What’s the best way to cut straight lines with a handsaw?

Guide to Cutting Straight Lines with a Handsaw. 

Cutting straight with a handsaw can feel like trying to draw a perfect circle freehand; frustratingly impossible! But fear not, brave woodworker! With these tips, you’ll be slicing straighter than a laser-guided baguette.  

Step 1: Mark Like a Perfectionist (But With More Drama)

  • Measure twice, cut once - or cry forever.
  • Use a square or set square (not the geometric kind) to mark your line.
  • Draw a dark, juicy line: like you’re outlining a treasure map.

Optional: Add tiny arrows pointing to "CUT HERE" for moral support.  
 

Step 2: The "I’m Not Left-Handed Either" Grip 

  • Hold the saw like you’re shaking hands with a fancy robot.
  • 'Dominant hand' on the handle, 'other hand' guiding the blade.
  • 'Stand like a superhero' - feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent.
  • Channel your inner lumberjack (flannel shirt optional but encouraged).  

Step 3: Start with a "Knife" (Not a Murder Plot) 

  • The first cut is the deepest (thanks, Sheryl Crow).
  • Use a knife or chisel to notch the edge of your line. This gives your saw a tiny groove to sit in. No more "Oops, my saw slipped!" moments.  

Step 4: Slow & Steady (Fast cuts are for horror movies).

  • Start with short, gentle strokes, let the saw do the work. 
  • Once it’s seated, go for long, smooth strokes. 
  • Look at the line, not the saw** (it’s like walking... stare at your feet, and you’ll wobble).  

Step 5: Follow-Through Like a Golf Pro

  • Don’t stop halfway unless you enjoy splinters.
  • Keep sawing past the end of the wood for a clean exit.
  • If you stop mid-cut, the wood might splinter your project (and your heart).  

Bonus: The "Oops, I Messed Up" Recovery

  • Wood filler is just fancy putty for regrets.
  • If your cut wanders, **stop immediately** (like realizing you’re texting the wrong person). 
  • Flip the wood and cut from the other side...Two imperfect cuts can make one *kind of* straight one.
  • Sand the hell out of it and pretend it was intentional.  

Check out this fabulous hand saw (paid ad)

Now go forth and **saw with confidence** (or at least with fewer tears). 😆  

TL;DR: Mark well, start slow, follow through, and blame the saw if it’s still crooked. Happy sawing! 🔨✨