Open Works has a Scroll Saw. You must complete Wood Shop 1 before using the machine.
There are blades available for the scroll saw but it is recommended that members bring their own blades to get the desired blade type. This scroll saw takes pinless blades- if you have blades with pins, the pins can be removed.
A scroll saw is best for fine, intricate, and curved cuts through thin material. It can also be used for interior cuts.
Tool Name | Best For | Worst For |
---|---|---|
Band Saw | curved cuts and long cuts | interior cuts and really large pieces |
Scroll Saw | small pieces, sharp turns, and interior cuts | thick material |
Jig Saw | large panels and interior cuts | small panels and thick material |
Laser Cutter | making identical pieces | thick material |
You do not need to reserve this machine.
Permitted Materials:
• hardwoods
• softwoods
• composites
Open Works allows but does not encourage the use of reclaimed wood. Any reclaimed wood must be inspected by the member with a metal detector (provided) and reviewed by a Community Technician before processing.
The following materials are NOT permitted in the Wood Shop:
• Reclaimed wood containing metal
• Materials containing or coated with lead or lead-based paint
• Any pre-finished woods (for example: finished flooring, old bar tops, etc.)
• Pressure treated wood
• Foam
• Metal
• Glass
• PVC and vinyl
Safety Check:
Sturdy, close-toed shoes must be worn at all times.
Long hair, jewelry, and loose clothing must be tied back.
Safety glasses must be worn while machines are running.
A dust mask or a NIOSH certified respirator and earmuffs are recommended.
For more information on shop safety visit Wood shop under "Safety."
Do not cut round, unstable, or thick material.
Use material that has a good flat face.
The scroll saw is stored on a mobile cart.
The blade is held in place by thumbscrew blade clamps on the top and bottom arms of the scroll saw.
Even dull blades have sharp teeth that can cut you. Be careful when handling blades.
Scroll saws cut on the downstroke, so it is essential that teeth face down and towards the user.
Insert the blade into the bottom blade clamp and securely tighten the thumbscrew.
Insert the top of the blade into the top blade clamp and securely tighten the top thumbscrew.
Turn the tension lever to the right to tension the blade.
It is recommended to make a practice cut on scrap material in order to dial in the blade tension and speed for best results.
Always feed towards the teeth, never from the side.
The table of the scroll saw can be tilted up to 45° to the left or right. There is a detent at 0° to help with resetting the table.
To make an inside cut:
Use a mild spray glue or a glue stick to stick a printed design to the surface of the wood before cutting.
If using a spray glue, use the spray booth or use some paper to make sure the spray glue stays contained and doesn't interfere with anyone else's work or the work tables.
Instructions adapted from the DeWalt Manual.