Cutting perfect circles on the band saw can be a challenge without the right setup. That is where a simple circle cutting jig makes all the difference. This project was featured on The Woodsmith Shop television show in the episode “Our 5 Favorite Shop Jigs.” In this video excerpt, Dave walks through the general construction and use of the jig so you can see exactly how it works.
Why Build a Circle Cutting Jig A circle cutting jig turns your band saw into a versatile tool for making clean, accurate circles of almost any size. Whether you are building tabletops, bases, trays, or decorative projects, this jig helps you achieve consistent results with ease. Unlike freehand cutting, the jig provides control and repeatability, so every circle comes out smooth and true.
Key Features of the Jig The jig is built on a phenolic plywood base that provides a durable, low-friction surface allowing your workpiece to rotate smoothly during the cut. An adjustable pivot pin mounted on a heavy-duty aluminum bar makes it possible to cut circles up to 38 inches in diameter. To make setup simple and reliable, the design also includes a stop system that aligns the pivot pin with the front edge of the blade every time.
The design is straightforward, and you can build the jig in just a weekend using common shop materials and hardware. The jig is easy to set up too - just align the pivot, and cut flawless circles with confidence.
