How to Cut Curves With a Band Saw

Set up the band saw in a well-lit location. Many models are supplied with light attachments that you can adjust for maximum illumination of the work area. If you have a bench-mount model, set it on a supporting surface so that you can stand over the work table without bending over.

Open the blade cover. Loosen the tension between the rollers by turning the adjustment lever counterclockwise. Slip a 1/2-inch blade onto the rollers with the teeth facing the front of the machine. Tighten them to the tension specified in the saw's instruction manual. Band saw blades come in different lengths, so buy one that fits your machine.

Mark the outline of the curve you want to cut on the piece of wood. Remove the fence from the saw table, then turn on the machine. Feed the wood slowly into the blade, holding it on either side with both hands. Angle the wood so the blade is parallel with the first part of the outline.

Feed the wood through the blade slowly enough to maintain control, but quickly enough to prevent the saw from vibrating and ruining the cut. Turn the wood as needed to keep the teeth on the outline. If the blade starts to bind or bend, back up and move the wood slightly to one side so the blade cuts into the off-cut to make a wider kerf, or gap. Then continue along the outline.

Hold the wood firmly as you approach the end of the cut. Continue holding the wood until the blade emerges, to avoid splintering or breaking it at the very end of the cut.