When cutting curves on a band saw, which type of cuts should be used?

When cutting curves on a band saw, relief cuts are the preferred technique. Relief cuts refer to the practice of making small, strategic cuts within the waste area of the material before making the main curve cut. These cuts relieve stress and reduce the amount of material being removed at a given time, allowing for better control and a smoother finish on the curved edge.

This technique is particularly useful because it helps prevent the blade from binding, which can cause inaccurate cuts or potential damage to the blade. By using relief cuts, the band saw can navigate the curves more easily, ensuring that the final shape meets the desired specifications without compromising the quality of the cut.

In contrast, other cutting methods, such as straight cuts, incremental cuts, and bevel cuts, are not specifically designed for curved patterns. While they have their applications, they do not provide the same level of precision and control necessary for effectively shaping curves on materials.