How to cut a perfect circle with a jigsaw?
Question:I need to cut some nice semicircles about 3 feet in diameter from MDF. I don't have access to a bandsaw but do have use of a nice jigsaw. What's the best way to avoid wavery curves?
Answers:
Place a nail or screw in the center. Tie of your jigsaw with a piece of strong string in two places, to keep it steady. Saw away.
Better yet, get your hands on a Rotozip or a Dremel with a cutting bit.
don't force the cut, just apply light pressure in the forward direction, and be very patient. Then use sand paper on the edge.
use a good jig saw with nice sharp blade slow &easy !
cut on the outside of your line
JohnQ gave you the right answer.
JohnQ comes thru. Best suggestion by far and it works great - I have used this method many times.!
I attached a piece of small-diameter wire to the side of the jigsaw, then attached the other end of the wire to a small nail driven into the wood. Have the wire make a loop around the nail as opposed to tightening the wire under the nail head. Keep the jigsaw aimed 'straight'. String will also work, but it may stretch considering the length needed. I'd stick with wire such as picture or baling.
The string should be attached to a nail head that is in the center of the circle, so take a pencil and hold it tight at the end of the string and draw the circle. Keep it taught and it will make a perfect circle for the cut. Add the string to the saw and keep taught while going around the circle. it should make a perfect cut.
rotozip's are awesome too.
You could buy a regular jigsaw jig for cutting perfect circles..cost?? about 8 dollars...or if you want a homemade one..here you go..pictures and all included
More Related Questions & Answers...