Diy straight edge for circular saw Mar 8, 2025 · This article delves into the critical process of creating a straight edge for your circular saw, exploring various methods, their advantages and disadvantages, and providing practical advice to help you achieve consistently precise cuts. It transforms your tools into guided cutting machines, offering straight edge cuts from 1 to 14 inches and circle cuts up to 24 inches in diameter with jig saws. Jun 23, 2020 · Improve cutting accuracy with Rockler's circular saw jigs - Precise, straight cuts made easy. Jul 25, 2025 · Struggling with uneven cuts? Learn how to cut wood straight using a circular saw, handsaw, or jigsaw with these expert tips for clean, precise cuts. They let you make long, perfectly straight cuts with your trusty circular saw. If you don’t trust yourself to cut a straight line, use one of the pre-cut edges of your plywood for this reference edge (just double check to make sure it’s straight). In contrast, a track saw guide is a specific track or rail where the saw fits and slides along. May 15, 2024 · Discover four effective techniques to make straight cuts with a circular saw. This guide will walk you through the process of crafting a DIY circular saw guide, ensuring you get perfect, repeatable cuts every time, turning your circular saw into a precise track saw alternative. In this article, I will be walking you through the process of making a DIY circular saw rip fence guide. Sep 24, 2020 · Although I would love to have one. It’s simple to set up and provides reliable results for most DIY tasks. There’s no need to buy an expensive guide when you can easily make your own. Elevate your woodworking skills today! A circular saw straight edge guide will make your life in the workshop much easier. When you need to make precise and straight cuts with a circular saw, it’s essential to know the right techniques. Either a straight edge as on the left or a saw track on the right. com. Jan 5, 2025 · Typically made from plywood or MDF, a DIY saw guide is most often needed for long, straight cuts. com Voluntary 30-Day Return Guarantee: You can return many items you have purchased within 30 days following delivery of the item to you. com Getting Started: Essential Tools for Straight Mar 27, 2024 · This circular saw guide serves as a straight-edge guide as well as a crosscut guide. A laser guide: This accessory projects a laser beam onto the cutting surface, providing a visual reference for following a straight line. Plunge or track saws are great but if you only have a circular saw making accurate, straight cuts is still possible with a little knowhow. ca/projects/how-to-make-a-straighte Feb 16, 2025 · Straight Edge or Guide: A straight edge helps guide the circular saw, ensuring a straight, precise cut. Step-by-step instructions and video provided. Aug 5, 2025 · Can you get straight cuts with a circular saw without a fence? Yes, you can achieve remarkably straight cuts with a circular saw even without its built-in rip fence, by utilizing a dedicated cutting guide or a DIY straight edge. This guide will show you exactly how to do that, transforming your circular saw into a precision cutting tool. We also included plans for a circular saw rip guide. The guides are compact for easy storage and most importantly, they can help you work more accurately and safely in the shop. Making straight cuts in plywood is super easy when you have a straight edge to guide your saw. Dec 19, 2022 · Even experts need extra help to make quality cuts with a circular saw. O'SKOOL 100" Straight Edge Clamp. Today we are going to talk about how to cut a 2 x 4 with a circular saw. A straight edge allows you to make quicker, more accurate cuts, and you can also build a similar tool to make cross cuts along a board’s width. This guide will help you achieve clean cuts and smooth edges. Cutting wood with a circular saw requires a steady hand. It acts as a guide to help keep the saw on track along the intended cutting line. This guide helps you make straight, accurate cuts every time. If the board you’re cutting is any wider than 8” I recommend cutting with a guide. May 13, 2012 · Peter, BUILD one! Get a sheet of 1/2" plywood. May 20, 2020 · Make this inexpensive and simple DIY Track Saw Jig for your Circular Saw. Let’s dive in and find the perfect guide for your next project! Dec 2, 2024 · I am looking to get a straight edge for my circular saw. So I am looking for a system where I can get a straight cut without it wondering at all. Learn about DIY