To learn how to make a french cleat without a table saw, you need to work with a circular saw, a miter saw, a band saw, or a hand saw while cutting with any of the tools you have chosen at a 45-degree angle.
There are other means that you can use, such as a scroll saw, a panel saw, or similar tools, but we’re covering the top four we recommend. Though if you do decide to go back to using a table saw after this, we understand. Just remember to learn how high a table saw should be before beginning so you can both use it for woodworking and as a platform to escape the kids for a while.
Of course, you can find out more methods with a deep search as well, and to help you out with both figuring out how to make a french cleat without a table saw, we recommend watching a video:
Being able to cut a french cleat without overloading your table saw will make your projects that much easier to complete! That’s especially true since this item is useful in securing your artwork, heavy mirrors, or similar things from the wall.
Method #1: Circular Saw To Cut French Cleat
Although making a french cleat with a table saw is the most commonly used or most popular method, do you know the easiest way of making a french cleat? Well, making a french cleat using a circular saw is the answer.
A circular saw is a power saw with a sharp metal blade; it is not only suitable for cutting long pieces of wood but would also make straight cuts after getting settled at an angle of 45 degrees.
All you have to do is mark the wood with a pencil by drawing a straight line. Remember that a circular saw is not an accurate tool. Hence, a guide rail will be better to help you make straight edges.
On the other hand, if this seems too hard and you’re insistent on using a table saw to cut the french cleat but only have a circular saw at hand, we suggest turning the circular saw into a table saw.
Method #2: Miter Saw
Another tool you can use for making a french cleat is the miter saw. This saw works by using a spinning blade perfect for trims and crosscuts. It is an ideal tool for making beveled edges; you just have to set the saw at an angle of 45 degrees.
Although you can use a miter saw to cut pieces of any size, it’s better to clamp them up when it comes to short ones.
And if you’re missing a miter saw table to work with, then don’t worry – you can build a miter saw table yourself as well.
Method #3: Band Saw
Another tool you can use to make a french cleat is a band saw. This tool is perfect for cutting curves. The most common use of a band saw is working with irregular angles and thinner pieces.
Make an angle of 45 degrees, hold the pieces with a clamp while you get the saw ready, place the object beneath the blade, and start moving it slowly.
Still, it’s not as perfect as cutting with a table saw and fence, and if you get the chance to work with the tool, don’t regret doing it. Instead, learn how to adjust table saw fence (especially DeWalt table saw fence).
Method #4: Hand saw
Last but not least is making a french cleat using a hand saw. It is not one of the easiest methods, as it takes a little more effort, but it is simple and convenient if you have no other tool at hand.
- Use a speed square to make an angle of 45 degrees on the wood.
- Draw a straight line of the wood and place the saw over it.
- Pull and push the saw to cut thoroughly and cut the piece straight.
FAQs
What angle should the French Cleat be made at?
A French cleat is usually made at an angle of 45 degrees. If the angle is the same on both the wall and the thing, it will be easier for you to remove or reconfigure the objects. If you have to hang an object, you must complete both cleats in one direction.
Cutting an angle on a table saw might be difficult, though, which is why we’ve also created a beginner’s guide for cutting 45-degree angles with a table saw.
What Precautions You Should Take While Making French Cleats?
Whatever method you use, take all the necessary precautions to prevent accidents or hazards. Hence following safety tips are required to be taken:
- Wear safety gadgets before working with power tools by wearing eyewear, a face shield, latex gloves, and a safety suit.
- Unplug the saw when not in use or while changing or installing it.
- Make sure you check all the wood pieces before cutting and ensure that the wood doesn’t have any nails or screws that can be harmful.
Our Final Thoughts
In a nutshell, the French cleat is a fantastic way to secure your objects. These handy tools are the best for hanging mirrors, cabinets, and artwork on your wall. Not just this, the ability of the french cleats to get removed and reconfigured again makes them ideal for storing tools in a workshop. You can also learn more about french cleats specifically if you want a detailed description of what french cleats are and why they’re important.
Hence, this blog is a guide to teach you How to Make a French Cleat without a Table Saw and includes tools for making french cleats other than a table saw. Whatever method you use, take necessary precautions and use the right kind of wood at a recommended angle.
