The Best Saw for Cutting Shapes Out Of Wood in [2023]

Well, cutting shapes out of wood is quite a challenging job, even for woodworkers. However, as they are professionals, the only way to show their skillsets is by cutting complex shapes out of wood. Still, skills aren’t the only requirement; there is a considerable contribution of best saw for cutting shapes out of wood. 

An accurate cutting tool is one that performs its specific job seamlessly. So as to cut woods, the most common tool that pops up in mind is the saw. If you want to work on wood to make complex patterns, circles, triangles, or any other shape, you must get your hands on these saws to do the job, like a pro woodworker. There are different saw types that are selling in the market. You can choose from them, but the purchasing experience would be great with a couple of prior information regarding the saw, its types, and other functionalities. Before pulling the credit card out of your pocket, take thorough research on the saw in order to cut intricate shapes. 

6 best saw for cutting shapes out of wood recommendation

1	Bosch JS260 Top-Handle Jigsaw	Best for cutting a shape out of wood		Check Amazon Price Check Walmart Price
2	Shop Fox W1713 Scroll Saw	Best Design		Check Amazon Price
3	BLACK+DECKER Jig Saw	Best Jigsaw		Check Amazon Price Check Walmart Price
4	WEN 3939 Benchtop Band Saw	Best Affordable		Check Amazon Price Check Walmart Price
5	WEN 3921 Two-Direction Scroll Saw	Best Value		Check Amazon Price Check Walmart Price
6	DEWALT DW788 Scroll Saw	Best Overall		Check Amazon Price Check Walmart Price

6 Best Saw For Cutting Shapes Out Of Wood

Time to have a look at the saws that are supposedly best for cutting shapes out of wood. As there are three types of saws, including jigsaw, scroll saw, and band saw, you might have to use them as per the sort of your project. For the sake of your help, we gathered top-of-the-town saws; keep continuing the reading until you find the best saw for cutting your wood in the shape you want.   

Quick information about this product

• Manufacturer By: Bosch
• Country of Origin: China
• Dimensions/Weight: 6.87 pounds
• Type of Style: ‎Jigsaw Only
• Voltage & Amperage: 120 Volts & 6.0 Amp
• Warranty:‎ 30-Day money-back guarantee- 1-year warranty

This jigsaw comes with a sturdy 6 AMP motor that provides 3100 strokes per minute. It also added up with variable speed control along with a dial. You can control the operating process with the trigger, and the dial helps to manage the speed. About four orbital-action settings are for adjusting the aggression level.  

There is a dust blower that always stays on and helps the user to see the cutting line clearly. So, the visible line makes it easier to which direction needs to go. This jigsaw is coupled with three more important components, including a heavy-gauge steel footplate, a multidirectional blade clamp, and a toolless blade change system. The blade clamp delivers a superior grip to the blade, and the blade change system allows you to change the blades quickly. Most of its users find it comfortable to use as it has an ergonomic top handle with a two-finger trigger. 

Besides, for steady and long cuts, the company added a lock-on button so that you can go for long yet clean cuts on wood. Simply put, this jigsaw by Bosch delivers a smooth cut with fast speed, and all types of task of cutting can be done with it. 

To get the best outcomes with cutting shapes out of wood, pair it with a premium quality curve/scrolling blade. 

Specifications: 

• 6 AMP powerful motor
• 500-3100 SPM speed variables (controlling system)
• Tool-less blade change system
• Four orbital-action settings
• Anti-vibration design
• Dust blower
• Lock-on button
• 3-4’’ stroke length

Quick information about this product

• Manufacturer By: Black & Decker
• Country of Origin: China
• Dimensions/Weight: 11.75 x 4.38 x 9.25 inches/4.6 pounds
• Type of Style: Jigsaw
• Amperage & Voltage: ‎5 Amps & 120 Volts
• Warranty:‎ 2-year limited manufacturers warranty

Considering its features, it is an ideal choice as a jigsaw with Curve Control technology. You can get rounded cuts with this four curve setting feature. Now, curve cuts aren’t so difficult with this saw. This tool is quite budget-friendly, and at the same, it also meets the optimal level of perfection and clean detailing. This corded electric jigsaw is a smart tool for cutting the shapes out of wood whatever you want. It has the ability to make beveled cuts by tilting at 45 degrees. 

