Sawing MDF

[Rockytime]

I think I have read somewhere on this site MDF is used. Today I saw a co-workers name cut out of what appeared to be MDF. The material was about 1/2" thick and had a plexiglass mirror surface on one side. I am wondering where such material can be had and also thinking that MDF dust would be worse than regular sawdust. The name I saw was cut so perfectly it appears to have been done by CNC. So is anyone using MDF?

[Lucky2]

I use it every so often, but, because of the toxic dust I wear all of my respirator equipment. I don't like using it, but, every so often my wife will want something cut out of it so she can toll paint a picture on it. If you are going to be using it, make sure your well protected from the dust, there will be a lot.

 

Len

[amazingkevin]

I think I have read somewhere on this site MDF is used. Today I saw a co-workers name cut out of what appeared to be MDF. The material was about 1/2" thick and had a plexiglass mirror surface on one side. I am wondering where such material can be had and also thinking that MDF dust would be worse than regular sawdust. The name I saw was cut so perfectly it appears to have been done by CNC. So is anyone using MDF?

I've never run across any mdf like your saying ,But i love how mdf cuts and paints.I don't use it any more because of the harmful dust

[Scrolling Steve]

Like the others  have said, Just protect yourself from the dust!

[JTTHECLOCKMAN]

I will agree about the dust. That stuff is so fine it gets everywhere. Not good to breath in either. 

[oldhudson]

I use it in the shop quite a bit, but not for scroll work. Yes the dust is pretty bad, but it's cheap, flat, cuts & sands easily, can be found at most any home center in .25", .5" and .75" thicknesses in half and full sheets. In addition to the whole dust thing the other attribute that is a negative is the weight. I think a full sheet of 3/4" is 110 lbs., ugh. 

 

Mostly I use it to make patterns for larger woodworking projects.  But I also keep a sheet to put on saw horses for an assembly/finishing table.

[Phantom Scroller]

MDF bad stuff but then isn't most woods just do what Len says wear the right equipment and you should be fine. I DON'T USE IT MYSELF.   Roly

[WayneMahler]

I don't use mdf for scrolling period. The dust is very harmful so as mentioned protection is a must. The dust will float in the air so exhausting through a filter or window is also pretty critical. If you choose to use this, please be very careful, and if you can cut it outside that also would be a plus. 

[Jim Finn]

I use mdf to make AK 47's  toys.  I do not cut it often.  My workshop benches are topped with it also.