
- Flooring. The first practical use for a jigsaw is for flooring. ...
- Roofing. Another practical application for the jigsaw is for roofing. Just like with flooring, roofing requires boards to be ripped to certain widths and cut straight to certain lengths, all ...
- Wall Framing. Yes, just like with flooring and roofing, when making frames for walls, as well as the walls themselves, boards need to be ripped and cut to certain lengths ...
- Making Boxes, Planters, Picture Frames, and More. Jigsaws are indeed very versatile, as they can be used to make straight, miter, and bevel cuts, all of which come in handy ...
- Carpet Laying. Yet another jigsaw application is carpet laying. Now, a jigsaw would usually not be the first choice for cutting carpet, but it does come in handy in a ...
- Plumbing and Electrical Work. Seeing as jigsaws can be used to cut plastic, plexiglass, PVC, and more, it is also a tool that can be used for plumbing and electrical ...
- Fence, Patio, and Deck Making. Whether you are making a gate, a fence, a new patio, or a new deck, a jigsaw can be used to cut all of those ...
- General Crafts and Projects. If you are a home hobbyist, a DIY person, or you just like making crafts, especially out of wood, a jigsaw can be used for a ...
- Crown Molding. Although not the first tool of choice to cut crown molding for homes, a jigsaw (with a bevel function) can be used to cut crown molding.
What is the difference between a jig saw and a sabre saw?
- The jigsaw was first designed in 1946, when an engineer replaced a sewing machine needle with a blade
- Jigsaws are used for accuracy, a sabre saw is more known for its power and brute cutting ability
- Common features shared between the two include a motor, blade and shoe used as leverage against the material
What is the best jig saw?
- Straight-reciprocating: Older models and newer low-end models are typically straight-reciprocating jigsaws. ...
- Orbital-reciprocating: These jigsaws have a slightly forward motion to their blade stroke. ...
- Top handle: Traditional jigsaws have a tall, large handle shaped like the letter D with a basic finger trigger inside the hand loop to operate the saw. ...
How to operate a jig saw?
Here are some other tips in mind when learning how to use a jigsaw:
- Take your time and remember to stay outside of your cut line. ...
- Use relief cuts to remove waste and prevent the blade from binding when a curve is too tight to make with a single cut.
- Raise the workpiece by placing it on rails thick enough to allow the jigsaw blade to make its full stroke without hitting the workbench.
What is the best Jigsaw?
Top 5 Jigsaws
- Best Cordless: DEWALT 20-Volt Max XR Jigsaw
- Best Control: BLACK+DECKER 5.0-Amp Jigsaw
- Best Battery Life: Milwaukee D-Handle Jigsaw
- Best Design: BLACK+DECKER 20-Volt MAX Jigsaw
- Best Barrel-Grip: Bosch Variable-Speed Jigsaw

What can I use a jig saw for?
Jigsaws are best used for cutting shapes and curves in wood with its narrow blade, which is attached to the tool's body by a spring-loaded clamp at the front. The blade's sharp teeth are measured in TPI, or teeth per inch. A higher TPI gives a smoother cut that requires less sanding.
What can you not do with a jigsaw?
Don't force the blade or it might snap, causing the saw to lunge out of control. Remember that jigsaws cut on the up stroke. Release the trigger when the cut is complete to stop the blade. Wait for the blade to stop spinning completely before moving it out of the workpiece.
Is it worth buying a jigsaw?
Jigsaws can cut cut wood of varying thickness and density, and when fitted with the correct blade, they can also cut steel, fiberglass, and drywall. This adds to the tool's versatility and makes it more valuable in your workshop. Changing blades is easy.
What is the main disadvantage of using a jig saw?
Disadvantages of the jig saw: The main disadvantage of the jigsaw is that it is not a power tool that makes very fast cuts. Even if we put a blade designed for this purpose. The result is that when we have to make a lot of cuts and/or very long cuts, we end up noticing the fatigue in our arms.
