the best results. It can also make the cutting of the material quite time-consuming. If you are cutting with wood, then plywood and softwood would be the best choice. You should also be able to cut tiles and thin sheets of metal.
Types Of Blade
T-shank blades will often be the best choice. This blade is less likely to fall off when it is used at high speeds. They can also be switched fairly easily.
You will also want to use a blade where the teeth are pointing down. This is known as a downstroke blade. This type of blade will leave a smooth edge on the top of the material you are working with. This means that the finished product will look better.
Another thing to bear in mind when choosing a blade is the number of teeth per inches. The advantage of a low TPI is that the cutting process is a lot faster. However, when cutting curves it is better to opt for a higher TPI because this will produce a smoother finish.
Cut On The Edge Of A Workbench
The edge of the workbench is the best location for the cutting material to be located. This is a better choice than supporting the material on its own edges because it makes it easier to move both the material and the jigsaw when needed. If you can move the jigsaw as well as the material, then this will give you a more accurate cut.
Get The Wood In The Right Position
You should check that the material is in the right position before the jigsaw is turned on. This means that you will be able to begin cutting immediately, making it easier for the material to remain in the correct position. The vibration of the jigsaw can move the material if you are not careful and so this is something to be mindful of.
Think About Blade Length
It is also important to consider the length of the blade. You need to make sure that it is long enough to do the job properly. A good rule of thumb is to make sure that the blade is at least one inch longer than the thickness of the material that you are cutting.
Apply Water When Cutting Tiles
When cutting tiles it is a good idea to apply water to the tiles on a regular basis. This keeps the tile cool which means it is less likely for friction to build between the tile and the blade. If friction does occur, then the tiles are more likely to become chipped. Water can also keep the tile lubricated and this will put less pressure on the blade.
Take Your Time
Cutting a curve with a jigsaw is something that needs to be done with care. This is why it is important to take your time so that unnecessary mistakes are not made. Particular attention should be paid when you are going around a corner, and you may need to slow down even more at this point. If you try to cut the material too fast, then this can cause the saw to vibrate which will affect the accuracy of the cut.
