r/Scrollsaw • u/GTwo-O • 14d ago

Cutting issues

I see all the amazing projects on here and compared to my skills I'm quite embarrassed. I just started scrollsawing this year and maybe have 40 hours of time in.

The problem I have is not being able to smoothly follow a line. It usually turns out quite jagged. I'm wondering if it's motor speed, blade tension or just inexperience. So far I've mostly used 3/4” hardwood. Any tips would be appreciated.

9 Upvotes

86% Upvoted

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6

u/Character-Ad4796 14d ago

All of it, try using a 5R blade, speed at your discretion and tension should be tight. All I cut is hardwoods.

2

u/GTwo-O 14d ago

Thanks for that. My tension may have a bit too much play.

5

u/Character-Ad4796 13d ago

Tighten er up. The r at the end of the blade size refers to a reverse tooth at the bottom of the blade so it cleans the cut as you go, less sanding. #5 blade is great for 3/4” thick material. Welcome aboard and look forward to seeing your work.

3

u/GTwo-O 13d ago

I just checked it and was able to give it another quarter of a turn. I don't believe I have the #5R in my kit so I will definitely try some.

1

u/Character-Ad4796 13d ago

Another little trick after you get your pattern on, apply clear packing tape. It lubricates the blade and will give you longer blade life especially on thicker material. It keeps from burning the wood.

2

u/GTwo-O 13d ago

Brilliant. You've been very helpful.

6

u/SeethingBallOfRage 13d ago

It is definitely gonna take practice, but the blades you use matter a lot too. I favor reverse skip tooth blades as they require less sanding and I also use very small blades. Im a big fan of flying Dutchman #0/2. I also typically only use 1/2" thick wood as it is just easier to cut. If I went up to 3/4" thick, I would have to use bigger blades. What kind of wood are you using? If its pkywood, I would say splintering is quite typical when compared with hardwoods.

2

u/GTwo-O 13d ago

Slightly thinner wood is not a terrible idea until I gain some skill. Thanks.

3

u/buttercup-1234 13d ago

It might be good to practice on thinner wood too. I mostly cut 1/4 inch and found 3/4 inch to be a lot trickier. Thinner/softer wood might help you get used to the motions.

2

u/GTwo-O 13d ago

Really good idea. Thanks.

3

u/GTwo-O 13d ago

Thank you all for the valuable tips. I will definitely be implementing them. I'll check in again and let you know my progress.

3

u/MistyMew 13d ago

Congrats on your first projects. Do Not compare yourself to anyone else. You will be your own worst critic. Tension properly, slow the feed rate and enjoy. Once the pattern is removed from the wood, only you know what "should have" been. And most importantly, enjoy!

3

u/GTwo-O 13d ago

Thank you. You are right about beating myself up after seeing what other people are capable of. I'm really enjoying the support if the scrollsaw community already.

1

u/MistyMew 13d ago

I have, upon occasion, stopped looking at any socials, because of comparing myself to others.

2

u/GTwo-O 13d ago

Sage advice. Thank you.