I'm a total newbie in woodworking and I'm eager to get started on some projects. Unfortunately, my previous attempts have left me with crooked edges. I have a small workbench, a jigsaw, a circular saw, a regular saw, and several hand tools already. I'm wondering if I should invest in a miter saw specifically for cutting straight edges and angles, or if there are simpler steps I can take to improve my cuts without spending a lot.
2 Answers
Honestly, you might not need any more tools right away! A sharp blade is usually all that's needed to make clean cuts. Focus on getting a good try-square and an accurate marking tool to ensure you know what a nice flat cut looks like. When using any saw, remember to mark your cut on two faces of the wood, cut slowly and steadily, and don’t force the tool. Practice makes perfect, and soon you’ll be making great cuts just by eye!
A table saw can be a game changer if you're looking for straight cuts. I started with a Dewalt jobsite saw and loved it! Make sure it has a good fence that locks in place; a quality fence is key for repeatable cuts. Also, using a speed square as a guide for your circular saw can greatly improve your straight cuts.
Great tip! Clamping a straight edge is also super helpful for longer cuts. It’s not as fancy as a track saw, but it does the job well and saves money.