How to Use a Jigsaw Correctly

A jigsaw is the go-to tool for curved cuts, cutouts, and intricate shapes that a circular saw can't handle. It's versatile, relatively easy to control, and works on wood, metal, plastic, and more. Here's how to use a jigsaw correctly for clean, accurate cuts every time.

What Is a Jigsaw Used For?

Curved and freehand cuts in wood, plywood, and MDF
Cutouts (sink holes, electrical boxes, shapes)
Straight cuts in thinner materials
Cutting metal, plastic, and laminate (with the right blade)

Recommended Jigsaw

The BLACK+DECKER 4.5-Amp Jig Saw (BDEJS300C) is a reliable, affordable jigsaw perfect for most DIY tasks — variable speed, easy blade changes, and a comfortable grip. Check it on Amazon →

Choosing the Right Jigsaw Blade

Blade selection is critical — the wrong blade gives rough, slow cuts:

Wood (fast cut): Wide teeth, fewer TPI (teeth per inch) — e.g., T101B
Wood (clean cut): Fine teeth, more TPI — e.g., T101AO
Metal: Very fine teeth, high TPI — e.g., T118A, T118B
Plastic/laminate: Reverse-tooth blades to prevent chipping

The 50-Piece Contractor Jigsaw Blades Set covers all materials — wood, plastic, and metal — with a storage case. Check it on Amazon →

Setting Up

Install the blade: Most modern jigsaws use T-shank blades — insert and click into place (no tools needed).
Set the orbital action: 0 = straight up-and-down (clean cuts); higher settings = more aggressive (faster but rougher).
Set the speed: Low for metal and fine cuts; high for fast wood cuts.
Clamp your workpiece securely.

How to Make a Curved Cut

Draw your cut line clearly on the workpiece.
Put on safety goggles and work gloves. DEWALT Goggles → | HANDLANDY Gloves →
Start the jigsaw before the blade touches the wood.
Place the base plate flat on the workpiece and guide the blade to the line.
Follow the line with smooth, steady forward pressure — let the blade do the cutting.
For tight curves, slow down and make relief cuts (straight cuts into the waste area) to allow the blade to turn.
At the end of the cut, release the trigger and wait for the blade to stop.

How to Make an Interior Cutout

Drill a starter hole inside the cutout area (large enough for the blade to fit through).
Insert the blade into the hole.
Start the saw and cut along your marked line.

Tips for Cleaner Cuts

Apply masking tape over the cut line — reduces splintering on the top face
Cut with the good face down (jigsaws cut on the upstroke, so the top face gets more tearout)
Use a fine-tooth blade for finished surfaces
Keep the base plate pressed firmly against the workpiece throughout
Go slow on curves — rushing causes the blade to wander

Safety Tips

Always wear safety goggles
Keep fingers well away from the blade path
Never start the saw with the blade touching the material
Wait for the blade to stop before setting the saw down
Remove the battery or unplug before changing blades

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using the wrong blade for the material
Forcing the saw through the cut
Not clamping the workpiece
Cutting too fast on curves (blade wanders)
Ignoring orbital action settings

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