circular saw guide projects, circular saw guide plans, and achieve precision cutting with circular saw using a circular saw straight edge jig. A circular saw is a versatile tool that can make the job easier, but without a guide, it can be challenging to get a straight cut. Instead, make a guideline with a ruler or guide the saw with a straight edge. A clean, straight cut not only enhances the appearance but also ensures that pieces fit together properly. While it may seem intimidating, it is a simple process once you know the basics. Then, carefully align the circular saw with the straight edge and make a cut along the marked line. Cut about a 4 inch strip off one long edge. This is a great tool for ripping plywood, trimming Make a circular saw straight edge / edge guide for free using scrap wood. Guide: Use a long, straight edge guide (either commercial or DIY) clamped securely to the plywood. Extendable from 50" to 100", this durable aluminum guide works with circular saws, routers, and more. After building this shop-made guide, you’ll be making consistent rips and crosscuts easily. What We Like: The guide turns a circular saw into an edge-guided tool. In this guide, I show you three methods to make a straight edge for your projects. Marking: Clearly mark your cut line with a pencil and a straight edge. It turns your circular saw into a precise cutting machine. Work with material up to 8 feet and get the cuts you need - whether you're using a circular saw, jigsaw, or trim router (Works with most brands). Fast setup, strong grip, and pro-level accuracy for woodworking and DIY projects. Build this DIY track saw in a few hours with a step-by-step guide and video. But buying a track for your saw can be prohibitively expensive, especially given how easy it is to build one yourself. The Kreg KMA2685 Rip-Cut Circular Saw Guide is a smart tool. There are a few things to consider when using a circular saw to cut timber, such as the type of cut you need to make, the depth of the blade, and whether you need to use a guide to ensure a straight cut. Finally, repeat the process on the opposite side of the guide to create a full-width cutting Oct 16, 2019 · Learn how to use your circular saw to make laser-accurate straight cuts! Here are four sure-fire ways to cut precise straight lines on boards and plywood! Oct 21, 2024 · Learn how to make precise and perfectly straight cuts with a portable circular saw with this guide on how to make a circular saw guide. They come in 24-, 35-, and 50-inch lengths and have an easy-to-use design that even a novice will have no trouble They offer a simple locking system that ensures that these straight edge clamps mount quickly and easily to your material to guide your router or circular saw for a perfectly straight edge every time. Harbor Freight buys their top quality tools from the same factories that supply our competitors. This Old House contributor Mark Clement demonstrates how to create a straightedge guide for your circular saw to give you accurate and clean rip cuts every time. Doesn't have to be a perfect straight cut, but do the best you can. Sep 29, 2024 · Straight edge is a narrow and long plank of wood glued onto a wooden platform to help guide the circular saw. Sep 15, 2024 · Here are three simple methods you can use to get perfectly straight lines with a circular saw. Jul 6, 2021 · The Kreg Straight Edge Guide helps circular saws, jigsaws, and routers make straight, accurate cuts. Cut a straight line without a guide For a recent project I used my circular saw to cut a straight line on a 2×8 without a guide. Mar 11, 2025 · A circular saw is one of the most versatile power tools, but getting a perfectly straight cut can be challenging without the right tools. Get clean, accurate cuts. Sep 4, 2025 · ProGrip GCX 100" Straight Edge Clamp for Circular Saw – Precision Saw Guide for Accurate Crosscuts & Rip Cuts – Extendable Aluminum Guide Rail for Woodworking & DIY Projects: Amazon. And while they can come in different forms and sizes, they all have one thing in common – a long straight edge to guide your circular saw. Apr 21, 2021 · Learn how to make your own circular saw guide with our step-by-step method, and get perfectly straight rip cuts and crosscuts. It requires precision and a few basic steps. Aug 15, 2024 · A circular saw is one of the most versatile tools in any workshop or job site, but achieving straight cuts can be challenging. This DIY project is quick and easy and lets you make straight cuts. This jig can be adapted for any