In this jigsaw, there is a keyless blade clamp, and with it, this jigsaw allows tool-free blade change, so the process of insertion and extraction of the blade is no more a hassle. Moreover, it produces an extremely low level of vibrations. Yes, of course, the least vibration is important when we need to cut delicate and complicated shapes. It is also paired with an improved wire guard that makes it possible for a clear and visible sight of sight to do more accurate cuts on wood. At the same time, the adjustable shoe offers superior stability. 

Specifications: 

• 5 AMP of power motor
• 45 degrees title for beveled cuts
• Low vibration
• Wire guard with adjustable shoe
• Up to 3000 SPM 
• Curve control technology 
• Tool-free blade change feature
• Keyless blade clamp

Quick information about this product

• Manufacturer By: Shop Fox
• Country of Origin: China
• Dimensions/Weight: 12.8 x 26.4 x 15.9 inches/37.8 pounds
• Special Features: Cast iron table
• Maximum Power & Voltage: 110 Volts
• Warranty:‎ 2-year warranty

This scroll saw is featured with a 1.2 AMP motor that delivers 550 to 1650 strokes per minute. There is a variable speed feature, so you can decide what to opt for as per the project. One of the impressive features is its dust blower and dust port. They are useful to keep dust and debris out of the workplace. The added gooseneck light turns the cutting job out so much easier, even in dim light. 

This saw model can perform with plain and pinned blades as well, as any other blade. In this way, you have the flexibility to choose the blades of your choice to cut the wood in shapes. Produces low vibration, which is quite impressive, and apart from that, it can tilt 0 – 45 degrees to do beveled cuts. 

Overall, this scroll saw does its job flawlessly and in price, whether it’s expensive, but in terms of endurance and durability, it’ll stand long. However, you might need to replace the blades frequently, but still, this is no deal-breaker. 

Specifications: 

• 1.2 AMP motor 
• 550 – 1650 SMP 
• 3 – 4’’ stroke length 
• 0 – 45 degrees tilt capability 
• Corded electric type power source 

Quick information about this product

• Manufacturer By: WEN
• Country of Origin: USA
• Dimensions/Weight: 19 x 13.5 x 30 inches/‎44 pounds
• Blade Length: 9 Inches
• Power Source: ‎Ac/dc
• Warranty:‎ 2-year warranty

We find that this saw can rotate the blade up to 2300 feet per minute. And the 12 by 12 inches work table is also there, so you can work on bigger wood pieces. This table helps in accelerating the working process, enhancing accuracy while cutting the wood into shapes. Additionally, it can tilt to 45 degrees to make possible bevel cuts.

All the sawdust will dump into the dust port. You will see the fence also with it that encourages straight cuts. Taken as a whole, this woodcutter saw is sturdy and has a strong build, which means it will serve you for a longer period of time.

After in-depth research, we some of the drawbacks we noticed, such as the fence equipped with the saw isn’t well tied, and you may face issues when you use it. However, the WAN (manufacturer company) has been given the option to replace it. So, you need not stress about it. Besides, the company offers two years of warranty, so the company itself will cover those issues in case of any malfunction.

If you’re thinking of buying this one, you are making the right decision. It is quite beneficial for professional woodworkers as it can cut shapes out of wood. Overall, this is a good deal at appropriate price.

Specifications:

• 2.8 AMP motor with 2460 FPM
• Create 8’’ deep and 9’’ wide cuts
• 12 by 12 work table
• 9’’ wood saw
• 45 deg tilt capacity
• Comes with a fence, dust port, and a miter gauge
• Uses 62’’ long and 3/8 wide blades

Quick information about this product

• Manufacturer By: WEN
• Country of Origin: USA
• Dimensions/Weight: 26.38 x 13 x 14.75 inches/
• Blade Length: 16 Inches
• Power Source: Ac/dc
• Warranty:‎ Two years limited warranty

This saw blade has a variable speed that goes from 400 to 1600 strokes per minute. It is equipped with a 16 by 11’’ beveling table that can do 16’’ deep and 2’’ wide cuts and is able to work on large wood pieces. Besides, up to 45 degrees to the left, it can tilt to give bevel cuts.

