Scroll sawing is a great way to create detailed and intricate pieces from wood.
If you’re looking for a way to cut long pieces of wood, scroll sawing is the perfect option. You can make cuts that are precise and accurate, and you don’t need a lot of experience to get started.
With the right tools and some practice, you can start creating beautiful pieces of art with your scroll saw. This guide will show you how to cut very long pieces on your scroll saw, so you can start making the projects you’ve always dreamed of.
How to cut very long pieces on the scroll saw:
Here are some steps to help you cut long pieces on your scroll saw:
1. Measure the length:
Before you start cutting, measure the length of the piece you want to cut. This will help you plan your cuts and make sure that the piece fits correctly.
2. Mark the line:
Use a pencil or marker to mark the line where you want to make your cut. You can use a straight edge if necessary.
3. Clamp the wood:
If possible, clamp the wood to a workbench or other surface so it doesn’t move while you’re cutting. This will help ensure accurate cuts.
4. Cut slowly:
When you’re making a long cut, it’s important to cut slowly and carefully. This will help prevent mistakes and keep your blade from breaking.
5. Use a backer board:
If the piece you’re cutting is very long, you may want to use a backer board. This is a piece of wood that’s the same size as the piece you’re cutting, and it will help keep the saw blade from binding.
6. Keep the blade parallel:
Make sure that your saw blade is parallel to the line you marked on the wood. This will ensure accurate cuts.
7. Use a featherboard:
A featherboard can help keep the wood against the fence and the table, which will help produce precise cuts.
8. Finish the cut:
When you reach the end of your cut, hold the wood firmly against the fence and table and finish the cut. Don’t try to pull it off of the blade.
9. Remove the waste:
Use a chisel or coping saw to remove the waste from your cut. Be careful not to damage the wood.
10. Sand the edges:
Once you’ve removed the waste, sand the edges of the piece to smooth them out. This will help prevent splinters and make the piece look nicer.
That’s how you cut very long pieces on a scroll saw! With these steps, you can easily create beautiful pieces of woodworking art. Practice a few times and you’ll be able to do it like a pro.
Safety Tips:
Here are some safety tips to keep in mind when cutting very long pieces on a scroll saw:
Make sure the blade is sharp and in good condition. A dull blade can cause the wood to splinter, which can lead to injuries.
Always use a push stick when cutting long pieces. This will help keep your hands safe and give you better control over the piece.
Keep your fingers clear of the blade at all times. Even a small nick can cause serious injury.
Make sure the wood is securely clamped to the table before starting to cut. This will help prevent it from moving around while you’re working.
Take your time when cutting and be careful not to apply too much pressure. If you’re forcing the saw to cut, it’s likely that you’re going to damage the blade or the wood.
Always wear safety goggles when using a scroll saw. Chips and sawdust can fly up into your eyes and cause serious damage.
By following these tips, you can safely cut very long pieces on a scroll saw. Thanks for reading!
Some common mistakes:
Here are some common mistakes people make when cutting very long pieces on scroll saw:
1. Not measuring the length of the cut beforehand. This can result in inaccurate cuts and wasted wood.
2. Not clamping the wood down securely before beginning to cut. This can cause the wood to move during the cutting process, resulting in an inaccurate cut.
3. Cutting too fast. When cutting a long piece of wood, it’s important to take your time and make accurate cuts. Cutting too quickly can lead to mistakes and inaccuracies.
4. Not using a backer board. A backer board is a piece of scrap wood that is clamped to the workpiece behind the cut line. This helps to keep the wood from splitting as it is being cut.
5. Not using a saw blade that is appropriate for the thickness of the wood. A blade that is too sharp or not sharp enough can cause problems when cutting very long pieces of wood.
6. Cutting on the wrong side of the line. This can result in an inaccurate cut and wasted wood.
7. Not supporting the end of the piece being cut. This can cause the wood to break or split as it is being cut.
By following these tips, you can avoid making common mistakes when cutting very long pieces on the scroll saw and ensure accuracy and precision in your cuts.
FAQs:
Which blade is best for long cuts?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. It depends on the thickness of the wood you are cutting and the type of blade you are using. A sharper blade will make cleaner cuts, but it can also be more dangerous to use. A duller blade will be less likely to cause splitting or breaking, but it may not produce as clean a cut.
How do I prevent the wood from splitting when I cut it?
You can prevent the wood from splitting by using a backer board and/or a saw blade that is appropriate for the thickness of the wood. You should also take your time when making cuts, and avoid cutting too quickly. If possible, try to cut on the correct side of the line and use a supporting hand or device to hold the end of the piece being cut.
Can I use a jigsaw to make long cuts on wood?
While it is possible to use a jigsaw to make long cuts on wood, it is not recommended. A jigsaw is not as precise as a scroll saw and can cause the wood to split or break.
Conclusion:
Scroll sawing is a great hobby, and with the right techniques, it can be easy and fun. In this article, we showed you how to cut very long pieces on the scroll saw.
We hope that you will try out these techniques and create some beautiful projects of your own. Have any questions? Leave them in the comments below!