If you don’t use a circular saw on a regular basis you may find that it’s a bit of a challenge to make a nice straight crosscut. One of the easiest ways to consistently make accurate crosscuts and do it safely is to make a T-shaped crosscut jig. They are incredibly effective and worth the time to make.

To make a crosscut guide:

  1. Screw and glue a piece of 1/2″ plywood to a 1″ x 4″ to create the T-shape, using a square to make sure the two pieces join at a 90-degree angle.
  2. Place your circular saw on the jig, and cut off any excess 1″ x 4″ to give align the jig to your saw blade.

To make a crosscut using the jig:

  1. Place the jig on the stock.
  2. Position the end of the cut-off 1″ x 4″ even with the location of the crosscut.
  3. Hold the jig firmly in place, and make the cut.
Editorial Contributors
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Joe Truini

Radio Show Co-Host

Joe Truini is a contractor, author, and the host of “Simple Solutions” on Today’s Homeowner TV and the weekly Today’s Homeowner radio show. He has worked on both large commercial projects and residential remodeling, and has written for national publications such as This Old House and Popular Mechanics. He has also written eight books, including three best-selling shed-building books. Joe lives in Connecticut with his family and enjoys hiking, traveling, and baseball in his spare time.

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