How to Use a Jigsaw

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Woodie's DIY will show you how to use a jigsaw. The most important thing to remember when using a jigsaw is the blade you choose, as this determines the finish and the type of cut.

How to do it

Always make sure your jigsaw is unplugged when changing the blade.

Step 1

CHANGING BLADES

Blades come in two different types of fittings, U SHANK and T SHANK.

The U Shank is fitted to the jigsaw with an allen key and tightened and loosened accordingly.

The T Shank is a quick release blade which makes it easy for fitting.

For your comfort and safety always wear your dust mask and goggles when using any jigsaw.

When cutting with the jigsaw remember to be mindful of the cable at all times. You can wrap the cable around your arm to stop it lying loosely around the cutting surface.

When choosing a blade, the bigger the tooth the rougher the cut. The finer the tooth the cleaner the cut and the more accurate you can be.

STEP 2

CUTTING TIMBER

This is a rough tooth wood blade or rip blade. This is ideal for cutting through rough timber. Work Slowly and let the blade do the work.

Step 3

This is a fine tooth wood blade. This is ideal for cutting through smooth wood with a neat finish.

Step 4

This is a thinner fine tooth wood blade. By using this on a smooth piece of timber you can make more curved cuts without burning the timber or braking the blade.

Step 5

The most basic type of electric jigsaw will have a reciprocating blade that cuts on the up stroke. But there are also laminate blades available that cut on the down stroke. These are used on laminate timber so that they don’t chip the surface.

Step 6

Some models include a straight edge guide to ensure a straight edge every time you cut. This is particularly useful when you require a parallel, for example laminate flooring.

Step 7

METAL

This is a metal blade. This is specific for cutting through metal with ease.

Step 8

By adjusting the soleplate you can make a bevelled or angled cut in any material.

Step 9

This is particularly useful for mitre joints.

Step 10

Most models come with a dust extraction facility that simply attaches to your vacuum cleaner.

Step 11

Some models have a variable speed dial that allows you to adjust the speed of your cut.

Step 12

You may also find variable settings for the pendulum action, this means that the blade not only goes up and down but enters into the wood at an angle, similar to the action of a hand saw.

Step 13

Your saw speed will depend on the type of material you are cutting. Some materials such as wood benefit from a fast saw speed which reduces vibration, whereas other materials, such as metal, may get too hot and require a slower speed which also allows more control.

Step 14

Some systems control the variable speed according to the application selected. You simply set the jigsaw to the type of material you are cutting and the kind of cut you want and it will select the correct speed and the level of pendulum action for the job.