On Fri, 28 Dec 2007 15:44:33 -0600, "Bob"
wrote:

Hello, I have been looking at this and a couple other NG's on
woodworking, and am interested getting a scroll saw to try my hand
at some of the projects I see you guys working on.

I am less than a newbie, more of a newbie want-a-be. I was in a
store a while back and saw some work for sale. They were stars,
state shapes (Texas), and other nice pieces. I asked about them and
the store owner's father-in-law makes them as a hobby. From that, I
got to thinking that this might be something I would like to do in
my retired years (am 73 years old so don't need any real long term
projects (smile)).

I think I would enjoy turning as well, but equipment for lathes and
tools is just too much for my budget, but I can probably swing the
expense of scrolling work. I have been to several internet sites I
have seen mentioned on here, and have found in Goggle. But I still
have a few questions that I'd appreciate some comments on.

Buying a scroll saw: At a big box store, they have two. One is a
Dremmel, 18 inch throat, variable speed of 650 - 4500, price $199.
The other is a Ryobi, 16 inch throat, variable speed of 500 - 4000,
price $99. They both seem to have the same features. Is either one
of these, preferably the cheapest, okay? If not, what features
should I be looking for in a saw, for example, foot switch?

What kinds of wood would I have to buy. Can standard lumber such as
1 X 6, 2 X 12, etc be used or should on consider buying the exotic
woods, which seem to come at a pretty big premium?

In addition to the wood, what are one's need in various blades, and
is this a big expense?

Heck, I don't even know enough about this hobby to ask intelligent
questions, so any suggestions / advice anyone will be nice enough to
pass on, I will appreciate.
Thanks in advance,
Bob-tx




A scroll saw is not the most-common power tools in a typical woodshop.
I've done woodworking for over 40 years and have not yet touched a
scroll saw. Any new scroll saw under $600 I'd have my doubts. For a
beginner woodworker a band saw is a better choice for versatility, or
a quality jig saw (about $200). Scroll saws are mostly for
decorative work or toys, but anyone can master this skill without too
much fuss.

Look for..
A light and blower are good features. A large cast iron table. Heavy
is good to help cut down vibration and improve cut accuracy. The
larger the throat depth, the larger the piece you can cut. A saw with
a sturdy base is better than a table top model.

You can work with any wood. Generally, the harder the wood, the
slower the speed. Of course, softer thinner woods cut much faster.
Start with less expensive wood as your skills improve. I suspect
scroll saw blades are inexpensive.

I suggest buying a book about scroll saws. You'll get a lot more
detailed information about this particular tool, safety and proper
care. Try a few easy projects at first.

..