length cu… Oct 6, 2025 · Ripping boards with a circular saw is a straightforward process. Apr 1, 2024 · Circular Saw Guide Make this circular saw cutoff guide from almost any straight pieces of scrap wood. This guide covers the best tools and techniques to cut Aug 1, 2024 · It’s not always easy to get a straight cut with a circular saw by hand. Here we reveal a host of DIY and cost-effective solutions to ensure clean straight lines Mar 25, 2025 · Struggling with straight cuts? Learn how to cut straight with a circular saw using easy techniques, guide rails accurate results every time! Sep 18, 2025 · To cut straight with a circular saw, mark the cut line, align the blade with the line, and use a guide or fence for accuracy. Aug 2, 2025 · Learn how to make straight cuts with a circular saw using simple guides and proven techniques. To make truly straight, square cuts with a circular saw you really need to use a fence of some kind to keep the blade steady and on course O'SKOOL 100” Straight Edge Clamp for Circular Saw - Precision Saw Guide for Accurate Cuts, Cross Cut and Rip Cut | Circular Saw Guide with Straight Edge Guide Add to cart Jul 6, 2021 · Want to cut straight with a circular saw? Learn the top tips and get expert advice on how to achieve straight cuts on plywood and other material. Carpentry demands perfectly straight, square boards if you hope to produce acceptable results with your woodworking projects, so using a circular saw freehand can present a problem in this endeavor. You can look up plywood circular saw guide for the specifics. Clamps: To secure the plywood firmly to your work surface, preventing movement during cutting. I’m currently using a piece of a solid core door and clamps. Next, use a measuring tape or ruler to mark the desired width of the guide on the plywood. Image Source: pineandpoplar. To do this accurately, you need to know the distance from the edge of your shoe to the blade. Jun 12, 2023 · When it comes to woodworking, having a straight edge is essential for making precise cuts. Apr 16, 2025 · It will explain how to build circular saw track for both ripping with a circular saw and crosscutting with a circular saw. Wonder who has had experience with these kinds of tools and if one tends to be preferred over the other. Mar 3, 2024 · This complete guide explains the benefits and techniques of using an edge guide with a circular saw for precise and accurate cuts, helping you achieve professional results in your woodworking projects. Feb 26, 2023 · 1. Jan 6, 2024 · A circular saw straight edge guide will make your life in the workshop much easier. Sep 19, 2025 · The circular saw straight edge guide can be used to make both rip cuts and crosscuts, unlike the rip fence guide which is intended for rip cuts only. Have you ever needed to cut a plywood sheet, but you either don’t have a guide or trying to do the math to figure out just how far to offset your guide from the line was too much of a […] Product Details About This Product Make perfectly straight cuts up to 8 feet in sheet goods with guided cutting: Cut sheet goods down to size with precision and ease by using the Kreg Straight Edge Guide. Mar 20, 2024 · A circular saw guide is a tool that ensures precise and straight cuts when using a circular saw. How do I cut a 2 x 4 with a circular saw? Learn how to cut Straight Lines with your Circular Saw with my free guide to building a Cutting Jig. What you're after is that nice straight factory edge. Fortunately, making a straight edge for a circular saw is a simple process that can be done with just a few tools and materials. We cut out the middleman and pass the savings to you! ProGrip GCX 100" Straight Edge Clamp for Circular Saw – Precision Saw Guide for Accurate Crosscuts & Rip Cuts – Extendable Aluminum Guide Rail for Woodworking & DIY Projects 100+ bought in past month Small Business Add to cart ProGrip GCX 100" Straight Edge Clamp for Circular Saw – Precision Saw Guide for Accurate Crosscuts & Rip Cuts – Extendable Aluminum Guide Rail for Woodworking & DIY Projects 50+ bought in past month Small Business Add to cart If a table saw is out, then you can make a 96" straight edge using the factory edge of another piece of plywood. This post is sponsored by the Home Depot Prospective Campaign. They’re easy to make, easy to use and give great results according to our home maintenance experts. The jig typically consists of a long, rigid rail or fence that is clamped or secured to a workpiece, guiding the saw in a straight line during the cut. A