When cutting plywood, you will need to be quiet, as plywood sheets come in large sheets. Keeping the material flat and cutting the edges can be difficult with a handsaw. A sawhorse or roller stand will help you to keep the wood flat while you are cutting. To break up large sheets of plywood, consider using a circular saw. This tool will allow you to cut the finished edge without disturbing anyone around you.
Using a circular saw
One way to use a circular saw to quietly cut plywood is by placing it in the up position. Using this position will prevent you from making crosscuts. However, when cutting veneer, you must be aware that the saw blade can make contact with the edge of the sheet, which can cause splintering. Be sure to place a straightedge guide about three and a half inches above the cut line, and then screw or clamp it to the base plate.
Using a circular saw to cut plywood is not difficult, but there are a few precautions you should follow to ensure that you aren’t damaging the wood. Ensure that you use a blade guard, as they prevent the saw from making any mistakes when using them. Also, use a guide fence, which is simply a piece of wood clamped to the workpiece. Once the blade has cut about an inch into the wood, release the trigger and raise the blade guard.
Using a straight edge is a useful tool for guiding the circular blade during the cut. You can use a scrap piece of wood, or even a sheet of rigid foam insulation. Simply place the plywood on the sheet and mark it with a speed square. Once you have marked the edge of the sheet, slide the saw’s shoe against the straight edge. Then, move the saw forward and ensure that the edge of the sheet is level.
Using a jigsaw
When you want to build a project that is both silent and safe, using a jigsaw is the perfect choice. You can cut a sheet of plywood in two ways, using either a guide or freehand. A guide ensures a straight cut and reduces the amount of sanding required. Clamp the plywood against the guide before cutting it, preventing larger splinters.
Before you start cutting, you need to know how to use a jigsaw. A jigsaw with a variable speed increases the versatility of your project. Slowing the blade action is especially useful when you’re slugging through hardwood. Single speed machines are limited in what they can do, and are not effective for a variety of materials. To avoid slicing through your workpiece, consider using a slower, orbital-action jigsaw.
When choosing a jigsaw, make sure you choose one with a 3/4-inch blade for better accuracy. Also, make sure that you purchase extra batteries for your jigsaw. It is a good idea to use goggles and protective eyewear. If you plan to cut curved-edged plywood, be sure to get one with four settings. In addition, you should also make sure to purchase a jigsaw that is suited for curved cuts.
Using a handsaw
You’ve probably wondered if using a handsaw is the best way to cut plywood in a quiet environment. After all, you don’t want a noisy workshop! That said, using a handsaw is a great option if you’re working alone and don’t want to disturb anyone. Here are some tips to make sure your cuts are as quiet as possible:
First, you should always pay attention to every stroke. You’ll find that most people are tempted to just keep cutting until the job is done. But you should focus on each stroke and make sure the blade is moving straight. If it’s moving too quickly, it could be because the saw is malfunctioning. By taking your time, you’ll make a smoother cut, and your job will go much faster.
Secondly, the best technique is not to use a power saw for quiet cutting. Hand saws are interesting creatures. They’ll fight back against you as you push them. So, do your best to follow the directions provided with the saw. And lastly, remember that the hand saw is not as easy to push as the power saw! There’s a reason why it comes with directions for use.
