145 Re: Scrollsaws
Description
This article is from the Woodworking FAQ Collection 5, by multiple authors.
145 Re: Scrollsaws
From: stern@nssdca.gsfc.nasa.gov (Dave Stern)
Date: 12 Sep 90 17:35:11 GMT
Regarding scrollsaws. I originally got mine on a whim as it was one
of the few tools I didn't have. Now it's nearly the only tools I use.
The trick is getting a good set of patterns. Look in Klockits
catalog. They sell one exceptional book of scrollsaw patterns
alongside another one describing scrollsaw techniques and history (the
latter is a ripoff) as well as several good clock patterns for
scrollsaws Additionally, there are several books around of
much simpler patterns; mainly childrens toys, whirligigs etc.
My first scrollsaw was a dremel. It's the cheapest one on the market,
($70.00 or so) and had stamped metal construction. The one advantage
it had is that it took REAL short, narrow blades (3" long) which track
exceedingly well and could be replaced in seconds.
After getting seriously into scrollsawing, I shopped around and got
another. Here's what I found out: Delta is definitely the best
however you can get similar ones for 2/3 the price made by off-brands
(Japanese or European imports available thru AMT and Trendline among
others). Both of these are cast iron construction, have adjustable
tension frame and can adapt to pinless blades. In fact, if you get
into the really fine scrollsawing projects, try putting a marquettry
blade in. It works surprisingly well. I wouldn't mind having an
airpump on it to blow away the dust but it's not worth the extra bucks.
Easier to make your own. A minimum (comfortable) throat depth is about
15" as many toys and such require at least that much however I don't
consider going from a 16" to an 18" a true upgrade. After all, if
you get into trouble, just pop out the blade and put it back in
backwards. This also points out another required feature; being able
to change blades quickly.
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