circular saw straight edge guide will make your life in the workshop much easier. This guide is essential for various woodworking and DIY projects, such as cutting plywood, lumber, or other materials accurately. Learn how to cut Straight Lines with your Circular Saw with my free guide to building a Cutting Jig. Grip the handle on the top of the circular saw with your non-dominant hand to keep the circular saw straight up-and-down as you cut. Master tools like Speed Square and Kreg guides for precision in your projects. The Kreg Rip-Cut makes cutting wood simple and safe. Alternatively, a circular saw with a guide can ensure a clean cut. Here’s a quick and easy DIY circular saw guide to make straight cuts in plywood. You cut wood straight without a table saw using these woodworking tips and tricks. Make the right-hand arm of the guide a bit longer than the distance from the blade to the left edge of the saw’s shoe. Subscribed 49 3. In the video, This Old House expert Tom Silva demonstrates Sep 18, 2025 · To make a circular saw guide, start by attaching a straight edge to a piece of plywood using screws or clamps. Dec 3, 2024 · A straight-edge guide or a track system: These accessories help guide the circular saw along a predetermined path, ensuring straight cuts with minimal effort. mp/731woodwork Subscribed 49 3. Ask This Old House general contractor Tom Silva demonstrates some techniques for cutting straight edges with a circular saw. Jan 20, 2025 · Struggling with straight cuts? Build your own DIY circular saw guide in just 7 easy steps! Improve accuracy, safety, and efficiency with this simple, budget-friendly solution. 3K views 3 years ago #saw #tips #DIY How to Make Straight Cuts with a Circular Saw, Quinn Straight Edge Review, Harbor Freight / blancojackey more A DIY Guide: How To Cut 2×4 Straight With Circular Saw Picture this: It’s a sunny Saturday morning, and you’ve decided to tackle that long-awaited home improvement project in your garage. This kind of jig can be reused for multiple projects and adjusted later if needed. com: Tools & Home ImprovementAmazon. The saw glides smoothly along the track, and the result is a straight, chip-free edge. Apr 1, 2025 · The ProGrip Straight Edge Clamps are the best straight-edge clamps on the market. So far I have been using a self made system where I run my circular saw again a straight edge which has another piece of plywood that is cut to match the kerf of my saw blade. Additionally, maintaining a steady hand and controlling the speed of the saw will help achieve straight cuts. Just be sure to take time setting up your straight edge so that all your cuts are square and symmetrical. Cutting a straight line through plywood with a circular saw seems easy enough, but it rarely comes out as straight as it feels while you’re making the cut. If you’re a DIY enthusiast or a professional A straight edge jig for a circular saw is a guided accessory that allows users to make precise, straight cuts with a handheld circular saw. Jan 8, 2024 · Discover how to create your own DIY Circular Saw Guide with clamping T-Slots, a great jig that transforms your circular saw into a precise DIY track saw. Without a track saw, you’d need to make your long rip cuts with your circular saw freehand. Apr 21, 2025 · Cutting timber with a circular saw is a useful skill for any DIY enthusiast to have. There are several ways I could've accomplished this, but in case this need came up in the future why not build a jig to make my life easier. Ensure the guide is long enough to provide stable support for the entire length of the cut. Looking for a way to easily cut perfectly straight edges with your circular saw? Check out this handy Straight Edge Guide by Kreg. In other words, the blade Jan 5, 2025 · 3 BEST Circular Saw HACKS + UPGRADES! (Cut Straight Every Time#1 TIP! No TRACK SAW Needed) Plans for this project:https://ibuildit. Step by step we will make one together. With this simple jig you'll be making long or short rip cuts quickly and easily. ca/plans/straightedge-guide-plans/Build article with more detail:https://ibuildit. Post may also contain affiliate links. How do I cut a 2 x 4 with a circular saw? A circular saw guide like this is really easy to make and very inexpensive when compared with the alternatives. STRAIGHT CUT JIG FOR CIRCULAR SAW: While working on a project I needed to make a long straight cut. By preventing the saw from wandering off course, it guarantees clean and professional If you have a 7 1/2" circular saw, I wouldn't