Introduction: How to Cut a Straight Line Using a Skill Saw or Jig Saw

About: I'm batman

This instructable will teach you how you can cut straight lines using an electric skill saw, circular saw or jig saw. This is very handy when cutting long boards like a piece of ply wood. The ideal thing to use would be a table saw, but like me, some people can't afford one.

Step 1: What You Will Need

The things you will need to do this are: - a pencil - to mark your cut line. - a square- to assist in making a straight pencil mark. - a straight piece of wood- this is to act as your saws guide so it should be free of big bumps or warping. - 2 clamps- these need to be able to tighten as they will hold your guide. If they move your cut won't be straight. - a measuring tape- to set your guide in the proper place. -of course you'll need a saw and a board you want to cut.

Step 2: Measure Your Blade to Shoe Distance

Measure the distance from your blade to to edge of your saws shoe. The shoe is the bottom piece of metal that rests on you wood when cutting. measure the shorter side of your saw for a smaller more manageable measurement. Look at the photo above to see what this measurement should look like looks like.

Step 3: Put the Guide Onto Your Lumber

Draw the line onto your board where you would like to make your cut. This line really only needs to be on the first and last 6 inches of your wood but I like it all the way across as a visual guide. Put your guide onto the wood your going to cut and get your clamps ready. Measure from your pencil line the same distance you measured on your saw and make a pencil mark. Do this to both sides then clamp your guide onto these marks. Measure again and adjust till its as perfect as you want. I like to get my saw ready as if I'm going to start the cut and make sure the blade lines up with my line when the saws she edge is against the guide.

Step 4: Cut Your Wood

Now start your cut. While cutting keep the saws shoe against your guide and you will have a nice straight cut. Cut slow and steady don't force the saw forward. Wear the proper safety equipment and blah blah blah.