Leaderboard

I think someone was asking about this.

I'm mostly talking about small breaks. Get out of the chair to drill a few holes, attach a pattern, sweep the floor, check my email, or whatever. I guess I probably go a bit longer at the saw actively cutting...20-30 minutes max. I never really timed it. My setup is nice and comfortable. I guess I'm not as focused as y'all are. Maybe it's because I sit behind a computer all day for work. When I'm in the shop, I like to get up and putter around and while away the day. I'm not under any time constraints or deadlines. I was just curious about what others do. The article I'm writing is sharing a few tips for newbie scrollers. I'm suggesting breaking up the active cutting with other tasks so they are refocused when they get back to the saw. the time certainly differs between individuals. For me, it's 15-20 min. I guess for the more experienced powerhouses it's more like 2+ hours. Anyway, I cut the way I cut because that's the way I like to cut.

This has been hanging in my shop for many years. It's one of the first thing anyone coming in will see.

This post got me thinking. I have been a advocate of using a frame to complete an Art panel project. Frames can be either readily available commercial frames (such as those available from Walmart, Hobby Lobby, etc.) or custom made, like I do for all of my recent work. The big advantages to custom made are: lower cost to make than buy, and panel size is not of concern as a custom frame can be any size. Frame construction can be very basic or very ornate and complecated. Equipment to make custom "profesional" quality frames is very expensive and not suitable for the common hobby type shops most of us operate. Also, most Scroll Saw Art panels celebrate the wood we use to create the art and overly ornate frames are not often suitable. Therefore, I find the frames for my work need only be simple flat frames similar to the many quality commercial frames on the market at rediculous prices. I my case, as I produce a lot of Art Panels, it is absolutely necessary to keep the cost of framing my work to a minimum. I have developed a method to make, in my opinion, reasonably nice simple flat frames that celebrate the Art panel while keeping the cost per frame to a minimum. I have posted a short tutorial in the Learning Center in Works in Progress & Tutorials that show the step by step method I use to make my frames.

I can scroll only a short OP time and then need to get up. I am scrolling less because of arthritis and other similar issues. This thread is very revealing. Two major contributors have mentioned some changes away from scrolling. I really like scrolling and still do it but have also found another hobby. Last year, I bought a 10 watt Ortur Laser Master 3. It has been a real challenge but also fun. It is less stressful on my body except for the computer mouse. I do not scroll or laser engrave/cut for selling. The mental challenge of the laser is what I like. It is not just put something into it and turn it on. There is a lot of background stuff. I am certain that the CNC requires a lot of thought.

Hit it with 120 ~ 220 then 400 concentrating more on darkest spots. I think it looks a little better and safe from the fire

I've been working to finish these two western pieces for a sale this coming weekend. They were both double stack cut and while one of the attached photos shows it is finished natural, the other is finished with ipswich. They have their mates but I wanted to show the difference between the two. They are cut on Baltic Birch with Birch backers stained ebony. The frames are knotty pine cut to size. The pieces are coated with several coats of gloss polyacrylic and the frames are done with satin. The patterns are by Jim Blume. The portrait piece was an easy cut but the landscape piece was a ... well, I'll just say it was tough. There are several areas that are bridged with single small pieces that made the piece very fragile. Regardless, however challenging, they were a lot of fun to cut. The door hanger is a Steve Good pattern and still has to be finished with polyacrylic. Wanted something a little easier to do after tackling the landscape Jim Blume piece. Finally, our new addition to our family. (My wife's Christmas present.) The Papillon, Chocolate "Chip," give us a total of four dogs. We still have the two cats and about 75 goldfish. Anyway, I did the pattern for Chip's piece which was cut from Baltic Birch and stained Ipswich. I added brown accents because he is what is called a Tri-color Papillon. It has a black Birch backer and the frame is cut from pre-fab framing material to match the ones I have done of the other cuts of the clan.

Wasn't going to cut this pattern because of the veining... I can mess up on some things and have sand paper bail me out but you pretty much have to get it right since there's no do overs. When I was cutting the hairline the blade was stuck when it was done so I cut it off rather than trying to back it out. All in all it wasn't too bad but the letters could have been better. Now I'm trying to decide if I want to add stain, wipe on poly or something else since the ply looks too light and plain. Then there's the deciding on a frame or something else for a backer other than black...

