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A Scroll Sawing Introduction

scroll saw I can see now why Scoll Saw woodworkers refer to scroll saws as "arguably the most versatile woodworking tool". I have not done a lot of scroll saw work with the exception of some small rudimentary projects. Since we have received quite a number of requests and queries over the past couple of years on Scroll Sawing, I decided it needed at least a novice's look.
To start off with I went to the computer, opened Google and typed in Scroll Saw Patterns, then clicked on the link "images" as at Google menu option.
What I was greeted with was overwhelming. I had no idea there were so many different things that a woodworker could do with a scroll saw. The screen was filled with brilliant ideas with so many different kinds of woodworking projects from Intarsia (which is like a wooden puzzle), to small figurines like chess boad pieces, to pictures, signs, bird houses, quilt racks, boxes, accent pieces for doors and furniture, the list just went on and on.

The first thing to remember about a Sroll Saw, is that it is a saw! I saw that can cross cut and rip, just like any other saw, but that can also make very tight turns, and this sets the scroll saw apart.

Quick Tips for Using Scroll Saws Effectively

scrool saw tips1) Cutting

When cutting, only use dry wood particularly air-drying boards and carefully study grain patterns, identifying grain direction and using only those pieces in your collection that most closely match that pattern. Also ensure that when you cut, check the cut and square constantly and ensure the pattern line is visible.

One of the most important parts of the scroll saw is the foot operated on/off switch: it provides unparalleled control during cutting. By using double side tape and sanding shims during contouring, this ensures smooth transitions between pieces.

During finishing, try to avoid using worn out sandpaper on the wood as this can burnish it. While used sandpaper can be used, it should be only during sanding sharp or fragile bits.

2) 90 Degree Cutting Angles

One of the most important things to ensure during stack cutting is whether the blade is cutting straight up and down by making a short cut in a piece of wood. How?

  • Pulling the wood back from the blade, followed by
  • Placing the blade before the wood and positioning the wood piece so the cut is facing the blade.
  • Sliding the cut into the blade; if it fits, the blade is at a 90 degree cutting angle to the table. If it doesn't, the table will need to be readjusted.

How to Make and Use Scrollsaw Patterns

ScrollSaw PatternsScrollsaw patterns enable you to make designs in wood, from straightforward to complex. If you're planning on making many woodworking patterns, you will ultimately need these. You can purchase patterns on the web, but it is also possible to find them for free. Start with easy designs and move on to tougher ones as you gain experience while using a saw.

Tips for Scrollsaw Patterns !
  • Wood must be completely dry before cutting.
  • Be very careful when measuring if you are enlarging or shrinking patterns. Being off even a touch can make a massive difference in the finalized product. When working with thin wood, place a scrap piece of plywood under the wood to help avoid splitting.
  • Cut correctly, continue checking across the cutting process to be certain your cuts are accurate.
  • Drill holes from each side to avoid chipping the wood and this will create even holes.
  • Always use new sandpaper for finishing for most impressive results.
  • If you're new to using scroll saw patterns, kick off with an easy pattern. Take it slow and do not try to rush the method. Rushing may lead to mistakes that are not simple to fix.
  • As you are shaping the wood, keep the pieces next to one another to be certain the method is working well.

Scrolling sawing 101

 Scroll sawing is generally divided into two basic areas, 1) Intarsia which is like "painting with wood", that is, wood is used as a pallet and cut into various shapes like a large jig saw puzzle then glued into the shape of something in a way that the wood forms the picture ... and 2) Fret work, where a piece of wood is has internal pieces cut out to form a patter or picture.

Choosing Scrollsaw Blades

 There are many different blades on the market therefore it is not always easy to know which blade to use:

First thing to consider is what type of wood you are going to use, hard or soft wood?

Second is, what thickness is the wood?

Third, what are you going to make: just scrollsawing or more detail work with many inside cuts, which by the way is called "fretwork". When doing just outside cutting, which no longer can be done by a bandsaw, it is called "scrolling".

Q & A of Scrollsawing

 I just got my first scroll saw.

What blades would you recommend? Should I use hard wood or plywood? What can I expect for money to make with scroll sawing? Can I make a living?