Things You'll Need:
- Saw blade
- Safety goggles
- Measuring tape
- Straight edge
- Pencil
- Dust mask
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Step 1
Choose the correct blade for the material you will be working with and the cut you wish to make. For plywood and general purpose cutting, a 24-tooth carbide-tipped blade works best. For cutting boards for use in framing, use a 24-tooth framing blade. A 60-tooth carbide blade or finer works well for finishing and trim work.
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Step 2
Install the blade on the saw if necessary. Consult your owner's manual for proper installation procedures and safety precautions. When changing blades or making adjustments to the saw's setting, make sure the saw is turned off and unplugged from any power source.
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Step 3
Mark on the wood with a pencil where you wish to make the cut. Use measuring tape to ensure exact dimensions. A straight edge will be useful in making sure the line is straight and flush.
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Step 4
Set up the saw for the cut. Adjust the saw foot for the depth of cut. This should be no more than 1/4-inch deeper than the thickness of the wood you are cutting. If your wood is an inch thick, the foot should be set up to cut at a depth of no more than 1 1/4 inches. Adjust the angle of the foot to determine the angle of the cut. Most hand-held saws can accomplish anywhere from a 45 degree to a 90 degree cut.
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Step 5
Line the blade up with the mark on your wood. Using your pencil, mark a line along the outside of the saw foot to determine the width of the foot plate.
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Step 6
Place a loose board or your straight edge flush with the line marking the edge of the foot plate. This will act as a guide for your saw, helping you hold it straight and making a clean cut.
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Step 7
Plug in your saw and line the blade up with your cut line. Holding the edge of the foot against your guide, power on the saw and gently guide the saw down the cut.
