How to cut a laminate worktop cleanly.

How to cut a laminate worktop cleanly, using a reversible jigsaw blade: T101BR. The how and the why!
Here's the link to buy some: amzn.to/3IgL63M
Or if you are in the USA on Amazon.com its: amzn.to/3lLXX6o
As I usually add links where I have bought items I have used anyway: I have just become an Amazon Associate, so I now earn a small commission on qualifying purchases. There is no extra cost to you.
#jigsaw
#usingajigsaw
#howtouseajigsaw
#cutting
#cuttingakitchenworktop
#worktop
#reversibleblades
#jigsawblades
#nochipping
#cuttingworktopwithoutchipping

[@BecomingCreative]

Hello everyone, I've just added another video about cutting Laminate worktops, this one covers those tricky tops that you have to cut without removing. kzbin.info/www/bejne/mF6ydp6Ipbxge6c

[@lemsdarkapprentice2535]

Loads of thanks for this. If I need to make a pilot hole in the worktop first (to get the jigsaw blade in) what would you recommend about how to do this? [el'sda2]

[@BecomingCreative]

@@lemsdarkapprentice2535 I would make a hole ( with a wood drill bit) in the bit of laminate you are going to discard near the cutting edge, but not on it, then cut with the jigsaw to get to the cutting line, proceeding at a shallow angle ( not 90 degrees! ) to get to it then merge into your cutting line. You might find this video ( kzbin.info/www/bejne/oHLHi2xqpdaCjtE ) (not mine) useful to watch from 4 mins on. Ity demonstrates really clearly what I am trying to explain. Practise on an off cut first, to build your confidence. Let me know how you get on. Good Luck with the project. Make sure you subscribe. Thanks for watching.

[@williampleace7148]

Great video, thank you. You are a great communicator.

[@phils6926]

10 out of 10 for presentation. The trouble with jigsaws is that they are designed to cut curves. They are not designed to cut deep, square, straight edges. I've cut many worktops and many items of laminated chipboard, but one tool I would not use is a jigsaw, unless I wanted a curvy edge. Even with a professional jigsaw, a guide rail, a decent blade - laminate blades are available - you will not get a square cut across the length of a full sized worktop. The blade will go out of square the longer you cut, For laminate worktops you need either a circular saw with guide rail for straight cuts or a large router and jig for joints. A circular saw will cut exceptionally square, clean, chip-free edges if you work with a guide rail, use a decent saw with preferably a triple chip blade and most important of all, work from the reverse side, i.e. laminate side down. You won't need to see where you are going because the cut will be square. For really critical jobs, I would use a new blade or one that has had very little use. Chipboard is full of rubbish that will ruin a carbide tipped blade. For "masons mitres" or joints at right angles using boards that have shaped edges, the the router is the way to go. A big, powerful 1/2" router and a jig is the only way. Preferably after a training session on how to use it. The going rate for a professionally cut worktop joint used to be £50 years ago, so no need to skimp on tools or materials.

[@呠呠呠]

Hi professional! question that if I need to cut worktop which made of paper+plastic, could I use Flat Wood Bit - 40mm to cut the worktop? thanks!

[@jesshothersall]

Thank you! I've owned and used a jigsaw for many years, and had no idea you could get reversible blades that cut on the down vs the up. Brilliant piece of info :)

[@BecomingCreative]

You are most welcome Jessica. Thanks for watching. I hope you join me by subscribing, more videos on all sorts of topics coming soon.

[@TheXape]

The described solution indeed works exactly as described, but cutting from the backside with a regular blade is much less fatiguing and more controllable, as you don't have to push hard downwards on the jigsaw all the time. With a regular blade the cutting force is applied against the baseplate and the jigsaw stays firm on the material wihout need to push down. Try cutting a thick (or hard) worktop with a reverse (also called downstroke) blade and the jigsaw jumps on you up all the time. This can also be seen in this video on the begining of the cut. That is why the downstroke blade design is the exeption rather than the norm.

[@BecomingCreative]

I agree and I do think that it is time to invent a new form of support that clips underneath the cutting surface, for use when using the down cutting blade. I have suggested this before maybe one that clips round from the side and under? Perhaps we need to design this new accessory TheXape?

[@CB-pt2uo]

Does anyone else think this lady is gorgeous ?

[@mesharin4831]

Too gorgeous for a Formica video 😂

[@robertmencl9169]

She's got it!

[@jagathdocu]

😂

[@garywateridge]

Beauty and Brains,very nice.

[@elainefeather9465]

Thank you for such a clear explanation and demonstration. Thank goodness I found you BEFORE we attempted our latest project !