Can you cut straight lines with a jigsaw?
The jigsaw can be used to make both straight and curved cuts in a wide variety of materials, including wood, particleboard, plywood, plastic, metal, even ceramic tile. It's also safe and easy to use, which is why it's often the very first power saw a new DIYer buys.
Can I cut 2x4 with a jigsaw?
The secret to doing straight cuts in 2x4 lumber is to guide the jigsaw steadily, in one go. As long as the pace is slow and consistent, you will be fine by allowing the blade to do the work of cutting for you – keep the focus on following the cutting line as you control the speed and pace of the cut.
What is the best jigsaw for a beginner?
Best Jigsaws for Beginners, Reviews & Detailed Buying GuideDewalt DCS331B JigSaw (Best Battery Powered Jigsaw)BLACK+DECKER BDEJS300C Jig Saw (Best Affordable Jigsaw)Bosch Professional GST 18 V-Li Jigsaw (Best Compact Jigsaw)BLACK+DECKER BDEJS600C Jig Saw (Best Selling Jigsaw)
How much does a good jigsaw cost?
On average, a quality jigsaw will cost around $100.
Do I need a circular saw if I have a jigsaw?
Although a jigsaw can be used for most of the tasks that a circular saw can perform, including straight cuts and cuts on a tilt, the jigsaw uses that really take advantage of the tool's qualities are jobs such as kitchen fitting and joinery, with their frequent need for complex cuts.
Is jigsaw safer than circular saw?
Jigsaws are considered safer than circular saws – while you can still injure yourself with a jigsaw, there is less scope for causing serious damage since the blade is smaller. They create less dust than circular saws, and the blades are also less expensive than the blades for circular saws.
Do I need a router or jigsaw?
Routers Are Better for Curves The next difference between jigsaws and routers is that while jigsaws are ideal for straight cuts, and while they can be used for curves, due to the rounded shape of router bits, it is much easier to cut curves with them. If you need to cut curves, a router is often the better way to go.
What is the difference between a jigsaw and an orbital jigsaw?
Orbital Action A standard action jigsaw moves the jigsaw blade solely in an up-and-down motion, while in an orbital-action jigsaw the blade moves slightly forward and into the workpiece on the upswing, then slightly backward on the downstroke as the blade resets for the next cutting stroke.
Which part of the jigsaw should never be touched when it is used?
To replace blades, use suitable tools (if applicable). If the jigsaw does not require tools, make sure to check the blade's lock and unlocked position. Do not touch the blades teeth. This will avoid any injury to one's finger(s).
Why is my jigsaw bouncing?
Worn, bent or poor quality blades can cause the jigsaw to vibrate and jump all over the place, making it hard to handle and giving you a poor cut. Replace the blade with a good quality blade by removing the screw securing the blade in the jigsaw.
Should you wear gloves when using a jigsaw?
Contrary to what some people may believe, gloves aren't necessary when operating a jigsaw. In fact, they can actually increase the risk of injury, as the material may catch in the reciprocating saw, pulling your hand into the blade.
How do you cut corners with a jigsaw?
1:262:49How to Make Curved Cuts with a Jigsaw - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou're going to want to start your jigsaw. Before it touches the. Way. Once you're done cutting yourMoreYou're going to want to start your jigsaw. Before it touches the. Way. Once you're done cutting your edges.
What is the third type of cut on a jigsaw?
The third type of cut that can be made with a jigsaw is a bevel cut. Bevel cuts involve tilting the blade left or right on the vertical plane, so instead of the blade being perfectly vertical, it leans to one side or the other.
What can a jigsaw do?
Jigsaws are indeed very versatile, as they can be used to make straight, miter, and bevel cuts, all of which come in handy when making various square things like boxes, planters, picture frames, window frames, and door frames.
Why is a jigsaw so easy to use?
