getting started with DW788

[floridagramps]

I am recently retired and bought myself a DW788 which I assembled today. Will begin the learning process tomorrow.

I bought a workbook with a series of exercises which I will through as I gain some experieince.

 

Would appreciate some tips on the following:

 

1. how can I make the DW788 stand mobile? Has anyone added casters to 2 legs? What type?

 

2. what type chair will be most comfortable. Should I get a stool or a chair with a bacK

 

3. Is 1/8 hardboard a suitable practice material

 

Any suggestions appreciated

[amazingkevin]

hello TOM, welcome!I like to sit in a chair with a bach on it so i can have support for my lower back. It helps fighting fatige and makes me have proper posture.For a practice piece thin cuts quicker ,so in the begining you may want that to practice on so you'll adjust fast to the ways of scrolling .Try to you at least 4 teeth in contact with the wood at all time sas a rule.1/4 wood 4 teeth 1" wood 16 teeth.for faster cuts less teeth per inch.clean cuts top and bottom with little or no sanding use a blade with reverse teeth.Some one else will chime in on the casters for you soon.Enjoy your stay and make your own gallery here .Show off your fire wood first projects so we can all learn from them,lol.Post your works as you finish them in the user gallery.Thanks for comeing!

[Oges]

1. how can I make the DW788 stand mobile? Has anyone added casters to 2 legs? What type?

Something like this might work for you

http://www.woodworkingcentreshop.co.uk/ ... l_Kit.html

 

 

2. what type chair will be most comfortable. Should I get a stool or a chair with a back

I was lucky enough to find a wooden bar stool with a back that also had a swivel seat on it at a yard sale, so I had the height I needed, support for my back and the swivel made it easier getting onto it.

 

 

3. Is 1/8 hardboard a suitable practice material

Pine, ply, hardboard, anything cheap is suitable enough to practice on

[toolbeltman]

You might like to check out Rick's scrollsaw site....not sure how to post a link for you, but just type in the name...it should come up...he has loads of reviews and tips...hope this helps...

Regards Doug

[SCR0LL3R]

I would say 1/4" material is significantly easier to work with because the 1/8" offers very little resistance when cutting. I often stack cut 2 layers of material when I have to cut something challenging that only needs to be 1/8" thick just to make things easier for myself.

[Vector01]

If you can pick up some 1/2" pine that would be good to practice with. The 788 goes through thin wood (1/4" or less) like a mad beaver If cutting 1/4" or less turn down the speed and go slow. 1/2" or 3/4" wood will let you play with the speed and different blades. I just cut a backing out of 1/4" walnut ply. Had to turn the speed down to 2 and go real slow. Had no problem following the line and cutting a 9" X 12" oval.

[wedo scroll]

3. Is 1/8 hardboard a suitable practice material,

IMO No! I find the hardboard dust to be irritating, I find it best to stick with thin woods or a plywood. I also use an old vacuum to keep the dust contained.

Bill