Scroll Saw
The scroll saw, which is typically operated using a foot pedal, is an electric saw. It utilizes a reciprocating blade to cut, as opposed to the band saw that employs a continuous blade loop. This difference enables the scroll saw to be highly flexible and agile while cutting.
Operation
When using a scroll saw, one of the primary benefits is being able to cut from the center of your material. By cutting outward with the scroll saw, you can create a design in the middle of your wood piece.
Since the blade of a scroll saw can be removed, you can effortlessly insert it into a pre-drilled hole on your wood piece, enabling you to create intricate designs using interior cuts instead of cutting from the edge.
When cutting your wood project, you will admire the precise and fine cuts made by a scroll saw, which relies on your skill to guide the blade accurately. By moving the wood piece in a circular motion through the blade, you can effortlessly create curved shapes.
Set Up
Scroll saws are commonly equipped with a table that can be tilted, enabling the adjustment of the material’s position for making precise cuts. Additionally, a dust blower nozzle is provided to maintain cleanliness in the workspace and offer a clear view during cutting.
Scroll saws are cutting devices that can be adjusted for different speeds. This feature allows you to have control over the blade’s speed while cutting. This control ensures that you can achieve precise cuts by working at the necessary pace, whether that involves making finely detailed and intricate cuts or creating straight edge pieces.
Scroll Saw Sizes
In the event that you are considering purchasing a scroll saw, it is essential to have a grasp on the definitions and categories associated with these kinds of saws.
When purchasing a scroll saw for your workshop, it is essential to consider the throat size. This throat size refers to the length of the blade, which is measured from the table to the frame of the saw. Knowing the throat size is crucial as it determines the maximum width of wood that can be cut using the saw.
Scroll saws are available in throat sizes starting from 12 inches and going up to 30 inches. Typically, hobby woodworkers use scroll saws with smaller throat sizes, whereas larger 30″ throat machines are commonly found in commercial applications.
You have the opportunity to explore scroll saw reviews at different price ranges and with various features, enabling you to choose the most suitable option for your specific needs.
What Are Scroll Saws Used For
Scroll saws, like all other saws, possess the capability to cut wood in various ways. Accordingly, the subsequent paragraphs outline certain advantageous applications of scroll saws.
Curved Cuts
When undertaking projects with intricate aspects, it is necessary to achieve perfect curves, which is a challenging task for most power saws that lack precision in cutting curves. This might not be a significant concern in general construction projects.
The blade profile of a scroll saw enables easier cutting of curves on workpieces, making it possible to cut a curve by tracing a line. This feature is beneficial for various projects.
Lettering
If you are seeking the most effective way to cut letters out of wood and other compatible materials, it is difficult to conceive of a better option than using a scroll saw. Scroll saws are capable of easily creating sharp right angles, curves, and cutouts.
Dovetail Joints
From ancient churches to Egyptian pyramids, the dovetail joint has been utilized as one of the oldest joint techniques globally.
The process of creating this joint involves cutting two ends of materials with trapezoid ends that match each other perfectly, enabling them to fit together securely. When executed accurately, a dovetail joint does not require the use of any metal fasteners to keep it in place, only some wood glue or other adhesive is needed.
When it comes to working with small and intricate joints, precision is crucial for their proper functioning. The complexity increases further when dealing with smaller workpieces. Among different methods, a scroll saw is the ideal choice for creating dovetail joints in almost any situation, particularly for smaller pieces.
Intarsia
Intarsia is a traditional artistic technique where wooden pieces are cut into various shapes, enabling the creation of depth and a three-dimensional appearance. Every piece is cut separately and then either placed on a surface or connected with other pieces to form the complete image.
Intarsia demands extreme precision and meticulousness, and accomplishing it without a scroll saw would require resorting to the traditional method of using a knife.
Freehand Sawing For Art
When woodworkers are not using scroll saws for regular projects and contracting purposes, they often find pleasure in utilizing them for artistic endeavors. This typically entails the meticulous cutting of intricate patterns and tracings from larger wooden pieces.
Even though it requires a high level of skill, skilled woodworkers can create remarkable pieces of art by making the cuts spontaneously. However, even woodworking beginners may be astonished by their own creations with some basic planning.
Also, as previously mentioned, using a scroll saw for freehand cutting is a great way for younger individuals to become familiar with power saws and woodworking as a whole.
