How To Make a Circular Saw Guide

A circular saw is a versatile tool for any do-it-yourself enthusiast, but achieving perfectly straight cuts can be challenging without proper guidance. In the video above, This Old House’s Tom Silva and Kevin O’Connor demonstrate various methods for making straight cuts with a circular saw.

Creating a DIY circular saw guide is also a great option. This tool can act as a reference for multiple woodworking projects, helping you to achieve consistently straight, accurate cuts. Our guide walks you through how to create a circular saw guide to achieve precision in your work.

Creating a DIY Circular Saw Guide

Making a circular saw guide is an easy DIY project. You can customize this guide to your specific saw, providing consistent results across multiple projects. Below are the materials needed and step-by-step instructions.

Materials Needed

• Two pieces of 1/4-inch plywood (48 inches long)
• Wood glue
• Hot glue gun
• Circular saw
• Measuring tape
• Pencil
• Clamps

Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to create your own circular saw guide:

1. Cut the base piece of plywood to about 12 inches wide.
2. Cut the fence piece to 3 inches wide.
3. Measure the offset of your saw blade from the edge of the baseplate.
4. Mark a line on the base piece that’s ½ inch more than your saw’s offset measurement.
5. Apply wood glue along this line and attach the fence piece.
6. Use hot glue to secure the fence in place while the wood glue dries.
7. Once dry, run your circular saw along the fence to trim the base to the exact width.
8. Flip the guide over and trim the other side, ensuring the saw’s baseplate is flush against the fence.
9. Optionally, add measurement marks along its length. Apply a clear finish over the marks to prevent them from wearing off over time.

Additional Saw Enhancements

Consider adding the following enhancements to your circular saw guide for more convenience and precision:

• Adjustable stops: Incorporate adjustable stops on your DIY guide for repeated cutting of the same length. This saves time and adds uniformity across multiple pieces.
• Angle cuts: Modify your guide to assist in making angle cuts. By adjusting the fence and checking that it’s securely clamped, you can achieve precise angled cuts for projects requiring miter joints or beveled edges.
• Splinter guards: Attach a splinter guard along the cutting edge of the guide. This reduces splintering on the cut edge, providing a cleaner finish.

Using Your DIY Circular Saw Guide

Once you’ve created your DIY guide, using it is straightforward. Here’s how to make the most of your new tool:

1. Mark your cut line on the workpiece.
2. Align the edge of your guide’s base with the cut line.
3. Clamp the guide securely to your workpiece.
4. Place your circular saw against the fence and make the cut.

This method leads to consistent, accurate cuts without the need for additional measurements or adjustments.

Circular Saw Safety Considerations

Safety should always be a top priority when using a circular saw and guide. Follow these guidelines:

• Always follow the manufacturer’s safety instructions for your specific saw model.
• Keep your hands clear of the cutting path.
• Make sure your workpiece is properly supported and secured.
• Unplug the saw when making adjustments or changing blades.
• Wear appropriate protective equipment, such as safety glasses and hearing protection.

Tips for Maintaining Saw Guide Accuracy

To maintain the accuracy of your cuts and the longevity of your guide, implement these tips:

• Keep the base clean and free from sawdust buildup.
• Re-calibrate the guide if you notice any deviation in cuts.
• Regularly check the fence for straightness and reattach if necessary.
• Replace the guide if it becomes damaged or worn.
• Store the guide flat to prevent warping.