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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

  1. Make a Template

    • Start with a master pattern cut from stable material.

    • Smooth the edges carefully—any flaws will transfer to every part.

  2. Attach the Template to the Workpiece

    • Use double-sided tape, hot glue, or screws placed in waste areas.

    • Ensure it’s firmly secured so it won’t shift during the cut.

  3. Saw Along the Template

    • Use a narrow bandsaw blade (¼"–⅜") for curves.

    • Keep the workpiece pressed flat to the table and snug against the template.

  4. Refine if Needed

    • Some woodworkers cut slightly outside the line, then use a router with a flush-trim bit to perfect the edge.

    • Others cut directly against the template on the bandsaw when precision is high.

Benefits of Bandsaw Template Sawing

  • Accuracy – Each piece is identical, even with complex curves.

  • Efficiency – Saves time on production runs of multiple parts.

  • Versatility – Works for furniture, instruments, and custom designs.

  • Reduced Waste – Produces parts closer to final shape than freehand cutting.

Tools and Accessories for Template Sawing

  • Bandsaw (14" or larger recommended for stability).

  • Template Materials – MDF, plywood, or hardboard.

  • Attachment Methods – Double-sided tape, clamps, screws, or hot glue.

  • Blades – Narrow blades (¼"–⅜") for tight curves, wider blades for sweeping arcs.

  • Optional Router Flush-Trim Bit – For cleaning edges perfectly smooth.

Applications in Woodworking

Bandsaw template sawing is used across many woodworking fields:

  • Furniture Making – chair legs, arms, brackets, back splats.

  • Musical Instruments – guitar bodies, necks, violin parts.

  • Decorative Work – scroll patterns, custom moldings, ornaments.

  • Small-Batch Production – repeatable parts for kits or product runs.

Tips for Success

  • Always sand and refine your template before using it.

  • Stay 1⁄16" away from the template line if you plan to flush-trim with a router.

  • Use a sharp blade to reduce burning and wandering.

  • Keep steady pressure—forcing the workpiece may cause drift.

  • 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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Delta Power Tools by Year

Delta Rockwell Power Tools - 1937
Delta Rockwell Power Tools - 1939
Delta Rockwell Power Tools - 1957

Vintage Delta Table Saws

Delta 10" Tilting Table Table Saw Model No. 1160
Delta 10" Contractors Saw
Delta 10" Unisaw
Delta 10" Tilting Arbor Unisaw (1948)
Delta Auto Set Miter Gage
Delta Rip Fence

Newer Delta Table Saws

Delta Table Saws
Delta Contractor Saw
Delta Cabinet Saw
Delta 36-715 10" Hybrid Saw
Delta 36-716 10" Hybrid Saw
Delta 36-717 10" Hybrid Saw

Vintage Delta Band Saws

Delta Homecraft 10" Band Saw No. 768 (1937)
Delta 14" Band Saw Model No. 28-207 (1949)
Delta 14" Band Saw Rip Fence
Old Band Saw Restoration Tips & Stories

Vintage Delta Jointer Models

Delta Homecraft 4" Jointer
Delta 4" Jointer No. 290 (1937)
Delta 6" Jointer
Delta 6 " Deluxe Long Bed Jointer Model 37-220

Vintage Delta Shaper Models

Delta Homecraft Shaper
Delta Heavy Duty Shaper Model 43-205

Vintage Delta Belt and Disc Sanders

Delta 12" Disc Sander No. 1426 (1939)
Delta 6" Belt Sander No. 1400 (1937)
Delta 6" x 48" Belt Sander
Delta Combination 12" Disc & 6" x 48" Belt Sander

Vintage Delta Scroll Saw

Delta 24" Scroll Saw No. 1200 (1948)

Vintage Delta Wood Lathes

Delta 11" Wood Lathe No. 930 4 Speed (1937)
Delta 12" Wood Lathe (1948)
Delta 12" Wood Lathe No. 1460

 

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Visit Our New Woodworking Websites

Also visit our new sister sites that are currently under development with mobile capabilities.

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The Old Woodworking Tools website participates in affiliate programs including Amazon Assoc., Ebay and others. An affiliate program is designed to provide a means for sites to earn fees by advertising and linking to affiliated sites. Affiliates offer a commission on products sold through their affiliate links. There is no additional cost to you.