The scroll saw is a unique tool. Some woodworkers use a scroll saw almost exclusively for their projects, but many accomplished woodworkers have never owned one.
Dating back to the mid-1800’s, the scroll saw uses a thin blade fixed between two points that moves up and down in a reciprocating motion. Think of it as a motorized coping saw. It can cut patterns and shapes out of a variety of materials including wood, hard plastic or even metal. But because of its fine blades it is better suited for decorative work than for general carpentry.
The scroll saw is versatile, fun and easy to use. It is ultimate machine for ‘fancy’ cutting because of its ability to make fine cuts and tight corners. It is also almost the only saw that can make controlled piercing cuts in the center of a work-piece. You can start a cut in the middle of a board by drilling a hole, passing the blade through the hole and then reconnecting it to the machine.
That makes it ideal for cutting intricate scrollwork, tiny models, inlay, or jewelry. You can use it to create pictures, puzzles, ornamental fretwork, 3-D figures, intarsia pictures and much more.
A scroll saw’s blades tend to be fine toothed and leave a smooth, almost finished cut. It will cut tight curves and sharp angles effortlessly. You can even mount a sanding strip in a scroll saw and use it to sand inside edges. Many scroll saw projects require little more than the saw to complete.
One technique I frequently use is to create inlays for boxes and other projects with a scroll saw. The secret is to cut the pattern from two contrasting pieces of wood at the same time at a slight angle. First, you tape two pieces of contrasting wood together and trace or glue a pattern to the top. Next, tilt the saw table. The bevel angle will vary depending on the thickness of the wood being cut, usually about 2-3 degrees. I always make test cuts in scrap pieces to be sure I have it right. When you have the right bevel angle, drill a small hole at the same angle, preferably in a tight corner in the pattern. Thread the blade through the hole, lock it into the saw and make a smooth, continuous cut, tracing the pattern in one direction. When done, the top piece will drop right into the bottom one giving you a perfect inlay.
Remember that although it’s a fairly safe power tool, all the safety rules for power tool use still apply when using a scroll saw including wearing safety glasses, good lighting and most important – thinking about what you are doing and where your hands are placed.
Scroll sawing is a fun and relatively inexpensive hobby that will give you genuine sense of self-satisfaction and accomplishment. It is a great way to introduce anyone, young or old, to the joys of woodworking.