Either you can use pinned, or pinless blades with this scroll wood cutting saw. A LED light is inserted in this scroll saw, which is flexible and can be adjusted anywhere on the projected wood in dim conditions. It’ll illuminate the specific work area.

Furthermore, it has a dust port, a foot-lock clamp, three blades, and extra space for blade storage. With so many other features, users will find a thumbscrew blade adapter in this saw. Simply put, for professional purposes, this scroll saw can be your good-to-go tool for cutting shapes and patterns out of wood.

Specifications:

• 16’’ scroll saw with 120 volts motor
• Variable speed options: 400 to 1600 SPM
• 16 by 11 table size
• Performs 16’’ in-depth cut-throat and 2’’ vertical
• LED light
• 0 – 45 deg bevel

Accommodates with 5’’ pinned and plain blades

Quick information about this product

• Manufacturer By: DEWALT
• Country of Origin: Taiwan
• Dimensions/Weight: 29.5 x 19.5 x 12.1 inches/‎56 pounds
• Type of Style: Scroll saw
• Voltage: 120 Volts
• Warranty:‎ ‎3-Year Limited Warranty

Dewalt specifically added a double parallel link arm that merely performs to prevent the vibration as much as possible. With this feature, the saw blade becomes capable of neatly cutting shapes out of wood without making too much noise. Besides, the featured tool-free blade clamps make certain that the user can change the blades in a couple of seconds.

Its arm design delivers accurate cuts even in complicated shapes. This is an easy-to-handle option that beginners can go with it. To make this saw highly functional, Dewalt engineered this saw with speed control, blade-tensioning, and an on-off switch. These all components are on the saw’s front upper arm for easy accessibility.  There is a dust blower too that keeps the mess away from the surface.

With the variable speed control, you can adjust the speeds between 400 to 1750 SPM. It comes with a 1.3 AMP motor that is able to go in deep for 2 inches with the 3/4 inches stroke length. To get cleaner outcomes, this is a good product to have.

Specifications:

• 20’’ scroll saw by Dewalt
• Cast-iron table
• Bevels 45 degrees to the right and left
• 400 – 1750 SPM
• 3/4 inches stroke length and 2’’ depth
• Tool-free blade clamps
• The double parallel link arm

Editor’s Experience

These best 6 saws are fantastic and worth in pricing. They work awesome when counting wood shapes. These saws are of good enough quality and have features that a beginner can also use comfortably. Its cutting style is very accurate.

Bosch JS260 Top-Handle Jigsaw: This is an extremely well-designed tool. It is very powerful and cuts cleanly and accurately. The features and adjustments are easy to use. It is on the heavy side, so freehand cutting may be a bit difficult. I bought the cutting guide for that reason.

BLACK+DECKER Jig Saw: I am a female with no experience with saws, and I was able to set this up and safely use it with no problem! I have only cut a few 2x4s for practice, but it cuts smoothly and without any problems. I can’t wait to get started on bigger projects.

Shop Fox W1713 Scroll Saw: This was my first Scroll Saw so I am not an expert and I am still getting used to working with it. The saw is well-made and does a great job with very minimal vibration. The instructions are very good.

WEN 3939 Benchtop Band Saw: The thing to remember is that all band saws should be allowed to cut at their own rate – pushing them to cut fast will never turn out well, even with the larger professional models. This is not for fast work, but it is extremely accurate, and the cut quality is very good.

WEN 3921 Two-Direction Scroll Saw: I never had used a scroll saw, but decided I needed one to cut some small 1/4″ thick maple and walnut pieces for a mosaic tray project. Primarily, I needed to precisely rip some 1/2″ strips and other approaches were not working. I chose the WEN 3921 based on affordability and others’ ratings.

DEWALT DW788 Scroll Saw: I have only used it for a couple of weeks but so far I love it. I built my own heavy-duty wooden stand for it which works very well. It is made with 4x4s, 2x4s, and 3/4 plywood top and 1/2 plywood bottom, all scraps from around the shop. The stand is very heavy to absorb vibrations from the saw.