[@BecomingCreative]

Hi There, I've been asked by Good Neighbour exactly which blade I am using in the video. Well firstly, thank you for watching and secondly the blade I used is called star x and I think I got them from screwfix. Their website is down at the moment so I can't give you a link, but the code of the blade you want is T101BR and many different brands make them. This is the link to the Bosch blades. www.ffx.co.uk/tools/product/Bosch-T101Br-3165140012454-Reversible-Pitch-Clean-For-Wood-Jigsaw-Blades-X-5. I'll post the link to the screwfix blades when their website is up and running again.

[@mrn1695]

If you apply less pressure with your hands on the whole tool, you will get and even cleaner bottom cut. I meant that if you completed the whole cutting off in say 20 seconds, take another 20 seconds to move the whole tool while cutting all the way, the blade won't take too much stress even though it might heat up. Nice video though. Really helpful 👍

[@BecomingCreative]

Thanks Ravin. If anyone tries Ravin's method, let me know how you got on. I'm not looking underneath the countertop but would be interested to know how others got on.

[@mrn1695]

@@BecomingCreative I have experienced this myself and in the beginning I would be in a hurry to get the job done and that's how I learnt not to apply too much pressure on the cutting tool.

[@joallen9052]

Brilliant video. Thank you, very clearly explained. I am fitting my own kitchen and i was going to use a fine toothed handsaw to cut the worktop, but i think I'll be using the jigsaw instead now. Thanks!

[@BecomingCreative]

Thanks Jo. Good luck with the kitchen project. I don't know which units you are using, but you might like to check out my video on fitting IKEA units ( or others of similar ilk) just to give some thought to where all the pipes are going to go and the depth of the service space needed at the back of the units. This is the link to my one, but there are plenty of others. kzbin.info/www/bejne/mJbZh3ukgbiNjMk

[@SSUKBD]

2:45 Excellent analogy. Can you tell me the full number which Blade you used. Is it T101BR clean cut wood?

[@danzarlengo7127]

Please add this tip to your future videos. If you are cutting off more than an inch of the laminate, you can make a practice cut. If you are cutting off 2 or more inches, you can make multiple practice cuts - before you do something you can't fix. This tests the surface, the saw, the blade, the cutting guide, and it especially tests your technique. You can firure out if you are better off cutting from the top or bottom, how hard to press down on the saw, cutting speed, etc.

[@alabamahouseflippers4480]

Sometimes you have to cut counters without removing them. Nice.

[@BecomingCreative]

Why thank you Alabama, glad you enjoyed the video. Another one on drilling holes in walls ( !) coming soon.

[@Art-Sin]

The most well-spoken D.I.Y tutorial on the interweb! Thanks for the tips, i'm making a bespoke breakfast bar and my worktop is ready to be cut, i'll take these tips on. :)

[@BecomingCreative]

I'm sure it will be wonderful. Thank you for your lovely comments, I'm glad you enjoyed the video.

[@xxwookey]

It's true - the people that make DIY tutorial videos are typically rather less RP than this :-) (also vastly more male) Handmade Originals is definitiely improving diversity in this area along with giving good advice.

[@BecomingCreative]

Too kind. I'm all in favour of diversity. A fair chance for everyone.

[@gregzy789_gaming4]

Little too use painters tape on the laminate side along the edge you cut it will stop the risk of the laminate chippping also. 🙌🏻

[@DcaCo123]

Thank you for the tip, I never knew there was such a blade that cut on the down stroke. I always flipped my blades upside down but many times they would slip out of the saw grip. Thanks again and Greetings from Northern Michigan, USA. By the way, you are lovely!

[@handmadeoriginals8333]

Thank you so much Northern Michigan, what a super comment to start the New Year!

[@gabrielgavril3435]

One more thing... If you don't have the right blade for this... You can turn that board over with the important side down, that way you get a clean cut on the important side

[@melyssacollins4553]

Wonderful, the exact information I was looking for! It was difficult to find a video for a clean cut without using a table saw. Thank you for these tips 💐

[@BecomingCreative]

Many thanks Melyssa, thank you for watching. Hope you''ve subscribed, more coming soon on all sorts of topics.

[@anchoredwithinasmr6536]

you explain. it so well! I loved the faux nails and heels on the mud analogies! :D

[@BecomingCreative]

Thank you so much. Glad you enjoyed watching- love a good analogy. I'm caught up in garters at the moment, but will be back to more practical matters soon. Hope you've subscribed then you won't miss a thing.😊

[@barryorton143]

No need to rely on your eye to keep to a straight line. Just clamp a piece of batten to the worktop, parallel to the line you want to cut, 1/2 the width of the jigsaw sole plate away from your cut-line. When you're cutting, just keep the edge of the sole plate in contact with the batten.

[@BecomingCreative]

Another good tip, thanks Barry. Glad you enjoyed the video.

[@phil3332]

No coping saw needed, use a fence as a cutting guide, slow and steady let the blade do the work , and don't forget ear defenders.

