Cut Curves in Wood

Woodworking can be fun, especially since you cut, sand, and make wood look exactly how you want it to. Cutting wood for use in woodworking isn’t that hard, especially if you have the right tools to use. You can make simple marks and even finer patterns using expert techniques. But certain designs are a little more complicated than you’re used to.

One such design involves cutting curves in wood. But with the right technique and tools, you can master the art of doing so quickly and deliver first-class results. Here are three techniques that you can employ when cutting curves in wood:

Circular Saw Technique

The secret to cutting wood in a circular pattern is to make sure you’re using the right tool. Typically, a jigsaw is what comes to your mind when you realize you need a tool to cut curves. But the truth is, you don’t always need a jigsaw for that. Instead, you can use a circular saw. A circular saw will help you cut curves in wood.

It’s simple, quick, and easy to do so in a smooth curve. However, it is specialized for rough curves. The technique is to make sure the curve is gradual enough that the blade doesn’t bind. The thinner the material you’re cutting, the sharper the curve can be. You have to set the blade depth to ensure it barely projects through the bottom of the wood.

Sand Tight Curves

To make tight curves, you can use a random orbital sander. Line up the pieces of wood you’re using. Clamp them together and sand the curves with a belt sander or random orbital sander. The trick is to stack several identical curved parts and sand them all at once. This will ensure that all of them will match perfectly, which will help you save time.

Now, if the parts require a lot of sanding, you can use a belt sander. But if you don’t need to remove much wood, go with a random orbital sander. Ultimately, the key to success is to keep the sander moving at all times to avoid creating any flat spots and running your hand over the parts.

Pattern and Router for Irregular Curves

When it comes to irregular curves, you can use a pattern and router. How do you go about doing this? First, you have to trace and make a rough cut of your part. Then you can attach the pattern with hot melted glue. Once done, you can go ahead and move the router counterclockwise around the pattern.

You should take note of these tips for routing with a pattern bit. First, use a pattern to mark the shape. Using a jigsaw or bandsaw, remove excess material by cutting about one-fourth to one-eighth inches outside the lines. You can elevate the piece you’re working on to avoid cutting into your desk or workbench. You can use hot melted glue or scraps of wood. Now, if you’re cutting material that’s thicker than the pattern, feel free to cut as deep as you can. Finally, you can remove the pattern and use that part to complete the cut.

// Wrapped Up

Ultimately, cutting curves in wood entails a lot of work. That said, you need to take steps to ensure your personal safety. Familiarize yourself with the tools you need to use. One other thing you can do is to practice your joints used for cutting. It’s also good to work with wood putty. Finally, you can give the wood a perfect finish. And there you have it! You now know how to cut curves in wood!