Because the blade is quite thin and flexible, it is easy to manipulate the direction and maneuver it in order to cut curves . Moreover, because jigsaws are handheld, and fairly small and portable, it makes it just that much easier to make smooth, curved cuts.
What is the first use for a jigsaw?
The first practical use for a jigsaw is for flooring. Flooring requires many boards to be ripped to certain widths and cut straight to certain lengths, all of which can be easily done with a jigsaw.
What is flush cutting?
Flush Cuts. You may also use a jigsaw to make flush cuts, which is used to cut off pieces of wood or other materials from otherwise finished projects. In order to make flush cuts with a jigsaw, due to the jigsaw’s large base, you will need to get a special flush cutting jigsaw blade.
What type of cut can a jigsaw make?
The first type of cut that a jigsaw can make is a classic straight cut. One thing to keep in mind is that to make straight cuts with jigsaws, you do want to use some sort of fence, as keeping a jigsaw moving in a perfectly straight line can be hard.
What material can be cut with a jigsaw?
Ceramic Tile. Another material that can be cut with a jigsaw is ceramic tile. You do need a special blade here, a toothless carbide grit blade to be precise, and you will want to spray the surface being cut with water on a continuous basis to stop the tile and the blade from overheating.
What is a jigsaw used for?
The most common use for a jigsaw is cutting wood. This can range from thick wood or plywood, all the way through to construction timbers. You can even find the correct blades to use on construction timbers that contain nails to make cuts with a jigsaw. A jigsaw is ideal for scrollwork, for cutting stencils, and adding decorative patterns to a piece of furniture. For this type of task, however, you’d be advised to be very familiar with a jigsaw otherwise you risk ruining the wood.
Can you use a concrete blade on a jigsaw?
Concrete blades can be used with a jigsaw on porous concrete as well as on fiber cement. Realistically, you shouldn’t use it on all concrete and cement jobs but the right tool and blade combination can be used to create a hole or opening for a pipe.
Can you use a jigsaw to cut metal?
There will also be times you’ll need to cut curves in metal for it to fit on a wall. A jigsaw can be used on pipework although you shouldn’t try to use a jigsaw to cut straight lines. The tool is not designed for this and won’t accomplish the task properly.
A jigsaw is one of the most useful tools in your shop. It can take any curve you throw at it while also having the ability to rip a perfectly straight line. These six woodworking projects are perfect for practicing your jigsaw skills while making something cool
A jigsaw is one of the most useful tools in your shop. It can take any curve you throw at it while also having the ability to rip a perfectly straight line. These six woodworking projects are perfect for practicing your jigsaw skills while making something cool.
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How to make ornamental pieces for a tree?
Using your jigsaw tool, you can create ornamental pieces for your loved one and their holiday trees. Take a small light piece of wood, draw your design onto it, then cut it out. Sand the edges down and drill a small hole into the top of the piece and string onto a leather cord or piece of holiday ribbon.
What can I cut out for a wall?
Once you’ve decided on what you want, cut it out, sand down the side and paint or decorate your design. You can also cut out ornamental wall décors like arrows, feathers, birds, or other nature based designs which will go with most any home style.
How to hang a picture frame on a nail?
On the back of the frame, including a hook that will allow the frame to easily be hung on a nail, or drill a hole in the top of the frame and string ribbon through the top for another easy to hang option.
What to do with a cheese board?
Cutting Board. Cutting boards and cheese boards make great gifts. Find a piece of wood that is ok for food use, and using a pencil draw the outline on the wood. Be sure to include a handle shaped at the end. Once you cut and sand your piece down, you can treat it with a wood oil that will help to retain the luster and shape – remember ...
How to make a heart shape for a picture?
Using a piece of thin wood, draw a heart shape. Inside of that heart, draw a 4×6 square using a straight edge. Take your jigsaw and cut out the inside of the frame where the photo will be placed and seen.
How to cut sheet metal without shredding?
