Which way should the teeth face on a scroll saw?

Be sure the blade is right side up and that the teeth are facing downward so that they cut on the downstroke of the blade. The pins must fit into the grooves or slots on the blade mount.

How tight should the blade be on a scroll saw?

IF you can move the scroll saw blade with your fingers after installation and tensioning, the blade should be re-tensioned. When properly tensioned, the scroll saw blade should resist any movement when gently twisted or pushed with your fingers. A word of caution at this point is wise.

How thick of wood can you cut with a scroll saw?

A scroll saw is an excellent tool for carving or cutting materials that are fairly thin. Most blades can cut through materials up to 2 inches deep – although use caution. A particularly hard 2 inch material will wreck your blade.

How do you use a scroll saw for beginners?

The simple steps to using a scroll saw include:

  1. Cut your board into a size that you can use on your scroll saw.
  2. Cover the surface of your wood with blue painter’s tape.
  3. Use your fingernail to check the blade tension.
  4. Be sure that the blade is squared to the table.
  5. Turn the scroll saw on.
  6. Place your wood on the table.

What is the best wood to use with a scroll saw?

Cedar and plywoods are recommended as good woods to practice on while some recommend a good quality Baltic birch (Scroll Saw Forums). We actually recommend Poplar as the best practice wood because it has a more even grain than pine, meaning you can cut at an even speed without worrying about changing blades.

Why do I keep breaking scroll saw blades?

Using too much tension or too little tension while you are sawing is a leading cause of scroll saw blades breaking. Whether you are applying too much tension or too little tension, using improper tension is a surefire way to break your scroll saw blades.

How do you use a scroll saw safely?

Never wear gloves, a tie, loose clothing, a watch, rings, or jewelry when using a scroll saw. Tie long hair back or secure under a cap. Prior to starting, assure the blade guard is in place and belt guard is closed and tight. Always use the correct saw blade for the cutting task.

How thick of wood can I cut with a scroll saw?

Wood up to 3/4 inch thick is acceptable, with exceptions for thicker wood made at the operator’s discretion. Scroll saws are designed to cut delicate, complex patterns with intricacies that only a fine, small blade can accomplish. If you have to cut thicker or harder wood, a band saw is a better choice.