jigsaws

Jigsaws refer to two related objects in craft and carpentry: a jigsaw puzzle, a picture made of many interlocking pieces, and a handheld power tool designed to cut irregular curves in materials such as wood, plastic, and metal. The two senses share a name but serve different purposes: one is a pastime and educational toy, the other a cutting instrument used in fabrication and construction.

Jigsaw puzzles originated in the 18th century. In 1760 John Spilsbury, a London cartographer, mounted a world map on hardwood and cut along the borders of the countries to create a puzzle meant for teaching geography. Puzzles expanded in the 19th and 20th centuries, produced by cardboard manufacturers and, later, interlocking wood. Modern puzzles vary in piece count from a few dozen to thousands and in cut style, from traditional edge-to-edge pieces to more irregular shapes and image formats.

The power tool jigsaw uses a parallel or bevelable base plate and a reciprocating blade that moves up and down. It is driven by an electric motor with variable speed and, in many models, orbital action that adds an elliptical blade motion to improve cutting speed in soft materials. Common modern blades are T-shank type. The tool is used for curved and irregular cuts, bevel cuts up to about 45 degrees, plunge cuts, and cutting patterns in woodworking, cabinetry, plastic, and thin metal, with appropriate blade material and feed rate.

Safety and handling: wear eye and hearing protection; clamp the workpiece; keep fingers away from the blade; let the blade reach full speed before cutting; be mindful of kickback and dust; use dust extraction or a shop vac.