Regardless of one’s skill level, a scroll saw proves to be an indispensable tool for a myriad of woodworking projects. Armed with the right scroll saw, I’ve crafted intricate designs and executed incredibly accurate cuts with ease. To help you hone and sharpen your skills with this invaluable tool, I’ll share various scroll saw projects that have enhanced my expertise over time.
Scroll Saw Projects
What Is a Scroll Saw?
A scroll saw is a power-operated saw that you can use to make intricate designs on materials like metal, wood, etc. A scroll saw including the highly reliable Dewalt DW788 comes with a sharp blade that allows you to cut expertly and more conveniently.
Although it shares a similar design with a bandsaw, using a scroll saw gives you the edge. You can adjust the reciprocating blade through the drilled hole to make better interior cuts. You can also make more detailed curves with it, thanks to the teeth on the blade.
There are three types of scroll saw: the parallel arm, C-arm, and the parallel link.
I’ve found that the parallel arm configuration is quite popular, comprised of two arms spaced apart with a motor situated at the back. This setup provides the stability and versatility needed for a wide range of applications due to its inherent design.
The second type, the C-arm variant, has a c-shaped arm. The blade is mounted in the middle of the two arms. Meanwhile, the parallel link has a motor that pushes the rods in the upper and lower arms to make cuts. The arms in the parallel link hold the blade.
Project Ideas You Can Make With a Scroll Saw
There are tons of project ideas that you can start with. These projects range from simple to complex, 2D patterns to 3D patterns. Besides, these patterns are easy to make. However, you will likely invest more time in doing the complex ones. Below are some cool project ideas you can make with a scroll saw.
1. Jigsaw Puzzles
Crafting jigsaw puzzles is among the most straightforward projects to dive into. I’ve always found them simple yet delightful to create. Using a scroll saw, I’ve designed puzzles ranging from just a few pieces to thousands of intricate ones. And given that jigsaw puzzles come with so many interlocking parts, my scroll saw has been invaluable for achieving those finely detailed cuts. But a word of advice from someone who’s been there: before you even think about making that first cut, always ensure you have a solid pattern as a foundation for your work.
2. Toys
Designing toys with a scroll saw is another excellent woodworking project idea even for beginners. Like the jigsaw puzzles, the patterns are seamless to cut, and you don’t need so much wood material to make a great wood toy. With a scroll saw, you can make toy boats, animals, airplanes, wood mobile phones, etc. However, you need to ensure that you choose a wood that can withstand pressure. Most toys are subject to abuse when it falls into the hands of children, but a durable wood can withstand that.
3. Wooden Ornaments
This is another project idea that won’t take so much wood material. You can design the ornaments according to your preference, by making the shape spherical, squarely, or rectangular.
4. Picture Plaques
Picture plaques are one of the easiest projects you can do as a beginner. It is also a profitable project to create and sell online. You don’t need to make so many intricate designs, but if you want, remember to select a pattern before you begin cutting.
5. Inlaid Leaf Jewelry Box
Crafting an inlaid leaf jewelry box stands out as one of the most elegant projects I’ve undertaken with a scroll saw. Engaging the inlay technique, I’ve been able to execute not only perfect but also artistically precise cuts on the box, adding an unmatched level of sophistication and finesse to the finished piece. The process, while delicate, has allowed me to produce work that is both beautiful and intricate in design.
The inlay chainsaw cutting technique means cutting different designs in patterns and inserting them on top of the wood material. In this case, the pattern on the jewelry box is the leaf. However, you cut perfectly, and the finish will be fantastic.
6. Coffee Table
The coffee table uses the same inlay technique as the leaf jewelry box. However, you can use a different scroll saw pattern other than the leaf. When designing this project, remember to use the right blade and tilt the scroll saw to the right angle so that you can get the perfect cuts.
Safety Reminders
A scroll saw such as the powerful WEN 3920 is like any other cutting tool—using it is risky. You need to fully understand how it operates before you can begin to use it.
When using a scroll saw, you need to abide by some woodworking safety rules. If you are just getting started, here are some safety reminders you must keep at the back of your mind.
First, go through the manufacturer’s manual carefully to get acquainted with what you need to do before operating the machine or a Porter-Cable PCB375SS scroll saw. You need to ensure that you set the scroll saw properly.
Also make sure that you choose the right blade according to the project you want to work on. The right blade enables you to cut smoothly and evenly without chips. In addition, remember to tension the blade properly.
Before you start your project, keep your work area or shop clean. And lastly, always remember to wear safety equipment. This includes wearing a pair of safety goggles, gloves, and overalls [1].
FAQ
What kind of wood should I use for a scroll saw?
You can use cedar, Baltic Birch, Poplar, and plywoods for a scroll saw. These woods are good candidates to use with a scroll saw, as they have even grains that you can cut rapidly.
How thick can you cut with a scroll saw?
A scroll saw can cut wood materials to a depth between 1¾” and 2¼”. However, the cut depth depends on how thick the wood material is and the scroll saw’s capacity.
(If you want to make a profit out of these projects, building your brand is important. Here are some ways on how to sign woodworking projects for your brand building)
Conclusion
As a beginner or a professional, there are several scroll saw project ideas that you can start working on immediately. I compiled these project ideas that are fun to design, and some of them do not even require massive wood materials.
Once you have become good at your craft, you could do beautiful woodworking projects that you can offer for sale. In the end, you are not only improving your woodworking skills but making some cash while having fun.
For other related woodworking projects, you can also check out our list below:
You've probably seen his down-to-earth wisdom in USA Today, Bobvila, Family Handyman, and The Spruce, where he has shared commentary and guidance on various woodworking topics.
Robert is the brain behind Sawinery, where he aims to share tips, tricks, and a passion for all things carpentry.
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