Scrolling
If you or a loved one has ever wanted to cut intricate designs out of wood, the tool you need is a scroll saw. It is such a fun hobby to get into!
Also termed “scroll sawing,” it is anything involving a scroll saw.
Before I talk about the machinery, let’s remember: SAFETY FIRST!
For scroll saws you have a wide price range to start out.
For under $100, I recommend this one:
In the scrolling community, this is not what most people use. It vibrates too much and you can’t make very sharp turns. But I have been using this model exclusively (I bought a second one after the first one died after 2 years) for all of my projects. Someday I’ll upgrade, but if you’re just getting into it, this is a great option. Harbor Freight tools carries it.
Next best option: WEN scroll saw
I almost bought this one when my other scroll saw died, but I guess I’m a creature of habit and didn’t want to learn a new machine. This has great reviews and you can order it on Amazon.
The very best option: Pegas scroll saw
If you hope to make scrolling your profession, this is the workhorse you want. Most professional scroll saw artists use this model.
Other things you will need:
Some scroll saws come with a few blades, but you will definitely need more. The TPI (teeth per inch) you want on the various blades will be determined by how thick the wood is that you are cutting.
Really, you can use any thin-ish sheet of wood, but I would suggest Baltic Birch plywood to start. It cuts fairly smooth, thus making it ideal for beginners.
To get started, bare minimum you need a scroll saw, some wood, and maybe some sandpaper. Honestly you could get by with those 3 things for a while. But if you’re looking to make your life easier, here are some additional tools I would suggest:
This machine has saved me so much time. You can attach it to a table and hold the pieces you have cut to shape them easily. The only downside is, if you happen to be holding onto a piece very tightly and press it up to the fast-moving spindle, it will end up on the other side of the room.
When I’m not using the spindle sander, I use my Dremel to sand small pieces. And if you want to get REALLY fancy, you can get the flex shaft attachment.
Other sanders to choose from:
And then there’s paint, glue, and some sort of sealer. It really is such a beautifully rewarding hobby!
Also a good book to get you start:
Whitney Ruiz Art 