How To Cut A French Cleat

One of the most amazing parts of woodworking is the vast number of joins available to carpenters. While some joining techniques require years of practice, others, like French cleats, are simple enough for novices. So, if you’re ready to learn how to cut a French cleat, this article is for you.

How To Cut A French Cleat

The singular diagnostic feature of these cleats is the interlocking angled/sloped edges of wood (called the “bevel” in carpentry). These edges must be cut accurately; the correct tools are essential for this joint to work. 

Thankfully, there are several tools you can use to cut a French cleat:

• Table saw
• Circular saw
• Router
• Miter saw
• Backsaw

Step One: Plan And Plan Again Before Starting The Project

While cutting the joint is not too difficult, doing it correctly with the right tools takes a bit of planning. It’s always better to have more information than less before starting a woodworking project, and cutting French cleats is no different.

Start by choosing the wood you want to use for the join. While many carpenters use plywood (thanks to its durable design), it’s not the only wood (pine is great for many DIY projects). 

The purpose will dictate what type of wood and tool you need. Is it to hang a heavy shelf? A mirror? Picture frames? How long will it be?

What tools you have available is another essential consideration. Most of us can’t afford to purchase a new tool every time we start a project, particularly if we’re new to the hobby just like cutting tile with a wet saw.

Step Two: Measure And Mark Your Wood Before Cutting

As part of the planning, you’d have decided if you needed one or many cleats from your wood. Ensure that you measure and mark the wood according to your needs. Using a pencil or sharpie is a great way to create a visible line to follow.

These joins are usually straight, so using a straight-edged tool (like a ruler) to draw the line would ensure maximum accuracy.

Placing masking (or other adhesive) tape over the line you intended to cut is a fantastic method to prevent the wood from splintering/cracking as you cut.

Step Three: Cutting A French Cleat 

While the exact cutting method differs between tools, the principle is the same across the board. Anchor the wood firmly either in the tool or on a work table. 

Then slowly cut along the line according to the tool’s specifications.

Below we’ll examine the steps to cut these joins with a circular and table saw.

Using A Circular Saw To Cut French Cleats

Place your board on a table surface. Ensure there is a foam block or other material below the board that you don’t mind cutting into. 

Setting up a circular saw is easy (depending on the model). Release the screw that locks the blade’s pitch, adjust the blade to the correct position/angle, and then lock it into position. 

Next, you’ll need to measure the distance between the saw blade and the circular saw’s base plate (the metal rectangle surrounding it) and mark it on the wood. I.e., the blade should sit on the line you drew, while the base plate should run along the new line you intended to draw.

Attach a metal ruler or straight edge along the base plate line. This attachment will act as a guide, assisting you in cutting straight.

Congratulations, you’re ready to cut! It’s always a good idea to practice on a test/scrap piece of wood before cutting into the actual item, especially if you’re not used to using a circular saw like cutting thick wood.

Once you’re back on the actual piece, place the saw against the guide and cut through the line. Ensure that you cut slowly, with a steady hand, to prevent sudden movements which may break the wood/cause you to cut skew.

Make an additional pass to ensure the cut is through.

Using A Table Saw To Cut French Cleats

A well-maintained table saw (also called a circular saw bench) is a practical tool if you pursue woodworking as a hobby. Just by cutting a straight edge with a table saw, is a starting point.

Once you’ve marked the wood, place it on the table. To accommodate your wood, you must adjust the guide/fence to the correct width.

Next, set your saw blade to the correct pitch (most table saws have a handle you adjust). This process is easier if you have a digital angle finder; however, a speed square and some fine-tuning will also work.

Before cutting the intended piece, send one or two offcuts through the saw to test the blade. Once satisfied, push the actual plank through the saw (using the appropriate tool).

Alternative: you can also use a bandsaw, which follows the same principle.

Step Four: Neaten The Cut Area By Sanding It Down

A useful joint is a clean one. After cutting, ensure the wood is smooth, without splinters, chips, etc. You can use sanding paper to smooth down any rough edges. 

Additionally, smoothing the cut area ensures the longevity of your join. If you leave the edges sharp, they may press into one another and cause damage. By smoothing the cut edges, you improve how the wood fits together.

Once you’ve finished cutting, remember to remove the adhesive tape.

Step Five: Test To Ensure The Cleat Is Correct

Try fitting the pieces together after cutting and sanding the wood. Observe them for defects (where they are not flush). Any minor gaps are easily sanded out of the wood; however, if something goes completely wrong, you may need to start again (it happens sometimes).

Once satisfied, connect the base cleat to a solid structure (like back in the vice) and test the join. If it looks right and holds, then the cut is correct.

Other Methods For Cutting French Cleats

While table and circular saws are ideal for cutting French cleats, there are several other methods and tools if you don’t have either of those saws.

Using Other Power Tools To Cut French Cleats

A miter saw and jigsaw are fantastic power tool alternatives and follow a similar process. 

Adjust the blade to the correct angle once you’ve marked out where the join must be. Secure the board and ensure you cut straight along the line.

A jig saw is slightly more tricky to use, and you’ll need to be extra careful not to cut too quickly, lodging the blade in the wood.

The best miter saw is convenient, provided it has an adjustable blade. If the wood is too long for the blade, you’ll need to:

• Cut through one side
• Turn the board around and upside down (or adjust the blade)
• Cut through the opposite side

Using A Hand Saw To Cut French Cleats

While significantly less practical than power tools, if you only have hand tools, those will work, too (particularly a backsaw).

Start by marking off where to cut along the top and side of the wood (use a speed square to give the correct cut trim angles). 

Place the marked wood in a bench vice vertically (the side of the wood facing upwards). 

Put your saw on the angled line (on the side of the wood) and start cutting. Use extreme patience when cutting to ensure a straight cut like reciprocating saw.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Circular and table saws are the two most popular methods of cutting French cleats. Thanks to their adjustable design, they make quick work of the 30 to 45° angle required for these joins. Although a backsaw is feasible, it takes longer and may not be straight.