Racehorse and Handsaw Scroll Saw Patterns (2024)

FAQs

What advantage does a scroll saw have over a hand saw? ›

Advantages of a Scroll Saw

This makes it a versatile tool for different types of projects. Easy to use: Unlike other saws, a scroll saw is fairly easy to use. It doesn't require a lot of physical strength and can be operated with one hand, leaving your other hand free to hold the wood in place.

There are several types of scroll saws. The most common design is the parallel arm, in which a motor is attached near the back of the arms and the two arms always remain parallel to each other.

Using clear packaging tape removes the need for sanding, or using adhesive remover to remove residual. Some scroll sawers place strips of tape directly on the surface, and glue the pattern onto the tape. Other scrollers layer the tape by adding an extra layer of tape on top of the paper template.

KEEP HANDS AWAY FROM CUTTING AREA. Do not reach underneath work or in blade cutting path with hands and fingers for any reason. Always turn the power off. ALWAYS USE A CLAMP to secure the workpiece when possible.

The saw teeth must always point downwards in the direction of the workpiece.

MDF and plywood materials have resins/glue that shouldn't be ingested, so it's best to stick to hardwoods that are dense, and won't break easily if they are dropped and create sharp edges or tiny pieces. In this application, we recommend sticking with maple, birch, oaks or ash.

Capacity: Scroll saws with a 16- or 18-inch capacity are ideal for most home users. Depth of cut determines the thickness of material you can cut. Most scroll saws offer a depth of cut between 1 ¾ and 2 ¼ inches.

Hardwoods That Make A Great Scroll Saw Material

Hardwoods are good for keeping the shape of a pattern, for this purpose both Ash and Maple woods are favored. Ash and Maple are not considered best for beginners since they require some degree of skill to cut.

A scroll saw is best for intricate, fine detail work requiring high precision, whereas a band saw is more versatile and suited for a wide range of woodworking tasks, particularly those involving larger, thicker material and requiring long straight cuts as scroll saws can be harder to make straight cuts.

When operating a scroll saw always place the material being cut flat against the table. Do not attempt to cut free-hand in mid-air. Don't cut stock that is not flat on the bottom without a jig. Do not start the machine with the blade in contact to the work piece.

How can I improve my scroll saw? ›

Regardless of the type of scroll saw, cutting at a steep angle can look more daunting than it actually is. The learning curve, fortunately, is a quick one, and the reward for mastery is entry into the realm of the stacked ring bowl.

Scroll saws have a thin blade that allows you to cut intricate curves and corners. For advanced users, this means inlay work, musical instruments, dovetail joints and other types of joinery.

Scroll saws cut through wood, plastic, brass and copper. Use a scroll saw to perform intricate and detailed interior cuts. Scroll saws look similar to band saws but do not have continuous blades.

A scroll saw is best for intricate, fine detail work requiring high precision, whereas a band saw is more versatile and suited for a wide range of woodworking tasks, particularly those involving larger, thicker material and requiring long straight cuts as scroll saws can be harder to make straight cuts.