How to Build a Curve Out of 2 X 4 Wood

Many carpenters and do-it-yourselfers have had the opportunity to work with standard 2-by-4 lumber on their projects. Often, this material is kept in straight sections with angled joints from one piece to the next. But there are certain projects when a curve is needed in the board. This is often the case when framing an archway or forming a radius for concrete. Build a curve with a 2-by-4 with the right tools and a little ingenuity.

2-by-4 lumber
Circular saw
Nails
Stakes
Sawhorses
Clamps

Instructions

- 1
  Ensure that the lumber you are using is as square and straight as possible. Look down the length of board and check for any bends or bows. While minor bending is part of a natural product, major twists will only cause problems down the line.
- 2
  Set the 2-by-4 on the sawhorses and clamp the board securely. This process requires making a series of cuts in the back side of the board and you will want the material secure for this.
- 3
  Mark the start and ending points of the curve on the face of the board. This will provide reference for where the cuts should be made.
- 4
  Set the depth of cut on the circular saw to 3/8 of an inch.
- 5
  Start at one mark and begin cutting slots in the face of the board. The spacing of these slots will depend on the radius of the desired curve. The smaller the radius, the more frequent the cuts. Try to maintain equal distance from one cut to the next.
- 6
  Remove the board from the sawhorses and test-fit to the frame or stakes of your project. Use nails or screws to hold the board in place.

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