Filter
Top Products
G1019 14'' Bandsaw -29-
When cutting curves, simultaneously feed and
turn the stock carefully so that the blade follows
the layout line without being twisted. If a curve is
so abrupt that it is necessary to repeatedly back
up and cut a new kerf, use either a narrower
blade or a blade with more set.
Always make short cuts first, then proceed to the
longer cuts. Relief cuts will also reduce the
chance that the blade will be pinched or twisted.
Relief cuts are made through the waste portion of
the workpiece and are stopped at the layout line.
As you cut along the layout line, waste wood is
released from the workpiece, alleviating any
pressure on the back of the blade. Relief cuts
also make backing the workpiece out easier, if
needed. Figure 32 lists blade widths and the cor-
responding minimum radii each blade will cut.
Cutting Curves
BLADE WIDTH
1
/16"
1
/8"
3
/16"
1
/4"
3
/8"
1
/2"
5
/8"
3
/4"
MINIMUM RADII
1
/8"
3
/16"
5
/16"
5
/8"
1
1
/2"
2
1
/2"
4"
5
1
/2
"
Figure 32. Minimum circle radius vs. blade size.
Stacked Cuts
One of the benefits of a bandsaw is its ability to
cut multiple copies of a particular shape by stack-
ing a number of workpieces together.
Before making stacked cuts, it is essential to
ensure that both the table and the blade are prop-
erly adjusted to 90°. Otherwise, any error will be
compounded with each piece cut from the top to
the bottom of the stack.
To complete a stacked cut:
1. Align your pieces from top to bottom to
ensure that each piece has adequate scrap
to provide a clean, unhampered cut.
2. Using brads in the waste portion of each
piece, secure all the pieces together.
3. Lay out the shape you intend to cut on the
face of the top piece.
4. Make relief cuts perpendicular to the outline
of your intended shape in areas where
changes in blade direction could strain the
woodgrain or cause the blade kerf to bind.
5. Cut the stack of pieces as though you were
cutting a single piece. Follow your layout
line with the blade kerf on the waste side of
your line.