[@BecomingCreative]

Thanks for the tips Phil.

[@timo5635]

Also, did you know that the base plate of the jigsaw has two sides? The side that you are not using in this video is the side that is especially made to cut laminate.

[@BecomingCreative]

I didn't know that so thank you for putting it here. Now everyone else knows too.

[@OnTheHorizonFilms]

Great, nice, an "R," reversible blade, hope I can find one here at Home Depot or Lowes, thanks

[@BecomingCreative]

HI there, glad you enjoyed the video. If you can't find a reversible blade your local shops, you should be able to get one from Amazon. Alternatively, as I think you might be in the US, I have just checked for you, ACE hardware sell them. Hope you have subscribed?

[@davef4163]

This the best lesson in cutting laminate I have ever seen on KZbin well done 👍👍

[@BecomingCreative]

That's praise indeed, thank you so much Dave. I hope you've subscribed to 'all'. The creative projects I cover are so varied that the algorithms can't keep up and will only send you ones about jigsaws otherwise. Lots more to choose from and lots more coming. Last day of January today so last Happy New Year.

[@philiphull6284]

Really helpful thankyou, but don't forget to wear a breathing mask to protect your lungs from the fine dust created by the jigsaw.

[@BecomingCreative]

Thank you Philip, and you are absolutely correct to point out the need for a mask. So thank you too. Hope you have subscribed.

[@-abheda]

how do you cut it if it has laminare on both sides, like from a kitchen cupboard? would clamping another piece of wood to the 'underside' work to have neat edges on both sides? which blade then?

[@BecomingCreative]

That's a very interesting question. I'm about to go away, but let me think about it and do some research for you. My initial thoughts are that you are correct - wood clamped to the underside would protect the underside laminate and a reversible blade will cut cleanly through the top laminate. If you try this before I do let me know how you get on. Make sure you use a new sharp blade to cut through that much thickness.

[@icewolfy1]

I believe you can also use tape to avoid the cracks.

[@BecomingCreative]

Yes, there's more than one way to crack a nut.

[@lenrichardson7349]

1. The bland cuts on the up stroke to ensure the jigsaw base plate stays in firm contact with the laminate. You run the danger of lifting if it cuts the otherway. 2. To avoid not being able to see your cut lines mark them out on the underside. 3. Do what works for you.

[@handmadeoriginals8333]

You're absolutely correct Ian, perhaps we need to redesign the jigsaw so that we can cut from the right side ( to please me) and yet still have a plate underneath to push against ( to please you and physics)- maybe a bracket that sits side ways on the jigsaw and clamps underneath the board being cut. Movement allowed for by caterpillars or ballbearings? Could this be a patent application in the making?

[@vikingcove]

Jigsaws cut upwards because they're cutting toward the table of the saw, pulling the wood/formica/plastic/whatever toward the table. If they cut downward, they'd force the saw in the opposite direction -- upward, making it hop away from the material being cut. Circular saws cut upward -- toward their tables. Tablesaws cut downward -- toward their tables,....

[@Evan-hq5dt]

And, for an example of what happens when your jig saw cuts up, see at 8:06 where the saw jumps up off the table.

[@setha9818]

Nice video. The blade cuts on the upstroke, so that the wood is pulled towards the plate by the blade, not pushing it away :)

[@BecomingCreative]

Well that makes sense. Thank you Seth.

[@jodycarlosborrageiro9588]

Good tips, Two things though, Never start a saw of any kind when its in contact with the surface to be cut... start the saw first then move it to the cutting area. and 2. don't lean into a power tool like that... if things go pear shaped it could end badly for you...

[@BecomingCreative]

Thanks for the tips!

[@meckanicall]

Just a couple of points. I don't understand why you used a coping saw to start the cut. You would be less likely to get a square cut compared to the jig saw which would have no trouble starting and would not create any damage to the laminate. I would recommend you clamped a straight edge across the worktop so the jig saw simply follows a dead straight line rather than have to "steer" the jigsaw. You would probably need the clamps used from below as they might get in the way at the start and end however. The BIGGEST problem with down cutting blades is that they can suddenly make the blade and jig saw jump up really viscously (8:06) even if you hold it down as hard as you can. It can be far worse than you experienced... totally unpredictable. At this moment you could ruin the worktop surface as the blade will dig into the surface. It is far easier to cut conventionally from the reverse side as long as you use the straight edge as a guide.. The jig saw will leave a clean cut and you'll have no chance of the jigsaw jumping out of the cut causing damage.

[@weskarcher483]

Brilliant work i must say! It's past 5 pm on Friday... beer time in Texas. Have a nice day, cheerio. 😁

[@BecomingCreative]

You make laugh Wes. Thanks for watching and enjoy that beer. Here in London I've just finished breakfast. Cheers. Hope you've subscribed.

