How to Draw Angles and Circles

Drawing perfect circles and angles can be challenging. Carl Mueller, host of DIY Tools & Techniques, offers some foolproof techniques for drawing them with precision before cutting them with a power saw.

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Time
1 hour
Price Range
$100 - $250
Difficulty
Easy to Moderate

Step 1: Cut a Strip of Wood

Cut a strip of wood about 1/2" longer than the measurement of the radius of the circle you want to cut. Drill holes through both ends, using a ruler to make sure the holes are spaced at the end points of the radius measurement.

Step 2: Pivot the Wood, and Draw a Circle

Place a sharp point through one end at the center of the circle to act as a pivot. Put a pencil through the other hole, and pivot the piece of wood 360 degrees to draw a circle. This technique can also be used with a shelving bracket, which already has holes for your pivot point and pencil.

Step 3: Attach a Pencil to a Compass

A compass is the traditional tool for drawing precise circles, and its sharp point acts as a pivot. A pencil is attached to the other end. To set the compass to the desired radius, use a ruler to adjust the two end points to the desired length. Place the pivot in the center of the circle and move the pencil 360 degrees to draw the circle.

Step 4: Position the Compass, and Draw Angles

To make an octagon, start with a piece of wood that's perfectly square. Place the sharp point of a compass on one corner of the square, and adjust it so the pencil tip hits the middle of the square. Lock the compass in position. Use the compass to draw angles from each corner.

Step 5: Draw Lines

Using a straightedge, draw lines to connect the points where the pencil lines meet the edge of the wood. Those lines will indicate the corners to cut off.