tapering at one end

[rljohn56]

i've started getting into compound cutting and already into my 2nd project i noticed that one end of the pieces come out tapered. this only seems to be happening with letters and not any images.  my work piece is flat & i'm not aware of me forcing the piece.  my blade is level to the table so i'm not sure what i'm doing wrong.  could the tension be too slack?  thanks for the help.  Ray

[dgman]

Well Ray, if you are concerned about your tension, then it is definitely not tight enough.  I always tighten my tension as high as I can get it no matter what blade or thickness of wood.

[Lucky2]

Ray, either your tension is not set right, or you are forcing the cut. You can get results like this from both these issues, but I would think that this is from a slack blade.

Len

[lawson56]

I have often found it from slack blades,

[amazingkevin]

Don't you just hate it when this happens?

[crupiea]

Letters are not easy and take some time to get good at.  For me it has always been letters and stars that get me every time.  if I do a start right its like a party that day!!  Adjust the tension, slow down and keep at it.

[WayneMahler]

I would agree with tension. And let the blade do the work and be patient. 

[stoney]

It sounds like you are having an issue very common to those just getting familiar with using a scroll saw to cut thicker material.   As all ready stated in other members advice blade tension, blade type, and feed rate can all contribute to your tapering issue.   The type of material can also be a factor.   You can usually feed faster with softer materials providing you are using the right type of blade.   The issue you are having will take care of itself over time with patience and practice.   Hang in there and you will overcome.