Activities
- Using a combination square or a speed square draw a line across a
scrap piece of wood. This line is perpendicular to the edge. Using
your handsaw try to cut just to the right or left of the line. By
leaving the line instead of cutting right on it you will be able to
have something to follow while you’re cutting. If you’re still
having some difficulty keeping the blade cutting in a straight line
try this trick. Place a board that has a straight edge across this line
and clamp it down. Use this as a reference for keeping the saw
going in a straight line. It also helps keep the saw blade
perpendicular to the work surface. When you’re done, place the
square back on the work surface to see how close you came to
staying on the line. Keep practicing until you can cut a straight
line that’s perpendicular to the edge of the work piece. - Have some fun with your coping saw by drawing some squiggly
lines or circles and trying to stay on track as you saw. Hold the
saw as in the picture from the coping saw section, and you’ll
master it in no time.