How to Make Plywood Gussets

Professionals in the carpentry and engineering fields use gussets to join two or more disconnected joints or beams for the purpose of providing strength to a structure. If you plan on building a wood frame structure such as a garage or tool shed, you will certainly need to use various sized plywood gussets. Learn how to make plywood gussets for use in your next building projects.

Things You'll Need

• Sheet of plywood
• Work bench or saw horses
• Carpenter's square
• Pencil
• Circular saw, hand saw or table saw
• Safety gear (safety glasses, gloves)

Instructions

1. Determine the amount of plywood gussets needed for your specific project. Most projects require a certain size, shape and number of gussets.

2. Refer to your project plan for the amount of plywood needed. Plywood sheets that are 4 feet wide by 8 feet long should work.

3. Lay the sheet of plywood on the workbench. Evenly distribute the sheet on the workbench. Using the carpenter's square, measure the dimensions of each gusset according to your construction details.

4. Use your pencil to mark the cut lines for each gusset. Remember that your first measurement may be inaccurate so measure a second time before cutting.

5. Put on your safety gear. Grasp the circular saw and place the blade next to the first cut line and cut along the lines until the gusset is completely cut. Continue until all gussets are cut.

Tips & Warnings

• Always use safety gear when using a saw.