Wood Cutting

Clean, accurate cuts are the foundation of good woodworking. This section covers cutting angles, shapes and curves, and where to get boards cut to size.

Angles: understand a 45° angle, find a 45°, octagon angles, and crown molding flat.

Shapes & curves: cut a hexagon, cut a circle, and bend/curve wood.

Boards & services: store cutting services and acacia cutting boards.

For saws and cutting tools, see our tools & saws guide.

How do you cut a 45-degree angle? Use a miter box, miter gauge, or speed square to mark and guide the cut; check with a combination square before fastening.

Where can I get wood cut to size? Most home centers make straight cuts on sheet goods and lumber — handy when you lack a table saw.