bother. Circular saws are powerful In this video I will show you how to make straight cuts on wood with a circular saw. Attach the two pieces with glue and screws at exact right angles to each other. Sep 18, 2025 · To cut straight with a circular saw, mark the cut line, align the blade with the line, and use a guide or fence for accuracy. DIY instructions included. A circular saw or hand plane will help refine the edge. Let me show you how I made mine. 12" Aluminium Rafter Square: https://amzn. Find and save ideas about diy straight edge for circular saw on Pinterest. So anything would be an upgrade! Feb 2, 2024 · Learn how to use a cut guide for a circular saw effectively, avoid common mistakes, and discover tips and tricks for accurate cuts. (I am still using that guide to this day though. A DIY track saw is a homemade version of a commercial track saw, which allows for precise, straight cuts using a circular saw. Sep 28, 2015 · Make this simple circular saw jig and every cut will be perfectly straight! Just clamp the jig to your board and slide it along the fence. Get This Domain Finding the best straight edge for your circular saw can be challenging, but we’ve made it simple for you. Q: Can I cut a 4×8 sheet of plywood straight with a circular saw? A: Yes, you can. This article explores methods and tools for creating straight cuts with a circular saw, from simple DIY solutions to advanced track saw systems. I already made a circular saw track in the past. If you're looking to enhance the precision and versatility of your circular and jig saws, the Milescraft 1403 Universal Saw Guide might just be the accessory you need. If you need to make a straight cut through a length of wood, don’t guess. To make truly straight, square cuts with a circular saw you really need to use a fence of some kind to keep the blade steady and on course Nov 18, 2024 · To achieve a straight edge on rough cut lumber, use a straightedge or a level to guide your cuts. Achieving a straight edge is essential for ensuring that your boards fit together seamlessly. Dec 16, 2022 · 4 Ways to Make Straighter Cuts With Your Circular Saw | Bora NGX Rip Guide Review Woodshop Mike 61K subscribers 49K views 2 years ago #circularsaw #woodworkingtools #toolreviews This Old House general contractor Tom Silva and host Kevin O'Connor show how to make precise and perfectly straight cuts with a portable circular saw. Cutting a 2 x 4 with a circular saw may seem easy enough, but what do you do without a table, or on a job site with only a sawhorse? Maybe you need to make a straight edge cut or rip some 2 x 4’s into 2 x 2’s. Apr 17, 2025 · A circular saw guide is a tool that helps you make straight and accurate cuts with a circular saw. Aug 21, 2025 · Can you cut a straight line with a circular saw? Absolutely! With the right techniques and a few simple accessories, you can achieve perfectly straight cuts with your circular saw for all your DIY projects. One of the tools on my top 10 is parked free, courtesy of GoDaddy. What is a good option for a straight edge to break down full sheets of ply? A track saw isn’t currently in the budget, so I’m hoping to just get a straight edge to use with my circular saw. Now cut another strip off that same side of the plywood about 10 or 12 inches wide. 3K views 3 years ago #saw #tips #DIY How to Make Straight Cuts with a Circular Saw, Quinn Straight Edge Review, Harbor Freight / blancojackey more Jan 11, 2024 · Learn how to create your own circular saw rip fence for precise and straight cuts. Aug 14, 2025 · FAQ: Your Circular Saw Straight Cut Questions Answered Q: What is the easiest way to get a straight cut with a circular saw? A: The easiest way is to use a clamped-on straight edge guide. We’ll Thank you so much for joining us at One Project Closer for this tutorial on How to Make a DIY Track Saw Straight Edge. Mar 22, 2025 · In this guide, I’ll show you how to correctly make a straight cut with a circular saw. Cutting straight with a circular saw is essential for any woodworking project. In other words, the blade Jan 5, 2025 · 3 BEST Circular Saw HACKS + UPGRADES! (Cut Straight Every Time#1 TIP! No TRACK SAW Needed) Sponsored by Lowe's. Jan 11, 2024 · Learn how to create your own circular saw rip fence for precise and straight cuts. In this article, we will Jan 9, 2024 · If using an straight edge guide, make sure the circular saw is seated evenly in the track or up against the edge. This DIY project will help you achieve professional results without breaking the bank. It was a