How to make a plunge cut with a jigsaw?

29th February 2020


How to make a plunge cut with a jigsaw


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		Plunge cutting involves beginning a cut in the middle of a workpiece without drilling a pilot hole first. Plunge cuts should only be made in soft materials such as wood and plasterboard. When working with a metal, a starter hole is always required. A special type of blade with a sharp tip should be used to make a plunge cut.


		Step 1 – Mark cutting line Mark on your workpiece the line you want to cut. Plunge cuts are especially useful when making rectangular cut-outs for electrical outlets, for instance.

		Step 2 – Position jigsaw Firmly position the front of the jigsaw shoe on the workpiece so that the blade is nearly horizontal and aligned with your cutting line.

		Step 3 – Lower jigsaw Turn on your jigsaw and wait for it to gather speed. Then, slowly and steadily tilt the tool back so that the blade gradually penetrates the material. Once the blade has passed through the workpiece, the shoe should sit flat on its surface.

		Wonkee Donkee top tip: As you lower the back of the jigsaw, pull the tool very slightly towards you. This will help the blade to pierce the workpiece more cleanly and it will be less likely to snap.

		Step 4 – Continue with cut When the blade has fully penetrated the workpiece and the shoe is horizontal, you can begin to follow your marked cutting line.