It has been quite some time since I have posted, I have dropped in and caught up on some reading. On one of those visits I found a pattern by Jim Blume(Thank you) and decided to cut it. This is my cutting of Jim's Yellowstone. I stack cut 3 out of 1/8" Baltic Birch. measures 16 x 20 and is framed using 100+ year old elm barn board. Just over 14 hours of cutting using spiral blades. Again, Thank you Jim for sharing the pattern.

Looks great

Well said!

For me, it’s however long a blade lasts. My supply of blades are intentionally on my work bench, not by my saw. That way, when it’s time to change the blade,I take the blade out of the blade holder, stand up, put used blade in plastic pop/soda bottle on one workbench, take 3 steps over to other workbench, grab new blade, take 2 more steps, sit down at saw and put it in blade holder and away I go. However, there are many a time that I’ll play with the Slinky that is on my bench, or look out the window and admire the view, or do whatever! I’m in no hurry when it comes to shop time. And yes, I do sell the vast majority of my work. For what it’s worth, on 1/19, I hooked up a digital clock to my saw. Actual running time of the saw is 17.4 hours. In that time I have made 3 intarsia pieces, 12 birdhouse ornaments, and 3 penny drop games. To me, it’s eye opening how little my saw is actually running!

A couple of comments about the Scrollnado, I think the pickup tube underneath is small - 1/2"? Also, the location is such that some dust will be missed. I do not know the specs of the Metro Vac. I use a Festool with 138 cfm and vac of 96". With my 3/4" diameter pickups, it gets most of the dust.

Usually at least four hours scrolling before taking a break or call it quits for the day. I get small breaks when I get up to drill some holes. There are times when I'm in the zone cutting a pattern as if I know what I'm doing and I lose track of time. It really depends on how my body is acting at the time.

As Bill said, try sanding.

This is also a Russ Beard pattern, this is Crucified.

This is a Russ Beard Pattern, I have called it Condemned.

After reading this thread, I realized how much my saw "walked" across the floor. Doesn't help that it is a sloped floor. I bought these blocks. Wow!!! They are working great. https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B08251YJM4?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details

It depends on the project and how many times I get interrupted. I have grandkids around the house most of the week, so many interruptions occur.

Thank you, that’s just perfect.

Thank you that’s perfect.

Don, is this what you’re thinking of? Don’t remember where I got it from, but I’ve had this out on my display when I’m exhibiting at our county fair.

Are you looking for this? Response stopped Certainly! Scroll saw cutting is a fascinating craft that combines precision, creativity, and patience. Let’s delve into the value of scroll saw projects: Experience and Skill Development: Working with a scroll saw provides a unique experience. The process of selecting patterns, handling the delicate blade, and maneuvering the wood demands skill and attention. As you gain expertise, you’ll learn to anticipate the blade’s movement, adjust tension, and create intricate designs. Each project contributes to your growth as a woodworker. Hours of Dedication: Scroll saw projects require time and dedication. The hours spent meticulously cutting intricate shapes add value to the final piece. Whether it’s a delicate fretwork ornament or an elaborate wooden portrait, the effort invested becomes part of the project’s worth. Artistry and Aesthetics: Scroll saw cutting allows for artistic expression. The ability to transform raw wood into intricate lace-like patterns or detailed silhouettes is captivating. The aesthetic appeal of scroll saw work—whether displayed on a wall, as part of furniture, or as standalone art—enhances its value. Customization and Personalization: Scroll saw projects can be customized to suit individual preferences. From choosing wood types to adjusting patterns, each piece becomes unique. Personalized gifts, home decor, and functional items (like wooden puzzles) hold sentimental value for both the creator and recipient. Attention to Detail: The precision required in scroll saw cutting sets it apart. Unlike other woodworking tools, the scroll saw allows for intricate curves and tight corners. The meticulous attention to detail elevates the value of the finished work. Market Value: The market for scroll saw creations varies. Some buyers appreciate the craftsmanship and are willing to pay for unique, handcrafted pieces. Factors like wood quality, complexity, and finishing contribute to the market value. In summary, scroll saw cutting isn’t just about creating objects; it’s about the journey—the hours spent refining your skills, the joy of bringing patterns to life, and the satisfaction of holding a finely crafted piece in your hands. Whether you create for personal enjoyment or to share with others, the value lies in the process and the end result

My scroll saw is bolted to a three legged wooden stand with a thick piece of carpet between the base of the saw and the 2 inch thick wood platform. No complaints. When I first got into this I came across a website article that promoted mounting the SS in a box filled with sand to dampen/diminish vibration.