How to use a jigsaw tool

D-handle

Top or d-handles make up the majority of jigsaws available we have found for DIY and building use. As the name suggests, the handle is located above the motor housing in the shape of a D.

A D handle provides a more comfortable grip for long work times. Having the handle above the blade also makes cutting thicker materials easier, but restricts visibility with the cutting blade.

Barrel grip

This type of jigsaw has its handle integrated with the motor housing. This gives users finer control for following intricate cuts and the ability to use the saw upside down or on angles more easily.

Most barrel grips even allow for two-handed operation. Keep in mind that having the handle near the motor makes it heat up after a while.

Wood and PVC

If you’re using a jigsaw to cut wood, use standard high carbon steel(HCS) blades for cutting most wood and PVC.

While these may dull quicker, they’re relatively inexpensive and are surprisingly flexible. High carbon steel blades also do well at scroll cutting.

Thick and thin metal

If you’re using a jigsaw to cut metal, high-speed steel(HSS) blades are more robust and excel at cutting non-ferrous metals and acrylics.

These blades have tougher edges and dull at a much slower rate, but the added rigidity also makes them more susceptible to blade breaks.

Laminate

You can use Bi-metal blades, if you’re using a jigsaw to cut laminate flooring. Because they combine the qualities of HCS and HSS, making them more flexible and durable.

They dull slowly and are less likely to break, though the added survivability also makes these an expensive option. 

Ceramic tile

Use special toothless tungsten carbide blades or a diamond blade for cutting ceramic, porcelain, and even glass.

These are specially constructed blades meant to take on extremely hard materials and greatly reduce if not completely eliminate the risk of shattering workpieces.

Vinyl

Use finer-toothed HSC or carbide blades. Since vinyl is a brittle plastic polymer, blades designed for rough cutting or those with fewer teeth can end up shattering it.  

How to cut with a jigsaw?

• Wear a mask and goggles to protect yourself from cutting dust.
• Read the user manual.
• Be aware of where the power cord is at all times.
• Check the condition of the blades. Old and dull blades may snap and cause injury.
• Do not adjust or change the blade while the jigsaw is still plugged in.
• Do not put any of your appendages near the cutting action while it’s still on.

Bevel cuts

The wonderful thing about a jigsaw is that you can easily take advantage of the adjustable shoe angle.

This tilts the whole jigsaw assembly once you lay the shoe flat on what you are cutting, allowing you to make various bevel cuts – either straight or curved.

Straight cuts

A jigsaw on its own isn’t known for being great in cutting long and straight lines. This is how to use a jigsaw to cut a straight line however: Use a guide like a straight edge or a piece of wood.

The sides should be smooth as possible and free from any bumps or warping. Use clamps to hold the guide tight so it doesn’t move around.  Otherwise, a circular saw do better or a table saw.

Curves

Here’s how to use a jigsaw to cut curves:

Fully mark the cutting line and cut your curves outside the line to avoid any mistakes. Sand off any excess material until you have your desired curve cut finished. You may have to make relief cuts [2] to get your jigsaw through tight curves and prevent the blade from stopping.

Circles and holes

If you’ve read our previous guides, you’d know that using a jigsaw is the best way to cut circles in any material. So if you dont know how to use a jigsaw to cut a circle yet, make sure to completely mark the edges of your desired circle beforehand. Use a screw, a length of string, and a pencil to draw perfect circles on the surface of your workpiece.

Wood patterns and shapes

When it comes to intricate patterns and detailed shapes, it’s best to use a barrel grip.

Here’s how to do it if you’re using a jigsaw to cut shapes: Cut at a slow and steady pace, making sure that you closely follow the cutting line as much as you can. Sand off any excess material until the desired shape is achieved.

Squares

Here’s how to use jigsaw to cut a square: After fully marking out the square, start by drilling pilot holes at the four corners of the square. The holes should be large enough to fit the jigsaw blade.

Start cutting and refine as necessary until you have a first class square hole. Otherwise, here’s how you can cut square holes.

Cutouts from the middle

Using a jigsaw for plunge cutting is possible. Instead of drilling out many pilot holes is not necessary when cutting from the middle with a jigsaw.

Some jigsaws with a flat front end of the shoe allow you to angle the jigsaw to make plunge cuts into material that start far from the edge.

Here’s how to use a jigsaw to cut in the middle of wood otherwise, first you need to drill a small pilot hole to insert the blade before you start.

• Keep the shoe flat against the material at all times.
• Make sure that the blade is square with the shoe.
• Always use the right blade for the job.
• Always use guides for long, straight cuts.
• Adjust the speed of your jigsaw accordingly. Lower your speed when transitioning into curves.
• Don’t push too hard on the jigsaw as you move it forward. The movement should feel natural and with little resistance. Let the tool do the work.