10 Tips On Cutting Plywood Correctly

By: Cedar Creek Woodshop

10 Tips On Cutting Plywood Correctly

1. Avoid Cross Cutting – Plywood tends to chip the most when cut
across its width (grain). Cutting along the length of the wood
will help to reduce chipping.

2. Use the Right Blade – Special blades are manufactured for
different cutting jobs. The number of teeth, width, angle, and
rake of the blade all impact the cut. Choose a blade that best
matches your specific cutting situation.

3. Circular Saw – cut with the “best face” down.

4. Table Saw – cut with the “best face” up.

5. Score the Cut First – Run the plywood through the saw removing
only a minimal amount of wood. The next cut will leave a cleaner
cut.

6. Masking Tape – Put masking tape over the cut line to help keep the
fibers on the edge from pulling up.

7. Backing Panel – Attach a backing panel with strong double stick
tape. The backer board will take the brunt of the damage.

8. Use a Router – A router fitted with a straight bit will cut a
clean line. A pilot bit and straight edge will help provide a clean line.

9. Score with a Utility Knife – Score the cut line with a utility
knife.

10. Buy a Panel Scoring Setup – Some saws can be fitted with a
plywood panel scoring setup and are ideal if you have to cut a lot of plywood. The setup consists of a smaller blade that scores the
surface of the plywood before it reaches the cutter.

Brought To You Courtesy:
Cedar Creek Woodshop

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