Need to Cut Curves? Try This Trick

You could use cans to draw curves for woodworking projects, but sometimes they’re too small. Joe has a Simple Solution for larger projects.

For certain home improvement projects and woodworking projects, you often need to cut an arc or part of a circle.

Now, you can mark these arcs using a can. This is a great way to do it: for a large-diameter circle, use a large paint can. For smaller-diameter circles or arching, use a smaller can of spray can. Then you just cut along the markings.

But what happens if you need to cut a long, sweeping arc?

Well, you can’t use a can but you can do it using a length of string and a narrow wooden board.

Start by using a handsaw to cut a slot on each end of the board and then tie a knot in the string.

Now, all you need to do is slip the string into one of the slots and flip the board around.

And now just bend the board to the desired arc and slip the string into the second end and just tie it off so it doesn’t slip.

And there — you have what essentially looks like a kid’s bow and arrow, and then you hold it in place, onto your workpiece, and you just mark it. Just draw the pencil right along a piece of wood that’s being held by that string.

And there you go! A perfectly smooth arc ready to be cut.

Watch the video above to see Joe’s Simple Solution.

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Danny Lipford

Danny Lipford is among the country’s most sought-after home improvement experts.

The seasoned remodeling contractor and media personality served as the home improvement expert for CBS’s “The Early Show” and The Weather Channel for over a decade and has made more than 180 national television appearances on “Fox & Friends,” “Inside Edition,” “Morning Express with Robin Meade,” Fox Business Channel, Rachael Ray and more.

He travels the country making appearances as a brand ambassador and spokesperson, and each year contributes expertise to hundreds of popular magazines and online media outlets.

Chelsea Lipford Wolf

Chelsea Lipford Wolf is a born-and-raised home enthusiast, adding her crafty skills and passion for DIY as co-host of the top-rated, nationally syndicated “Today’s Homeowner” TV show.
In addition, Chelsea maintains her own home lifestyle and décor blog and award-winning web-series, “Checking in with Chelsea.”