Trying to decide what tools to use for any given project is probably one of the most confusing processes. Especially if you are a beginning/ novice DIYer. I get it, everyone starts somewhere and I did my fair share of searching when I started out in this industry too. Luckily for you, we are starting a series where I break down each tool and how to use it to your advantage.
To kick off this series we will be talking about saw’s. If you are doing any woodworking project you will most likely need some of these items depending on the type of project. Not sure what kind to get. Let’s get to it!
Circular Saw: Portable, Typically Wireless, Best for cutting through pieces of wood. This is a must have for any home renovation projects.
Miter Saw: Angled cuts for multiple cuts of wood. Ex: Trim, Moulding, cabinetry or anything that you will want to have a seamless edge. Now when you are looking into these types of saw you might also see a Compound Miter Saw. Read the below description to see if that meets your needs more closely.
Compound Miter Saw: The main difference between this an a regular saw is this one can make bevel cuts.
A Miter cut is made across the face (W) of the board, like cutting a cake. Whereas Beveled cuts are angle cuts made through the thickness (D), like how you want to cut steak.
Jigsaw: Best for curves, angles, or other shapes.
Table Saw: Allows you to make straight cuts for ripping wood down to size. This is the safer option to using a circular saw.
Band Saw: Works like a Jigsaw but allows you to have more control.
Ripping definition: to tear or split apart or open. To saw or split (wood) with the grain. To slash or slit with or as if with a sharp blade.
Now I do want to mention that most home improvement stores like Lowe’s and Home Depot will cut down the wood for you. This is helpful if you have a smaller car that can now transport large pieces of wood. I bring this up because in terms of purchasing tools having them cut down for you could be helpful since it is free then purchasing a miter saw to cut the specific cuts.
Interested in learning more about saws? Do you want a tutorial for how to use them from me? Join our Saw Tutorial Waitlist to learn more about our next education opportunity!
Be sure to leave your questions below! I look forward to meeting you in the comments!