Cutting with a Scroll Saw
There are a variety of styles available when choosing a scroll saw to purchase, so you do have some decisions to make.
Types can be thought about step by step.
Parallel Arm
The most prevalent type of scroll saw is called a parallel arm saw. Mounted to the back of the arms of the saw, there is a motor that remains parallel to each other at all times during cutting.
C Arm
The C-arm scroll saw, which is another type of scroll saw, features a C-shaped opening positioned between the arms that is used to secure the blade between the two ends of the arms.
Parallel Link
The parallel link scroll saw, also known as a third option, is equipped with rods in both the upper and lower arms that are operated by a motor to control and secure the blade.
Ridged
The ridged scroll saw, which used to be popular, is an older model. In this type of saw, the blade is placed on the pitman’s arm. The arm pulls the blade downward, and the upper arm is used to pull the blade back upward. Due to this mechanism, tension is created on the blade. However, newer models of scroll saws have resolved this issue.
How To Use A Scroll Saw
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to cut a workpiece that requires intricate cuts within the border of the pattern.
- Turn the saw on, and trim any excessive material around the outline of your pattern. A blade with fewer teeth may be better for this if you’ve got one.
- Adjust the speed, and then begin cutting out any patterns from the inside. If you need to do an inline cut, drill a hole in the center of the part you’re cutting out, unclamp the top of the blade, thread it through the hole, re-clamp it, and then continue sawing, repeating the process as often as necessary.
- For the outside cuts, Begin by cutting lines into the border from the outside, so that the pieces come off neatly as you cut.
- Use both hands to hold the workpiece, and then carefully guide it along with the guidelines for the pattern. Make sure to listen to the blade for any screeching or difficulty cutting, and then adjust speed as needed.
- Continue cutting until the piece has been finished.
- If needed, swap out the blade for a sander and sand any part of the piece that needs to be smoother.
- Wipe off any excess dust, unplug the saw, and you’re all done.
Crucial Scroll Saw Safety Tips
When using any type of saw, it is crucial to adhere to safety protocols at all times to avoid any accidents that may result in self-injury or harm to others.
Of course, having some common sense is helpful, but there are still several steps you can take to enhance safety.
Wearing safety glasses is crucial, and it cannot be emphasized enough. When using a power saw, it is essential to wear goggles as a precaution. There is always a possibility of sawdust getting into your eye, and if the workpiece is not securely fastened, it may unexpectedly fly off the table due to the blade’s movement. It is better not to take any chances.
To prevent saw dust from entering your nose and mouth while working, it is important to wear a dust mask. If you believe that goggles alone are sufficient, that is not the case. Although saw dust may not seem significant, inhaling it regularly can cause serious harm to your body in the long run.
To ensure stability, it is crucial to make sure that the saw is placed on a stable and even surface before using it. It is important to thoroughly check the ground and the stand to prevent any possible accidents.
When you need to move the saw, it is important to avoid lifting or grabbing it by the top arm. This action can cause damage to the arm or joints. Therefore, always pick up the saw using its base or legs, and never lift it by the arm.
It is important to always have proper lighting. The clearer your vision is, the more accurate your cuts will be, and the less chance you will have of making mistakes. Avoid attempting to work in a poorly lit workshop. In case the overhead lighting in your shop is inadequate, obtain an additional light source to use with the saw.
Before cutting, it is important to check the condition of your blades. Dull or bent blades can affect the quality of your cut and pose a safety risk. Therefore, it is recommended to carefully inspect your blades for any faults such as defects, bends, cracks, or other potential issues.
To prevent fast blade wear or slippage, it is important to dry your wood before cutting as even a small amount of moisture can cause these issues. Therefore, refrain from cutting wet wood.
To ensure safety while operating a scroll saw, it is advisable to utilize a pencil with an eraser instead of your hand when performing tasks that require close proximity to the blade. This alternative method proves to be just as effective and significantly reduces the risk of accidents.
Always remember to unplug the scroll saw or any other power saw when not in use for safety reasons and to ensure the saw’s protection against potential damage caused by moisture.
Side notes
Understanding what a scroll saw is can assist you in deciding if it is the suitable saw for your workshop. If you choose to invest in this versatile saw, you will have the ability to produce intricate designs and patterns in your woodworking, metal, and glass projects.
With a scroll saw, you will experience the freedom you have been searching for and be astonished by the array of capabilities it can provide.