What to Consider Before Buying Saw For Cutting Shapes Out Of Wood

For cutting the wood and making this job much easier, a saw is an essential tool that helps a lot. Although there are a wide variety of saws available on the market, among many of them, some are the best for shaping and cutting wood. This is a buying guide that will help you get your hands on the best saw for cutting shapes out of wood, and before deciding to buy one, you must consider these points to reach the best one.  

Power of Motor

Always go after a tool or saw for cutting shapes in wood that holds good power. The same goes for the saws as well. The saw’s power has a huge impact on its ability and functionality when it comes to cutting thick wood. There are saws available on the market that come with a powerful motor. However, 350 to 700 watts jigsaw can be considered to buy as it’s good at power. And to meet professional needs, go for saws that offer 1000 to 1500 watts. 

The Blades 

After the motor’s power, the second feature you need to pay attention to is the blade of the saw. You need to make sure that the saw’s blade is fulfilling the requirements and an appropriate one of your projects. The style and thickness of the blade also matter a lot. But, we suggest you not look for such a thick blade if you have the task to make curves.  There is a fact that needs to acknowledge is that the blade of the saw turns out blunt over time. They don’t always say sharpen, so you need not worry about it. 

The Rate of Strokes per Minute 

Before you place a saw into your cart, check out its stroke rate in a minute. This stroke rate varies from saw to saw. You’ll find so many options with different SPMs. We won’t encourage you to, buy a saw without knowing the stroke rate of the saw. As for making intricate cuts out of wood, SPM is purposeful. Besides, a speed variable is present to control or manage the speed of the saw. So as to get a masterpiece every time, bring these features into your consideration. However, with up to 3500 SPM, the saw is a great option to take. 

A Comfortable Handle 

A comfortable handle can make woodworkers’ life so easy. So, before choosing the one to purchase, make sure that the handle portion of the saw is comfortable enough, and allows you to use it for a longer time. Well, saws come with two types of handles, including the top handle and the barrel grip. Choose the one that suits you the most.

The Sole Plate 

Since the soleplate is supposed to be the base of the saw, therefore, it is one of the most important considerations that we cannot overlook. So, when you buy a saw, focus on the soleplate that must be solid. Because, on many occasions, you have to press the piece with force to cut the hardwood. And if the solid plate isn’t that sturdy, then the situation can be different. Therefore, always go after the soleplate made of metal that would last for longer and be unbreakable too. 

Additionally, a smooth surface base is a feature you must consider. Since the wood touches the surface, that is why the surface must not be rough. Otherwise, the wood can get scratched. 

Most Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do you cut shapes out of wood?

You’ll get to know that there is on the market three types of tool available, such as a scroll saw, jigsaw, and band saw. These three types are commonly used to cut wood into shapes. 

How do you cut irregular shapes in wood?

Well, with the use of the band saw, cutting irregular shapes in the wood is possible. Band saws are dedicatedly designed to serve for cutting irregular shapes in wood.  

Which saw is used to cut irregular shapes?

To cut irregular shapes in wood, you can use band saws. Professional woodworkers use band saws most commonly as these saws ensure to deliver of perfectly smooth and faultless cuts. 

What is the best tool to cut curves in wood?

As far as the curve cuts are concerned, the very first tool that pops up in mind is a jigsaw. A jigsaw can do so many tasks, but if the curve is gradual, then you must consider a circular saw instead of the jigsaw. 

How do you cut a shape out of plywood?

If you want to cut shapes out of plywood, still then a circular saw and jigsaw can be used. These saws are well performers not only on wood but on plywood too. 

How do you transfer curves to wood?

Put the block against the wood. The tip of the pencil must be touched by the wood. By holding pencils and block tightly together, slip them over the deck and allow the pencil to draw the curve on the wood. 

What Dremel bit do I use to cut wood?

With Dremel 561, you can cut the hardwood for up to 3/8’’ deep, and softwood can be cut to 5/8’’ deep. 

How can I cut wood without a saw?

By using a sharp knife, or drill you can cut the wood. But there will be a lack of smoothness. 

Final Thoughts

The best saw for cutting shapes out of wood is the basic requirement if you’re a woodworker. As you have decided to get the saw for cutting the shapes out of wood, choose the one that wouldn’t make you regretful. Never compromise on quality and never get settled on low-price products. It’s an investment of years; therefore, think twice before putting the saw into the cart. Your final decision must be a great deal.