Cut sheet metal without shredding it by clamping the workpiece tightly between two thin sheets of plywood. Begin by drilling saw blade starter holes inside all pattern circles. Cutting through a plywood sandwich is slow-going. For the smoothest cuts, select metal-cutting blades that have 21 to 24 teeth per inch.
How to cut laminate countertop with no chip?
Make precise, no-chip cuts in laminate by drilling a 1/2-in. starter hole in the countertop for the blade. Use a special laminate blade that cuts only on the downstroke, and follow the cutting line drawn on masking tape. Avoid marring the countertop by taping the bottom of the saw shoe.
What blade to use for cutting laminate countertop?
If you’re not comfortable making countertop cuts with a circular saw, use a jigsaw for the whole job. Cutting through a countertop with a jigsaw is slow-going. Choose a special down-cutting laminate blade. Its 5/16-in. wide blade, with eight teeth per inch, minimizes laminate chip-out.
How thick should a jigsaw be?
When cutting wood, follow these guidelines: Jigsaws work best for cutting softwood that’s no more than 1-1/2 in. thick and hardwood up to 3/4 in. thick. Jigsaw blades tend to bend when cutting curves in thicker boards, leaving a beveled edge rather than a square one.
How many teeth does a jigsaw blade have?
For the smoothest cuts, select metal-cutting blades that have 21 to 24 teeth per inch. Metal-cutting blade. Use blades with 21 to 24 teeth per inch to cut metal. With the proper blade, jigsaws can cut through wood with embedded nails, 1/8-in. mild steel, no-iron pipe and sheet metal up to 10 gauge thick (Photo 6).
What blade to use for jigsaw?
Most wood-cutting blades for jigsaws are designed so the teeth cut on the upstroke. For fine work demanding less chipping—in wood veneers, for example—choose a “downstroke-cutting” blade (Photo 4). An alternative is to place painter’s or masking tape on the cutting line path before drawing on the pattern line.
How to keep a cut square?
To keep the cut square, use a sharp blade and avoid forcing the saw through the cut. To “plunge cut,” that is, make an entry saw cut into the middle of your wood, tip the jigsaw so that the blade is parallel to the workpiece and the saw’s weight rests on the front lip of the shoe.
How to make bevel cuts with a jigsaw?
Creating bevel cuts with jigsaw. Bevel cuts can be made by adjusting the angle of the jigsaw shoe. If you are lucky, you will find a built-in protractor on your jigsaw to determine your preferred angle. The inclination of the blade reduces its cutting capacity; so do not forget to consider that.
How fast does a jigsaw go?
Jigsaws have a built-in bevel gearbox, the motor drives the vertical blade at high speed (up to 3000 strokes/min). The blade is installed in a groove of guide rollers, the blade vertical motion provides the feeding force, and prevents deviated movements on the sides, which ensures accurate cuts in thick materials.
How does a jigsaw work?
To make it crystal clear, the jigsaw follows an elliptical trajectory. At the upward motion, it tilts forward to increase the attack of the teeth over the entire piece of wood and accelerates the cut. At the downward motion, the blade moves backward to reduce the friction and evacuate sawdust.
What is the best tool to make straight cuts?
HOW TO'S. Jigsaw is probably the most favorite tool among carpenters and DIY professionals; it can easily make straight or beveled cuts in many materials: wood, aluminum, plastics, synthetic foam, MDF boards and plywood. Even fret works, the jigsaw is used widely in this field.
What is the motion of a jigsaw blade?
You have two types of motion in the jigsaw blade, the first one is up and down (of course), the second one is forward, and backward, which is the pendulum motion, this motion makes it possible to cut through hard materials more efficiently. To make it crystal clear, the jigsaw follows an elliptical trajectory.
What are the components of a jigsaw?
Most jigsaws have common components like t he shoe, the on/off switch, the blade, the pendulum motion switch, the guide roller etc,.
How much power does a jigsaw have?
Thanks to a wide range of blades, it makes it easy to saw various materials with sufficient precision. The power of the models ranges from 300 to 800 W.
