The best tools for cutting arborite

Arborite is a type of laminate used for kitchen counter tops. Of the laminates available, Arborite has a Greenguard certification, as it is an indoor product that is environmentally safe. The best tools and tips to cut Arborite are the same tips that cut solid grade, or thick, laminate. Woodworking tips with carbide edges are frequently used.

A saw or knife with a carbide tip blade is best for cutting laminate. The carbide blade has a long life when cutting laminate. Arborite is thick and will quickly wear out other saw blades. Of all saw blades, carbide cuts fast and is safer to use.

A circular saw is best used to make the majority of laminate cuts. A circular saw produces a very straight cut. The circular saw also comes with a guide that clamps onto the Arborite.

A jigsaw can be used to make all cuts though the Arborite but the jigsaw can stray off the cut line. Unless you are very skilled with a jigsaw, the cut can wander and produce an erratic line. Jigsaws are typically used to finish up the Arborite cut when it is very close to the wall where the circular saw cannot reach.

Laminate shears were made to specifically cut laminates used for counter tops, cabinets and in the bath, including Arborite. The shears do not bind or chip the Arborite. There are shears that only make straight cuts and nibbling shears that can cut angles, scrolls, circles and other patterns.