Cutting circles in wood can be a real challenge. But with the right tool in hand and a solid technique, it’s totally achievable! Ever come across those saws that seem to just glide through and make perfect circles? Yep, they exist.
If you’re gearing up for a woodworking project and circles are on the menu, stick around. I’ve got some top-notch saw recommendations coming your way.
5 Saw Options for Cutting Circles in Wood
#1: Jigsaw
A jigsaw is one of the best and go-to options to cut a circle in wood. Pro and beginner woodworkers vouch for it as the ideal tool for making intricate curves and tight cuts.
You can take several approaches when you use the jigsaw to make holes or circles. If you want quick cuts without needing a lot of precision, a reliable jigsaw is your best bet. You can also choose to produce quality finished cuts!
#2: Hole Saw
Another simple option for cutting circles in wood is to use a hole saw. All you need to do is lock your hole saw into the chuck of your drill or drill press and begin cutting.
Circles with diameters ranging from 34 to 7 inches can be cut with hole saws. A 6″ hole saw is recommended for making cornhole boards.
#3: Band Saw
Just like you’d piece together a jigsaw puzzle, think of band saws as your best friend for crafting curves. Why? Because of their slender, delicate blades. Sure, you can try cutting a circle freehand with a bandsaw, but trust me, using a jig makes it so much smoother.
And guess what? You can whip up a handy circle-cutting jig from leftover wood in no time! The coolest part? You can tweak the diameter with an adjustable pin.
Before you begin your cut, double-check if your bandsaw settings are correct. Your cut is dependent on precise measurements. If factors such as guide blocks, blade tension, or bearings are inaccurate, you will not get a precise circle.
#4: Table Saw
If you want a tool that’s a bit advanced, you can use a table saw. While a table saw is not particularly designed to cut circles, it can still produce and cut very precise circles with the help of another jig.
You can roll the wood against the blade with this jig instead of moving your saw. At first, make long passes while you cut off the corner squares.
However, the corner cuts will then become increasingly small. Finally, finish by slowly spinning the wood on the blade’s edge until you have a circle.
Using a table saw for cutting precise circles can be a practical and efficient solution for woodworking projects that require consistent and accurate circular shapes.
#5: Circular Saw
You may be surprised, but a circular saw can also be utilized for creating circles or holes on wood.
It is originally devised to cut straight lines in dimensional plywood, lumber, concrete, and many other materials. It has an encased circular blade and a broad base fitting flat against the material you will be cutting. It can be adjusted to different depths of the cut on most models.
For this particular task, make sure to use a blade that’s specifically for wood and check if they match the circular saw blade’s diameter.
Here’s an inside scoop: to get those rough cuts just right, you’re going to want to buddy up with a jigsaw. And don’t forget your trusty compass and pencil. With them in hand, marking your ideal size will be a breeze.
FAQ
What angle do you cut wood to make a circle?
A whole circle contains 360 degrees [1]. So, the corner angles must add up to 360 degrees to create a closed construction from straight pieces.
How do you cut a perfect circle in wood with a jigsaw?
To cut a perfect circle with a jigsaw, set it up so the blade is inside the starter hole and the shoe plate is flush with the board. Start the saw and ensure the blade is not touching the board. Cut an arc extending inside the scribed circle’s waste side. Continue cutting until you’ve cut the circle.
Conclusion
Ever thought about crafting perfect circles in wood? Well, with the right saw, it’s a breeze. If you’ve got one of these handy tools, you’re all set to dive into your project. If not, take a moment to think about which one suits your needs best. Either way, happy crafting!
Robert Johnson is a passionate furniture maker & carpenter, sought after for his knowledge on the craft.
You’ve probably seen his down-to-earth wisdom in USA Today, Bobvila, Family Handyman, and The Spruce, where he has shared commentary and guidance on various woodworking topics.
Robert is the brain behind Sawinery, where he aims to share tips, tricks, and a passion for all things carpentry.