[@tonyrobinson362]

Problem I have sink worktop in place cannot move, But i need to cut 1 inch off right hand side to fit new cooker in the jigsaw would not get right to the back any suggestions would be appreciated good vlog by the way didnt know about reverse blades.

[@BecomingCreative]

Thanks for this Tony. You raised such an interesting query that I have devoted a new video to the answer. I hope this helps you and others in the same situation. kzbin.info/www/bejne/mF6ydp6Ipbxge6c And I hope you get your oven to fit!

[@garywateridge]

A great video, well explained.thankyou

[@BecomingCreative]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for watching. Hope you've subscribed.

[@alphastarcar]

You’re beautiful! Thank you for this video.

[@BecomingCreative]

And thank you for watching. More to come soon, make sure you subscribe and you won't miss a thing.

[@jamesclarke9149]

I must apologise for my work colleague's ill mannered response to your video. Who borrowed my phone. Hoping you can accept my sincere apologie . I have looked myself at your video, well done you madam. James

[@BecomingCreative]

Apology accepted James. Glad you enjoyed the video.

[@88easyd]

She’s has explained this so well better than the carpentry teachers I have seen

[@BecomingCreative]

That's so kind, thank you. I'll be getting back to a bit of DIY soon after a couple more vids on watercolours. Creativity in all its forms.

[@MrUTuber001]

Great advice, thanks...reverse blades is a new one.

[@BecomingCreative]

Yes, I've been astonished by how many people never knew they existed. Thanks for watching, hope you've subscribed to all. A huge variety of creative projects available to view.

[@maxblack880]

Excellent video. Very helpful. And such a cute lady 🤗

[@BecomingCreative]

Many thanks Christopher, glad you enjoyed it.

[@motty147]

Who knew about downcutting blades? I'm glad I stumbled across this video. You are also far more eloquent than Tommy Walsh!

[@BecomingCreative]

You've made my afternoon Alan. Thank you. Hope you've subscribed. 😆

[@motty147]

If I ever need to make an Easter bonnet or keep my garter up, I shall do so :-)

[@BecomingCreative]

@@motty147 😉 You never know!

[@resrudeboy]

Couldnt you just score the laminate first then cut the line??

[@BecomingCreative]

You could do that, but I think that using this reversible blade gives a cleaner cut and you can also see what you are doing while you are doing it! It just takes out the guesswork.

[@billsicola6077]

Yes I agree she is beautiful and I love the sound of her accent!!!

[@Chookwoman]

This vid will be very useful for me shortly as I am fitting out my sizable utility room. I recall as a kid in the 70's , my Mom attempting to do this, and ending up with it all jagged. I always wondered how it was done correctly. Thank you for this.

[@BecomingCreative]

You're extremely welcome and well done to your Mum for having a go too. In the 1970s she would have been a trailblazer. You will carry the torch forward. I hope your project goes well, it certainly seems that you have given yourself a high bar. I'm sure you'll soar. I hope you've subscribed. Let me know how you get on.

[@jillybean1229]

Finally someone who gives good clear advice without waffle. And a fellow female Brit.! Amazing. ! I'm trying to cut laminate flooring with a jigsaw. They are almost useless. Hard to keep in line, hard to keep on the table and the blade I bought for laminate is useless. Thanks for this advice though. ONE QUESTION. What is the best speed (s) and should pendulum action be used.?

[@BecomingCreative]

Hi Jill, thanks for watching and glad you found it useful. In answer to your questions, I don't have pendulum action on my jigsaw, but I don't cut the whole thing in one go unless it's short, firstly because I don't want the jigsaw to overheat and secondly because I like to feel in control of it and be balanced on my feet, not leaning over. When restarting after pausing, I start the jigsaw before making contact (I believe the technical term is getting it spinning) and this has been recommended as the approach to take by one of the professionals on this thread (I like to think of it as taking a short run up at the next bit if you like). So I guess this is a bit like a homemade slow pendulum action. As far as speed is concerned for the laminate I have found this www.wonkeedonkeetools.co.uk/jigsaws/at-which-speed-should-you-use-your-jigsaw, which you might find useful but it doesn't mention laminate floors specifically. I guess I was going at a medium to fast speed, but my jig is quite old so I don't have actual numbers for you I'm afraid. If you have any spare tiles I would practise until you are happy with the cut. Also if the tile is moving as you cut it, I would definitely use some clamps and pad them with something rubber ( maybe some old flip flops)or cork to stop any slipping, but prevent denting. Don't try to cut a moving tile. Lots of people tape the cutting line or score it before cutting with the jigsaw. Still slipping? You could mark the cutting line underneath, flip it over and use a 'normal' blade on the 'wrong' side. That way you will have extra grip as the normal blades cut upwards towards the base plate. I preferred to use the reverse blade and cut from the top on this heavy countertop, but if your tiles are very slippy (they are smaller and lighter than a countertop) and nothing else works, try this. Let me know how you get on and don't forget to subscribe!

