Plywood can be effectively cut using a variety of tools, depending on the desired cut quality and complexity.
Essential Tools for Cutting Plywood
One of the most common tools used to cut plywood is a circular saw, often referred to as a skill saw. These portable power saws are versatile and suitable for making straight cuts across or along the length of plywood sheets.
However, other tools are also frequently used:
- Table Saw: Ideal for making precise, straight, and repeatable cuts, especially on larger sheets (with assistance) or when ripping long strips.
- Jigsaw: Best for making curved cuts, intricate shapes, or short straight cuts.
- Track Saw: Provides highly accurate, splinter-free straight cuts comparable to a table saw, but with the portability of a circular saw, guided by an aluminum track.
- Handsaw: A manual option suitable for small jobs, rough cuts, or when power tools are unavailable. Different tooth patterns are available for wood.
Cutting Plywood with a Circular Saw
As referenced, a circular saw (skill saw) is a popular choice due to its affordability and portability. Here are some tips for using one to cut plywood:
- Use the Right Blade: A fine-tooth plywood blade or a finish-cut blade is recommended to minimize tear-out (splintering) on the surface veneer.
- Set Blade Depth: Adjust the blade depth so it extends just slightly below the thickness of the plywood (about 1/4 inch or 6 mm). This reduces vibration and potential splintering.
- Support the Plywood: Ensure the plywood is well-supported along the cut line to prevent the offcut piece from breaking away prematurely and causing the saw to bind or the wood to splinter. Sawhorses or scrap wood can be used.
- Cut from the Back: To reduce tear-out on the visible face of the plywood, place the good side down if your saw cuts on the upstroke (most circular saws do). If you cut from the face side, you can apply painter's tape along the cut line to help hold down the fibers.
- Use a Guide: For straight cuts, use a straight edge, clamping it firmly to the plywood to guide the base plate of the circular saw.
Circular Saw Cut Types & Considerations
| Cut Type | Description | Key Consideration |
|---|---|---|
| Rip Cut | Cutting along the length of the sheet (parallel to the grain) | Often requires a long guide or table saw. |
| Cross Cut | Cutting across the width of the sheet (perpendicular to the grain) | Easier to manage with a guide or mark. |
| Angled Cut | Cutting at an angle other than 90 degrees (bevel cut) | Requires adjusting the saw's base plate. |
Other Cutting Methods
Jigsaw for Curves and Shapes
A jigsaw is held by hand and allows for maneuvering along curved lines marked on the plywood. Using a blade designed for wood and setting the orbital action appropriately can help achieve smoother cuts.
Table Saw Precision
A table saw provides a stable platform and fence for guiding plywood, making it easier to achieve precise, straight cuts repeatedly. This is often the preferred tool for cabinetry or projects requiring tight tolerances.
Track Saw Accuracy
For the highest accuracy in straight cuts without a large table saw, a track saw system uses a guide rail that the saw locks onto, ensuring a perfectly straight line with minimal tear-out.
In summary, cutting plywood is most commonly done with a circular saw (skill saw), but the best tool depends on the required cut type, precision, and the user's experience level.
