If you’ve ever finished a “straight” jigsaw cut that looked more like a lazy river, you’re not alone. The jigsaw is one of the most misunderstood tools in the shop, and it loves to remind us when we’re doing something wrong.
Here are some common mistakes to avoid so your cuts stay clean, your blades stay straight, and your pride stays intact.
1. Using the Wrong Blade for the Job
All blades are not created equal. Check the TPI (teeth per inch). Fewer teeth = faster, rougher cuts. More teeth = smoother, slower cuts. And make sure the blade matches your material. A metal-cutting blade on plywood is just asking for a meltdown. Literally. Oh and a scroll blade is great for curves.
2. Forcing the Saw Through the Cut
Let the blade do the work. Pushing too hard makes it flex, overheat, and wander off course.
3. Not Supporting the Workpiece Properly
If your material is flopping around like a loose diving board, your blade will bend and your cut will drift. Support it on both sides so it can’t vibrate or pinch the blade.
4. Ignoring the Orbital Setting
Too much orbital on plywood = nasty tear-out. Too little on thick lumber = painfully slow progress. Adjust it like Goldilocks. Just right for what you’re cutting. It's great for faster rough cuts but I find myself rarely using this setting.
5. Cutting Too Fast on Curves
Slow down and let the blade follow the line. If you rush, it’ll bind and vibrate rather harshly. You wouldn’t take a sharp corner at 60 mph in a pickup truck… same principle.
6. Not Marking or Guiding the Cut Line Clearly
A faint pencil line is easy to lose. Trace it bold and clamp a guide if it’s a long straight cut. And when cutting in the middle of a workpiece, drill a hole big enough for the blade to fit through.
Take your time, use the right blade, and let that jigsaw sing. Because when used right, it’s one of the most satisfying tools in the shop.
Happy Building.
- Thomas Gojkovich
Thomas Custom Woodworks