How to Use Jigsaw [ Simple & Easy method ]

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Do you have an impending DIY project involving the use of a jigsaw? Are you unsure how to use jigsaw? Well, this step-by-step guideline comes in handy to help you learn how to use this woodworking power machinery.

In this tutorial, you will learn how to cut curves in various materials such as metal, laminate, plastics, wood as well as plywood.

Whether you need to do a simple DIY woodwork project or remodel your bathroom or kitchen, there is a probability that you’ll have to create curves. Luckily, the jigsaw is perfectly suited for that.

How to Use Jigsaw

Additionally, a jigsaw is highly versatile power machinery that you must-have for your day-to-day woodwork activities, whether you are a novice or a professional woodworker. This guide covers basics on how to use a jigsaw for beginners and experts and also equips you with step-wise procedures on how to use a jigsaw to cut curves.

Before that, let’s look at the essential safety measures you need to consider as you use saws & also nowadays “handymanguide” serving well for the readers on the web.

So, let’s get started.

7 Quick Steps of How to Use Jigsaw Easily

Materials you will need

  1. Quality Jigsaw
  2. Safety goggles and mask
  3. Workbench
  4. Blades
  5. Clamps
  6. Correct jigsaw blade
  7. Wood
  8. Tape measure
  9. Pencil

Steps You will Follow While Using a Jigsaw

Step 1: Select and Fit the right blade

Select the most appropriate blade, depending on the material to be cut. Ensure you know how to use jigsaw blade alignment features and then fit them into your jigsaw. Unplug your jigsaw or remove the battery before fitting the blade. Then, ease the blade clamp and position the blade accordingly. Tighten the blade and confirm that it is not movable in the jigsaw clamp.

Step 2: Mark your wood piece

You should take measurements as well as mark your workpiece for easy identification of your cut lines. For instance, if you want to make a hole, you have to measure and mark the item itself. Ensure your cut line is as accurate as possible to guarantee you a perfect cut with a jigsaw.

After that, ensure you secure your workpiece in your work area. You can use several clamps to tighten the material and avoid movement while cutting with a jigsaw. Thus, you can use both hands to operate the jigsaw and navigate it through your cut lines correctly.

Step 3: Insert your jigsaw into the power socket or fit the battery

At this point, you need to switch on your electric jigsaw. The majority of the jigsaws need to be plugged into electrical sockets, whereas others use battery energy to function. You must ensure your jigsaw is unplugged when it is not being used.

If your jigsaw is electric, ensure you position your workbench near to a power source to ensure the jigsaw power cord stretches freely onto your workbench. Then locate the power switch on your jigsaw near the jigsaw handle and set it on. But interns of cordless jigsaw no tension, just switch it on.

Step 4: Setting your jigsaw’s speed and orbital rate

In case your jigsaw contains both speed and orbital settings, adjust them appropriately. Also, as you set your jigsaw, bear in mind that the greater the orbital rotation and speed rate, the fast and smoother your jigsaw cut would appear and vice versa.

Therefore, adjust your jigsaw settings as per your design of the cut line and requirements. For hard materials such as metal, adjust your jigsaw speed and orbital rate to low. For wood, you can set a higher speed and orbital rate.

Step 5: Direct your jigsaw through the marked wood piece for cutting

Do you recall the measurements and marks you made on your workpiece material earlier? Well, in this step, you will need them. Begin at the end of the wood piece material and progress following the cut lines you marked.

Avoid putting excessive pressure onto your jigsaw during the cutting process you as this could lead to the breakage of the blade. Additionally, ensure you stay safe by keeping your fingers far from the jigsaw blade.

Step 6: Finalize your cut

Immediately you finish the cuts you needed, you should eliminate any remaining parts which aren’t in line with what your project requirements. You may choose to do so using your jigsaw blade, or use sanding items. Doing so will help you in smoothing the rough endings of your wood piece.

Step 7: Put your jigsaw into storage and clean your workbench

As soon as you have finished your project, detach your finger from your jigsaw´s power switch and allow the blade to become completely stationary. Further, unplug it from the electric socket or disconnect the battery as per the model of your jigsaw.

Then ensure you store your jigsaw appropriately and far from the reach of children and other unauthorized people.  Finally, clean up your work area by gathering particles, dust, and remains that were spread all over during the cutting process.

Basic Safety Measures

  • Be familiarized with the saw’s user manual and understand your saw’s specifications and component installation guidelines.
  • Before using any saw, ensure you wear necessary protective gear such as goggles to prevent dust, masks to prevent you from inhaling particles, among other equipment.
  • Regularly monitor your saw’s blade and service it accordingly.
  • Ensure the blade of your saw is lubricated properly lubricated to give a smooth cut.
  • Avoid direct contact with your power tools such as electric saws with water.
  • Ensure you fit the right blade to your saw.
  • Connect a bag to your saw to help collect particles and dust to keep your workshop clear as well as minimize the chances of dirt getting into your eyes.

Final Verdict

Power tools, especially jigsaws, are perfect tools suited to enable you to make various types of cuts like curves or straight lines on different materials such as metals, wood, laminate, and plywood. Additionally, jigsaws usually are safer to use as compared with other types of saws. In this article on “How to Use Jigsaw”, Despite their safety, you must observe safety measures accordingly.

Markedly, to achieve excellent outcomes, you need to utilize the right blades, and jigsaw settings like speed and orbital rate. Don’t forget that jigsaws are meant for a less detailed purpose and aren’t suitable for heavy-duty work. Therefore, to ensure your safety and maintain your jigsaw, use your jigsaw only for materials with a thickness of 1 inch and below.

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