Bandsaw Template Sawing: How to Cut Perfect Curves with Templates
Introduction
When it comes to woodworking, consistency and accuracy are key—especially when producing curved or irregularly shaped parts. Bandsaw template sawing is a technique that allows you to cut identical pieces quickly and accurately by guiding your work against a template. Whether you’re building chairs, guitars, or decorative brackets, template sawing is one of the most efficient ways to duplicate complex shapes.
What Is Bandsaw Template Sawing?
Bandsaw template sawing is the process of attaching a master template—a pattern made from plywood, MDF, or hardboard—to a blank workpiece. The bandsaw blade then follows the outline of the template, ensuring each cut is consistent.
Instead of relying solely on freehand cutting, the template acts as a guide. This guarantees that multiple parts come out the same, even if the shape is complex.
How Template Sawing Works
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Make a Template
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Attach the Template to the Workpiece
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Use double-sided tape, hot glue, or screws placed in waste areas.
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Ensure it’s firmly secured so it won’t shift during the cut.
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Saw Along the Template
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Refine if Needed
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Some woodworkers cut slightly outside the line, then use a router with a flush-trim bit to perfect the edge.
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Others cut directly against the template on the bandsaw when precision is high.
Benefits of Bandsaw Template Sawing
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Accuracy – Each piece is identical, even with complex curves.
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Efficiency – Saves time on production runs of multiple parts.
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Versatility – Works for furniture, instruments, and custom designs.
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Reduced Waste – Produces parts closer to final shape than freehand cutting.
Tools and Accessories for Template Sawing
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Bandsaw (14" or larger recommended for stability).
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Template Materials – MDF, plywood, or hardboard.
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Attachment Methods – Double-sided tape, clamps, screws, or hot glue.
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Blades – Narrow blades (¼"–⅜") for tight curves, wider blades for sweeping arcs.
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Optional Router Flush-Trim Bit – For cleaning edges perfectly smooth.
Applications in Woodworking
Bandsaw template sawing is used across many woodworking fields:
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Furniture Making – chair legs, arms, brackets, back splats.
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Musical Instruments – guitar bodies, necks, violin parts.
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Decorative Work – scroll patterns, custom moldings, ornaments.
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Small-Batch Production – repeatable parts for kits or product runs.
Tips for Success
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Always sand and refine your template before using it.
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Stay 1⁄16" away from the template line if you plan to flush-trim with a router.
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Use a sharp blade to reduce burning and wandering.
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Keep steady pressure—forcing the workpiece may cause drift.
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If making many parts, consider using a bandsaw template jig with bearings or fences for smoother guidance.
Conclusion
Bandsaw template sawing is a time-tested method for creating accurate, repeatable parts in woodworking. By using a master pattern to guide your cuts, you gain precision, efficiency, and the ability to duplicate complex curves with ease. Whether you’re building a set of chairs, crafting musical instruments, or producing custom designs, template sawing turns your bandsaw into a powerful production tool.
If you’re ready to cut perfect curves and streamline your workflow, start experimenting with bandsaw template sawing—it’s a small investment of time that pays off with professional results.
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Vintage Delta Table Saws
Delta 10" Tilting Table Table Saw Model No. 1160
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Delta 24" Scroll Saw No. 1200 (1948)
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Delta 11" Wood Lathe No. 930 4 Speed (1937)
Delta 12" Wood Lathe (1948)
Delta 12" Wood Lathe No. 1460
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