Blade size for animal puzzles

[Beeber]

I am making jig saw puzzels of animals. Notice that when I cut the piece lines that there is a lot of play between pieces. Can anyone recommend which blade to use to ensure a tighter fit? I use spiral blades for the cuts (size 5.) I would like very tight so when I sand, it leaves a little space for finishing.

[Clayton717]

Try using an actual puzzle blade, or size 2/0 in a spiral may be close.

[FD Mike]

Hi Beeber,

 

I would not use a spiral blade. Even a # 2/0 leaves a wide kerf. Besides you get nothing but round corners.

Use a regular flat blade. The number depends on the thickness of the wood.

FD Mike

[Beeber]

Hate to say this but I am ignorant in the use of plain blades. Have always used spiral, even for fine line work. Will try 2/0 but was not sure about thick wood. Thanks guys, will keep you informed. I am using Pine for softness.

[Terry Jay]

You said an animal jig saw puzzle. If you are cutting 1/4" or less, then a puzzle blade would be good. If you are cutting stand-up puzzles in 3/4" stock as suggested by saying you are using pine, then you may need a #1 or # 3 blade. I use a # 3, skip tooth and no reverse teeth.

[Beeber]

Thanks, ordering new different blades tomorrow. Will keep you up on what happens. Using 3/4 Pine.

[chippygeoff]

Hi Beeber. I make a lot of jigsaws to sell at craft fairs, mostly animals and not more than a dozen pieces in 3/4 hardwood. I use ultra reverse blades from Mikes workshop and usually it is a number 5 blade. With this blade it leaves a perfect finish so there is no need to sand the sides. I give the top and bottom of the wood a light sand prior to finishing. I tried making them in pine when I first started but getting a really good finish was the problem. Pine is okay if you are going to paint them but this is time consuming and the profits take a plunge. I find that people love to see the grain of the wood and feel it before buying.

[Beeber]

Thanks