A scroll saw is a small usually bench mounted saw for cutting intricate curves. Sometimes called a jig saw, it gets its name from the intricate small radius curves found on the interlocking pieces of a jig saw puzzle.
Anytime you’re working with detailed crafts, fretwork, or simply need to make precise freehand cuts, the flexibility of the scroll saw makes it the best tool choice. They are often used for intricate crafts, sign making, puzzle making, and also for internal cuts in stock where band saw cannot reach. The are usually used on thin stock but are capable of cutting stock up to two inches thick.
The scroll saw is a popular choice of many hobby woodworkers. It is a fairly versatile tool and takes up relatively little space in the shop. They are also one of the safer machines in the shop.
Scroll saws have been manufactured by many companies for a number of years. Delta, Walker Turner, Boice Crane and others used to manufacture heavy cast iron version of 24″ and sometimes larger scroll saws.
Scroll Saw Size
The recent trend had been toward a smaller lighter version of a bench mounted saw. They are typically available in 12 inch to 18 inch models and occasionally you’ll find a 24 inch model. The size of the scroll saw indicates the distance between its blade and the rear frame or body of the saw. This is called the “throat.” A 24 inch scroll saw, for example, could cut to the middle of a 48 inch diameter work piece.
Vintage scroll saws typically had a separate motor mounted behind or below the saw and a belt transferred power to the blade mechanism. Newer models have direct drive motors, many of which are variable speed.
Other features found on scroll saws include work
lights that are mounted very near where the blade cuts the wood. This reduces eye strain and makes it easier to follow the line. A blower mounted near the blade is useful to blow off the saw dust and makes it easier to see the cut lines.
Variable speed controls or variable speed motors allow you to set the speed to match the material you’re cutting. A tilting table allow you to make bevel or compound cuts in one pass.
Work hold downs also make the saw easier to use and hold the stock flat on the table.
Scroll Saw Blades
Next to the motor, the most important part of the scroll saw in the blade. Blades are rated by the number of teeth per inch. The higher the number of teeth per inch the smoother the cut.
There are many different types of blades including those for cutting wood, metals, and plastic. Typical scroll saw blades are 5 inches long. The major types are:
Skip tool blade – has a tooth, a gap, then another tooth
Double skip tooth – has two teeth, a gap, then another two teeth
Crown – has teeth pointing both up and down so it cuts on both the up and down stroke of the saw.
Spiral blades – a twisted flat scroll saw blade forming teeth on all sides. This allows you to feed stock into the blade from any direction
Vintage Scroll Saws
- 24 inch Craftsman Scroll Saw Model 103.23440
Craftsman Scroll Saw Model 113.23340 Machine Manual (pdf) - Craftsman Scroll Saw
by Ralph(Kokomo, IN, USA) Don’t know age of saw, found in estate. Would like to know if it is possible to find parts? It appears in good condition. Who made this scroll saw for Craftsman? - Craftsman Scroll Saw, Rockwell Band Saw, & Jointer Planer
by Terrie(Oklahoma) I have 3 items that belonged to my father before he passed and I’m trying to find out information and what the items would be worth. So far I haven’t been able to track down any information on them. Craftsman Planer Jointer Model #103.23340Craftsman motor1/2 HP Capacitor motor3450 RPM Ball BearingModel 1157556Type CRI8OK9 … Read more - Craftsman Model 103.23150
by Ed Nicholson(Lexington, SC) Purchased this 18″ scroll saw via local CL. Saw is complete (all saw parts, no motor or stand)and all parts run smoothly. Needs a good stripping/cleaning/painting. Will be looking for a period stand and period 1/3 hp motor to complete the project. I will post updated photos as the project moves … Read more - 1937 Delta 24″ De-luxe Scroll Saw No. 1200
“The Finest Scroll Saw Ever Made” For Heavy Work as Well as Light The Delta 24″ De-Luxe Scroll Saw No. 1200 was one of the finest scroll saws ever made for heavy duty as well as light duty work. This machine, from the moment it was first introduced, has been the standard of comparison for … Read more - Craftsman 18 Inch Scroll Saw
The Craftsman 18 inch scroll saw table tilts from 0 to 45 degrees for mitering and beveling wood up to 2 inches thick. It also cuts plastics and non-ferrous metals. It uses 5 or 6 inch plain-end blades scroll saw blades. The saw features an oil sealed bearing for smooth, quiet operation. Craftsman 18 Inch … Read more
Craftsman 18″ Scroll Saw
Delta 24″ De-Lux Scroll Saw No. 1200 (1937)
Walker Turner Direct Drive 24″ Scroll Saw