[@jillybean1229]

@@BecomingCreative Very helpful. Thank you for your prompt and good advice.! Keep up the good work.! 😊

[@Beakerzor]

thank you

[@BecomingCreative]

And thank you for watching. Make sure you subscribe and you won't miss any new ones.

[@Bamperz]

See I didn’t even know I needed clamps until today

[@BecomingCreative]

It's that extra pair of hands you didn't realise you needed until you sawed into your Mum's dining table- oops! Or is that just me? Thanks for watching. Don't forget to subscribe to 'all'.

[@JerryBrown-q3b]

Thanks for explaining In a way even I can understand

[@BecomingCreative]

You are most welcome. That's really encouraging. Thank you.

[@vmitodd]

What a pleasant speaking voice.

[@BecomingCreative]

I do my best. 😉 Thank you Jackson.

[@projectmustardseed857]

Thank you great tip on using the blade in reverse to prevent chipping.

[@BecomingCreative]

Thank you for your kind comment and for watching. More videos coming soon.

[@Birdman953]

I am making a sewing table for my wife and need to make a cutout for the sewing machine to be flush with the laminate top. I seldom use my jigsaw, but need to use it in this instance. I never knew about reversible blades. Thank you for the tip. I phoned my friendly woodworking tool shop and of course they have these R blades in stock. Never too old to learn new things. 😀

[@BecomingCreative]

Well how lucky is your wife! Hope it goes well. Thanks for watching. Hope you've subscribed.

[@ginacable5376]

Just found you! New subscriber.

[@BecomingCreative]

Welcome Gina. Thanks for joining, glad you enjoyed the video.

[@tjfSIM]

Makes perfect sense, thanks! Just an observation but you may want to set your camera to auto exposure as there was quite a lot of white out from over exposure. Other than that, very clearly and nicely presented 🙂

[@BecomingCreative]

That's a top tip, many thanks for sharing. I'm not a great camera buff, so all advice welcome.😊

[@IT-li3ul]

Hi,Was going to buy an expensive circular saw ,,just seen your video and was happy to go and buy an R blade for my jigsaw ,saved me a lot of money ,,so thank you . And what a lovely beautiful lady you are ☺️

[@BecomingCreative]

So pleased to help you save some cash. Hope the project works out well and thank you dear heart for the sweet comments.😊 Hope you have subscribed and will join us again.

[@kevinwelsh7490]

cut a long story short girls can saw too

[@BecomingCreative]

Oh yes we can my friend. Thanks for watching Kevin. Hope you've subscribed, I'm just working on a quirky little woodwork project now. Coming soon. Have a great day.

[@ximonx]

Router jigs are relatively cheap for doing this exact thing 👍

[@elenapimentel1093]

I feel so much more confident after seeing this! Thank you so much! :)

[@BecomingCreative]

Then my work here is done. I don't intend to turn everyone into cabinet makers, plumbers or electricans, but if I can make you feel more at ease with tools and more self reliant, more confident that you are capable of more than you thought, then I am delighted. Good luck, I hope your project turns out well and I hope you have time to subscribe and maybe watch some of my other videos too.

[@NeonBlue-nk4mn]

😂thank you for this video, very helpful. The finger nail example is painfully permanently in my minds eye. 😮💅🏻

[@BecomingCreative]

Oops. Thank for watching, but sorry for the image!

[@Dontlookback777]

I'm a builder from England and i love your production. Many thanks great help your a Angel

[@BecomingCreative]

Many thanks, you've made my day. Let's hope the Lionesses do the same!

[@joegriffin6699]

Brilliant. I'm just about to go out and fit one for a mate. Sooo glad I watched this.

[@BecomingCreative]

Thanks Joe that's really kind. Lots of tips from other subscribers here also. I hope your job goes well.

[@hassanaouinti9315]

Excellente

[@BecomingCreative]

You are one of my first comments of this New Year Hassan. What a great way to start. Thank you so much, glad you enjoyed it. Please subscribe for more- a very eclectic mix! Happy New Year everyone.

[@mesharin4831]

Very helpful Beautiful lady

[@BecomingCreative]

Thank you and you're welcome.

[@jacquelinemunden9657]

Just what I needed to know as new widow am attacking DIY with electric tools I have only seen being used not allowed to touch, so thank you.

