Scroll saws are great tools that allow you to create intricate and beautiful woodworking projects. However, it can be difficult to get the perfect angle when cutting corners. Luckily, there are some simple tips and tricks that will help you achieve the desired effect with ease!
In general, to cut inside corner trim on a scroll saw, you’ll need to use a very thin blade and make shallow cuts. Then set the scroll saw to make shallow cuts. Next, use a guide to keeping the blade in place. Finally cut slowly and carefully.
We’ll go over how to set up your machine properly so that it doesn’t jam or skip while cutting these tight angles. Then we’ll talk about what blades work best for this type of project as well as which ones should be avoided at all costs! Follow these below steps!
How to Cut Inside Corner Trim on a Scroll Saw:
Here are some steps to follow to make the process easier:
Step 1: Set up your scroll saw properly
Before you do anything else, you need to make sure that your scroll saw is set up properly. This means ensuring that the blade is at the correct height and that the table is aligned correctly. If the blade is too high or too low, it can cause problems while cutting and may even result in a dangerous accident.
To adjust the blade height, use the screws on the side of the machine. Loosen them until the blade is in the desired position and then tighten them back up. You may also need to adjust the table height depending on the project you’re working on. This can usually be done by turning a knob at the front of the saw.
Make sure that the table is aligned properly by using a square or a straight edge. If it’s not, you may end up with crooked cuts that are difficult to fix. To adjust the table, loosen the screws on either side and then slide it into place. Once it’s where you want it, tighten the screws back up.
If your scroll saw doesn’t have these adjustments, you may want to consider upgrading to a model that does. This will make the entire process a lot easier and safer.
Step 2: Use the right blade
There are a variety of blades available for scroll saws, and not all of them are suited for cutting inside corner trim. In general, you want to use a blade with a fine-tooth count for this type of project. This will help you achieve smooth and accurate cuts.
There are several different blades that work well for this purpose, including the following:
- Proprietary blades made specifically for cutting inside corners
- High-quality standard blades such as Crown or Tenryu Gold Medal II
- Thin kerf blades, which have a narrower width than standard blades
Avoid using any type of blade that has a wide kerf. This will cause the saw to struggle and may even cause it to jam.
Step 3: Cut slowly and carefully
When cutting inside corner trim, it’s important to cut slowly and carefully. This will ensure that you make precise cuts without any mistakes. If you try to rush through the process, you’re more likely to end up with crooked or uneven edges.
It’s also a good idea to use a dust mask while cutting. This will help keep your lungs healthy and prevent any debris from getting into your eyes.
Step 4: Use a jigsaw for tight corners
If you find that you’re having trouble making precise cuts in tight corners, you may want to use a jigsaw instead. This will allow you to make the cuts with more accuracy and without any trouble.
Step 5: Sand the edges smooth
Once you’ve made all of your cuts, it’s important to sand the edges smoothly. This will help eliminate any sharp or rough edges that may cause injuries. Use fine-grit sandpaper to achieve the smoothest results.
Step 6: Apply finish
Once the trim is sanded and cleaned up, you can apply a finish of your choice. This will protect the wood from moisture and fading and will give it a nice shine. There are many different finishes available, so choose the one that best suits your needs.
Follow these tips to make cutting inside corner trim on a scroll saw a breeze. With the right blade, careful cutting, and a little bit of patience, you’ll be able to complete this project with ease. Happy scrolling!
Safety Tips:
Here are some safety tips to keep in mind when cutting inside corner trim on a scroll saw:
- Always wear safety goggles when cutting. The debris created by sawing can cause injury to your eyes.
- Make sure the blade you are using is the correct size for the project you are working on. Trying to use a blade that is too small or large can be dangerous.
- Keep your fingers out of the way of the blade. Accidental contact with the blade can cause serious injury.
- Be aware of where the blade is going to cut before you start sawing. Cutting towards yourself can be very dangerous.
- If possible, have someone else help you with the project while you are cutting. This will help ensure that your safety is maintained.
- Always unplug the scroll saw when you are finished using it. Leaving the saw plugged in can be dangerous.
By following these tips, you can safely cut inside corner trim on a scroll saw.
Some common mistakes:
Here are some common mistakes people make when cutting inside corner trim on a scroll saw:
1. Cutting the material too short.
When you’re cutting inside corner trim, you want to make sure you have enough material to work with so that you can make a clean cut. Cutting the material too short can result in an uneven or jagged edge.
2. Not using a backer board.
A backer board is a piece of wood that’s placed behind the material you’re cutting. This will help ensure a clean and accurate cut.
3. Not using enough pressure.
When you’re cutting inside corner trim, you want to use as much pressure as possible to ensure a clean cut.
4. Not using a guide rail.
A guide rail helps to keep the material straight and ensures a clean cut.
Now that you know the mistakes to avoid, let’s take a look at how to cut inside corner trim on a scroll saw:
Conclusion:
I hope that this article was helpful and you feel confident enough to try it on your own projects.
Remember, practice makes perfect so don’t be discouraged if your first few attempts at cutting inside corner trim are a little rough. With a little bit of patience and some experimentation, you will be able to master this technique in no time. Happy scrolling!
FAQs:
What type of blade do you use to cut inside corner trim on a scroll saw?
You can use a variety of blades to cut inside corner trim on a scroll saw, but a standard scrolling blade is typically the best option.
What type of material can you use to cut inside corner trim on a scroll saw?
You can use a variety of materials to cut inside corner trim on a scroll saw, including wood, plastic, and metal.
How do you hold the piece of trim when you’re cutting it?
You can hold the piece of trim in a variety of ways, but the most common way is to use a vise grip.
