How to Make Angle an Cut With Table Saw

For the woodworker, a table saw is a must. With this tool, the craftsman or the do-it-yourselfer can make precise cuts, including angles, dadoes and miters. Some table saws come with a number of accessories that enable the craftsman to cut angles. If the table saw doesn’t come with accessories to enable angle cuts, or if the material to be cut is too large for the supplied accessory, a homemade jig will be needed.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Square piece of plywood to fit the table saw table (1/2 inch to 3/4 inch thick)
• Variable-speed drill
• 1-by-2-by-8 foot board
• Measuring tape
• Several 1 1/4-inch wood screws

1. Measure the distance between the grooves on either side of the blade.

2. Mark the bottom side of your plywood accordingly.

3. Attach a 1-by-2 foot board on each of the two marks made.

4. Slide the jig into the grooves for a good fit.

5. Cut the center line with table saw. Affix the 1-by-2s with screws on either side of the cut at the angle needed.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure to have plenty of room around the table saw for material being cut.
• Waxing the table of the saw before use allows smooth operation of the jig.
• Do not overtighten the screws on the angled 1-by-2 board since these will have to move for different angles as needed.
• Never raise the blade any more than needed to cut the wood.

Resources

• Table saw crosscutting jig