[@BecomingCreative]

Well firstly, I'm sorry for your loss Jacqueline and secondly Brava for stepping boldly into the hitherto unknown world of DIY. We are all more capable than we realise and the more jobs you tackle the more confident you will be. Even if you make some mistakes, do not be downhearted or listen to any negative inner voices. Like pilots, give yourself a safety checklist; Goggles, ear protectors, check power off before and after use. Keep it next to your drill/ saw or whatever then you can be confident you are safe and don't have to reinvent the wheel each time. As you are a newbie, you might find it useful to keep a project diary. What you are intending to do, how you are going to do it and what tools/ equipment you need. Most importantly when you have completed the project jot down what, if anything, you would have done differently if you were doing it again. I found putting up pictures particularly satisfying as I see then end result and enjoy it every day. Here's my video on this kzbin.info/www/bejne/iZ7HfHWcjJtqqqM I have to say though fixing broken things is immensely satisfy. I'm going to do a video on this shortly. Good Luck in your next project and let me know how you get on.

[@strokedfirebirdable]

Nicely done. Good details without dragging a video out. I liked the finger analogy crude but effective lol.

[@BecomingCreative]

Many thanks indeed, glad you enjoyed it. I did toy with the idea of chopping a carrot with the jigsaw to demonstrate how easily one could lop off a finger, but thought this might have people reaching for the smelling salts!

[@octaviansol6078]

Putting me own kitchen up now and planning to cut the laminate worktop with jigsaw, happy I've seen this!

[@BecomingCreative]

Hope it goes well for you. Thanks for watching.

[@MrSteamDragon]

Brilliant, thanks. Love the throw back to Blue Peter 😄

[@BecomingCreative]

Thanks Mr SteamDragon, it was my absolute favourite programme!

[@richardteale3217]

Look love, no offence but stick to something you REALLY know about,and this is not one of them . What you say about chipping is of course true, but a jig saw is NOT the tool for a serious accurate cut . What you have demonstrated is a reasonable way to just cut a worktop to a rough length( Leaving a couple of inches long for the proper cut) so that it is easier to work with. This rough cut could also be performed with a hard point handsaw. Top quality jigsaws are a great tool , but are very often used where they shouldn’t be . Many people watching this will either own,or go out and buy, a cheap jig saw,and these are truly awful,and dangerous . Leave it to a tradesman or at the very least a competent experienced amateur.

[@BecomingCreative]

How funny that you have actually said something useful, but felt the need to wrap it in rudeness. I have never claimed to be an expert carpenter and I do not claim to be training people to become such either. This is a channel promoting creativity and nudging amateurs to become experienced by (the only route) of safely having a go themselves. I am pleased that you have noted that I have demonstrated " a reasonable way to just cut a worktop". What I was actually pointing out was the existence of a reversible blade, ( which BTW I am not being paid to promote) so that you can cut from the top and see where the blade is going. As you will see from the many comments below , lots of people, including professionals, have found this useful to know. You give good advice that it is always a good idea to buy good quality tools, if you can afford them. I am always happy to receive tips from professionals to share and some professionals are kind enough to help this community by offering their additional advice. There is no need to be offensive, I guess you are having a bad day, but I hope it improves for you. Thanks for watching.

[@petercarter6086]

Am installing kitchen workbenchs with jigsaw and found you, beautiful (voice too) and great tip on reversible blades, am off to find some 👍 I'll be back!

[@BecomingCreative]

You're very kind. Thanks Peter. Hope the workbenches go well.

[@petercarter6086]

@@BecomingCreative no problem at all, watching you the pleasure is all mine, 🙂 ..incidentally I have not been able to find said jigsaw blades as yet, what brand name are you using ?

[@yeolblt]

Thanks very much for your most helpful advice and demonstration of benchtop cutting! I'll be applying your comprehensive tips when installing my laundry cabinets 😊😊

[@BecomingCreative]

Good luck with that, I hope it goes well. Glad you enjoyed the video, hope you've subscribed to "all" so many varied creative projects available. Thanks again

[@yeolblt]

@@BecomingCreative Thank you. Following your advice and using a new Bosch blade made the cutting of the benchtop a success 😊 The basin has been installed and most of the laundry has been completed except the toe kick. It was properly done thanks to your valuable demonstration 👍🙏😄

[@daddyfixit5188]

Impossible to cut straight line especially through a work surface with jig saw even if you have god level switched on. The blade will wander off and cause a bad join. Use router with jig or rail saw. Better than that pay a chippy to fit surface. False hope ends with upset. However I do like this vid for the purpose of cutting round skirtings making angles and curves without chipping 👍👍👍

[@BecomingCreative]

Thank you, I think. Mine came out quite straight as I was very careful to look down on the blade and cutting line from above, which I think helps. Glad you enjoyed the video.

[@westingtyler1]

wow this lady is smart and cute!

[@BecomingCreative]

Hopefully that means you enjoyed the video! Many thanks.

[@CC-gf3nt]

OK @ 'I need to see what I am cutting'..I stopped. You explained exactly why the lam. chips then can't understand why Anyone (skilled tradesman) turn the work over.