great upgrade for my circular saw but it allows me to make only shorter straight cuts and does not allow me to make crosscuts. It’s a powerful tool that offers versatility and ease in cutting […] Today I am building a new version of the circular saw jig for cutting plywood, MDF, melamine and other sheet goods but this time I am changing the fence posi This SIMPLE Attachment Helps You Make VERY Straight Cuts! (Circular Saw Rip Fence) Pure Living for Life 518K subscribers Subscribe Jan 5, 2025 · To create the second straight edge, align the base of the circular saw on the three-inch side of the aluminum guide, so the blade is closest to the aluminum guide, and cut. com Return Policy: Amazon. Whether you're working with plywood, MDF, or solid wood, using the right guides and accessories can help you achieve professional-grade accuracy. (See b Feb 15, 2021 · One of the most common ways we use to make rip cuts with a circular saw is to clamp a straight edge. How to get straight cuts with a circular saw! (click more to see links to tools)🚨 TOOL DEALS emailed daily! Sign up here - https://mailchi. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to master cutting straight lines with power saws. I created a set with only a circular saw and it performed just as well as the track I cut on the table saw. To get better results, here’s three Aug 28, 2022 · Track saws are great tools. This step-by-step will lead to a DIY tip you'll use Sep 19, 2025 · Design and Construction: A circular saw guide is typically a straight edge or fence that helps guide the saw for accurate cuts. Even a straight edge guide clamp will cost you more than what I spent on this project. How to make a straight edge guide for woodworking with your circular saw. . It’s perfect for any home improvement project or woodworking job. SUBSCRIBE to This Old House: http Aug 24, 2025 · Getting straight cuts with a circular saw isn’t always easy. Opinions (and typos) are 100% our own, and we appreciate you supporting our site in order to continue to provide free content to our readers. Whether you’re working on a DIY project or a professional woodworking job, cutting straight is crucial for a flawless result. That’s why choosing the right straight edge is important. While there are straight edges available for buying, it is much cheaper to make one yourself. Our Aug 8, 2025 · It also helps minimize splintering. Jul 15, 2022 · The only edge that needs to be straight is the side of the top fence your circular saw rides against. Using a circular saw to rip boards can be a game-changer for your woodworking projects. Learn how to set it up and if I would use it again. Achieving a straight edge on plywood is crucial for any woodworking project. You only need to attach the clamp to the material. Rough cut lumber often presents challenges for DIY projects and woodworking. The universal sled Jan 4, 2023 · The straight edge clamp functions with the circular saw, allowing the user to create precise cuts. I have instructions on how to set up a guide for your circular saw below. to/4hISzsE All Jan 26, 2023 · Wondering how to get straighter cuts with your circular saw? We'll show you five different methods, two of which you likely already own! Make a circular saw straight edge / edge guide for free using scrap wood. A must have jig/guide for anyone starting off in woodworking who cant afford a table saw or track saw Oct 8, 2024 · Learn how to use a circular saw to quickly and accurately cut long boards and plywood. Nov 2, 2024 · To cut straight with a circular saw, use a guide or a straight edge to ensure accuracy while cutting. This jig can be adapted for any length cu… Today I am building a new version of the circular saw jig for cutting plywood, MDF, melamine and other sheet goods but this time I am changing the fence posi This SIMPLE Attachment Helps You Make VERY Straight Cuts! (Circular Saw Rip Fence) Pure Living for Life 518K subscribers Subscribe Oct 1, 2009 · PM tells you how to build a your own circular saw guides. It typically involves a guide rail made from materials like plywood or MDF, which the circular saw follows to ensure a straight cut. Your DIY projects will thank you. Dec 10, 2024 · To get a straight edge on plywood, use a straightedge or a level to guide your cutting tool. You can build your own using basic woodworking skills and readily available materials. Your circular saw base has what I call a "fat" side and a "skinny" side. Whether a quick trim or a long 8-foot cut, you’ll always get clean, straight edges.