[@BecomingCreative]

Yes because you can have the best of both worlds if you use a reversible blade. Clean cut and see where u are cutting on the laminate side. Thanks for watching.

[@LoreMIpsum-vs6dx]

Wow, that is a lot of excellent information packed into a 10 minute video. Can't thank you enough. All the best.

[@BecomingCreative]

Many thanks. Hope you've subscribed? More coming soon, just making a coronation hamper at the moment. Thanks for watching.

[@MinnieMouse-hb3bc]

Wonderful, just what I needed. Thanks so much for tip about R blade, will be getting one today!

[@BecomingCreative]

You're very welcome. Thanks for watching. New video coming soon, subscribe and you'll be notified.

[@NN-bv5bk]

Becsuse you just mark it on the opposite side

[@BecomingCreative]

Yes, of course you can do that, but since there's a reversible blade available that enables you to cut from the right side, that's what I prefer to do, so that I can actually see where I am cutting. Cutting from the top, so that you can see what you are doing, also avoids any wobbles if you haven't kept the blade exactly vertical. Thanks for watching.

[@davidmacgregor3471]

Excellent video, never realised you could purchase a reversable blade, mind you I do have a table saw and use a 64x teeth blade, please keep creating those videos, as just detest those American videos, that talk for hours, when you can just do it in 3x minutes

[@BecomingCreative]

Hi David, You are kind, thank you. Hope you've subscribed? - make it to 'all' as my videos are so eclectic, that I confuse the algorithms otherwise!

[@sokotofumikomi]

Thanks for video,you have given me confidence to tackle this job!!!

[@BecomingCreative]

Then mission accomplished Sokoto. That's so good to hear and exactly why I post these videos. Let me know how you get on.

[@Billy_Silva]

Thank you !

[@BecomingCreative]

And thank you Will. Glad you enjoyed it, wishing you and yours and all my subscribers a very happy and healthy Christmas.

[@alexib5248]

What about drilling a hole with a spade bit? I have a laminate countertop that I would like to install a soap dispenser in and I really don’t want to mess up my counter top as they were installed in 2021.

[@BecomingCreative]

@@alexib5248 To be perfectly honest I have only used spade bits on wood, not laminate. Your problem here is not just which cutting tool to use, but also access to the top as it is already fixed in position. You could use a sacrificial piece of mdf on top to protect the laminate layer, but difficult to see how you could clamp it in position. Also be careful you don't cut too close to the sink. Personally in your situation I would consider just mounting a bottle dispenser on the wall. Does anyone else here have any suggestions for Alex?

[@alishughes1124]

Very good video thx u and I luv the analysis to nails and stilettos thxs so much!

[@BecomingCreative]

Aw thanks Alis. You've made my day.

[@rfayz733]

this video could have been reduced to title: "How to cut a laminate worktop cleanly." content: "use R blade in jigsaw" Finished.

[@BecomingCreative]

That may be true, but like many people, I like to know WHY I should do something and that is what I have tried to explain here. Besides it's good to talk. And another thing...😄. Thanks for watching.

[@virtualspace4882]

The some peculiar reason that you do not understand is called a safety measure. You can use a downstroke blade to cut, but that will make the kickback significantly stronger. The safest way to cut is use the upstroke blade and flip the board around. Don't worry, the method you've shown here is already perfect and safe. You don't need to see the board as you're cutting it. This is work, not a show. Trust your measurement. Remember the mantra: "Measure Twice & Cut Once" 👍

[@stevelane1956]

A girl with a power tool............................WOOF!🤪

[@BecomingCreative]

www.toolstop.co.uk/blog/buying-guide/hand-saw-buying-guide

[@andrewfreeman-u1q]

great video, nice and clear with none of that stupid unwanted music ,,,no doubt somebody somewhere is going to try cutting fingernails with a jigsaw lol

[@BecomingCreative]

Oh NO!! I hadn't thought of that!! Thank you so much for your kind comments and I hope you've subscribed to 'all'. The creative projects I cover are so varied that the algorithms can't keep up and will only send you ones about jigsaws otherwise. Lots more to choose from and lots more coming. Last day of January today so last Happy New Year.

[@FlanFam-x6s]

Great video👍

[@BecomingCreative]

Too kind. Thanks so much for watching. Hope you've subscribed to all? A whole range of creative projects await.

[@dennisparker8448]

i stopped when i saw your video your very beautiful

[@BecomingCreative]

And you're very kind. Thank you. Hope you enjoyed the video and subscribed?

[@jacquelinemunden9657]

Did the work top cutting successfully. Thanks

[@BecomingCreative]

That's brilliant well done. Give yourself a pat on the back.

[@malcolmjames7388]

Well explained video , Except you didn't tell us the name and model number of the jigsaw blade , which would have been helpful, Thanks anyway

[@BecomingCreative]

Hi Malcolm, thanks for your comments. The details of the blades are in the comments below, but basically the brand doesn't matter so much as the code which is T101BR- it's the R part of it which indicates you have a reversible blade. I got mine from screwfix www.screwfix.com/p/t101br-various-material-jigsaw-blades-100mm-3-pack/6628x and there is a link below for ones manufactured by Bosch which I'll repeat here so that all the info is in one place. www.ffx.co.uk/tools/product/Bosch-T101Br-3165140012454-Reversible-Pitch-Clean-For-Wood-Jigsaw-Blades-X-5 Hope your project goes well. PS I've now changed the video description to include details of the blade, which I hope makes life easier for everyone.Thanks for the feedback.

[@malcolmjames7388]

Thanks for your reply , Most people do these videos, don't reply at all, Keep the videos coming.THANKS

[@jacquelinemunden9657]

So sorry you are not well , yes I will carry on my Utube trawl

[@noahallmond684]

You are awesome. Never thought about that.

[@handmadeoriginals8333]

That's very sweet Noah, thank you.

[@ssuswlkr]

Beautifully explained!!! I've been told several times, that "they" couldn't do a repair on my new countertop. The salesman measured wrong and didn't listen to me say I wanted it flush so that I could have a handicapped approved door entrance, plus I wanted to be able to order a new refrigerator that would fit through the door. That's why I took the breakfast bar down in the first place. Now the countertop sticks out 1 inch too far. You give me hope that I can trim it back. I'm so grateful for this video. Thank you

[@BecomingCreative]

I feel your pain! Take your time and a deep breath. There is no need to rush.Good Luck and I would love to hear from you when you have done it. If the bit you are cutting off starts to bounce as you progress, fill the gap you have cut ( so that you don't squeeze the blade) with a piece of cardboard or a lolly stick and tape it to the main piece behind the blade to keep it steady as you process to your triumphant finish!

[@Newlinjim]

Excellent.

[@BecomingCreative]

Thank you so much, that's really encouraging. Next video coming soon on how to make a low ceiling appear higher. You get to hear it here first. Hope you've subscribed.

[@lordlucan3706]

True fact....You will never get a 90 degree angle cut with a cheap jigsaw such as the one used.

[@BecomingCreative]

I think I have demonstrated that I did get a 90 degree angle cut, even with my 'cheap' jigsaw. So not quite true and therefore not really a fact.

[@lordlucan3706]

....@@BecomingCreative.... For a true 90 degree cut always use a circular saw. It's how the professionals do it.

[@TheOnlooker65]

Brilliant!

[@BecomingCreative]

Thank you so much, that's really encouraging. Hope you've subscribed. Travelling at the moment, but lots more ideas coming soon

[@MrRockstar1968]

What if the wood is laminated on both sides?

[@timo5635]

Good video. Would have liked to see a closeup of the R blade.

[@BecomingCreative]

Thanks Timo. Unfortunately you can't edit youtube vids without deleting and republishing but of you follow the link below the video in the description you should be able to see a photo. Glad you enjoyed it, hope you've subscribed.

[@AlwaysHopeful87]

Thank you.

[@BecomingCreative]

You're welcome. Thank you for watching.

[@ericvandervoort1649]

Thank you for the clear instruction! I believe for laminate flooring there's also a sawblade with its teeth in the opposite direction, as you do want to have the decoration side of the floor facing on top. What actually happens at 8.06 is that you start to cut already when the saw didn't had enough speed to cut. Use a speedsquare as a starting guide or a straight piece of wood as a guide to start your cut less troublesome, as you do not have to worry to "aim" where your cut has to start. It also appears you force the jigsaw to make the cut too fast. Let the machine do the work for you and the cut will be cleaner on the break-out side and the blades last longer. I also would like to add another safety rule: use ear protection.

[@BecomingCreative]

And thank you Eric for watching and for your kind words and helpful advice. It's so rewarding that people with so much more experience than me a) watch the videos and then b) add their helpful tips and advice as you have. I'm hoping to build a lovely helpful community here. I hope you will join us by subscribing.

[@robertmencl9169]

C hain saw has the same issue, the chain must be moving at full speed before contacting wood to cut neatly. Great video, and thank you for teaching about the R blade. Just when I thought I knew everything!

[@jacquelinemunden9657]

Are you going to do videos on looking after tools . Such as sharpening lawn mowers .

[@BecomingCreative]

I'm not planning to but I'm sure you will find helpful videos on KZbin. I'd look some out for u but Im in bed with Covid at the moment and my head is full of wool.

[@Axle_grinds]

Absolutely loving your videos - they are so helpful! You're really clear and have such a lovely manner, I could listen to you all day

[@BecomingCreative]

That's so kind. Thanks Alex. Hope you've subscribed?

[@Axle_grinds]

@@BecomingCreative But of course!