What is a scroll saw used for?

A scroll saw allows you to cut wooden toy pieces such as puzzles, decorative objects like figurines, and furniture with great precision. This is due to its very fine U-shaped blade. It is the only tool that helps create smooth and clean curves. Cabinetmakers, marquetry artists, and luthiers are accustomed to using it in their work.

Comparison of Scroll Saws: Ranking of the Best Scroll Saws

I have selected for you the best scroll saws on the market to help you find the ideal tool for your precision cuts.

Dremel Scroll Saw: Moto-Saw for Modeling 70W & MS51

The Dremel scroll saw breathes modernity. Everything has been designed to assist beginners and those less skilled in cutting. It features a graduated table to achieve clean cuts accurate to the millimeter.

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With 70 W, the device is especially suited for modeling. With the 5 blades provided, you can work on different materials of various thicknesses of your choice. Moreover, its speed ranging from 1500 to 2250 confirms this capability.

Measuring 40 cm long, 37 cm wide, and 21 cm high, the machine does not take up much space in your workspace. It can also be detached and carried without difficulty to work on large pieces thanks to the case.

Proxxon 28092 / DSH Two-Speed Scroll Saw

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This Proxxon scroll saw is the ideal size for creating figurines and small decorative wooden objects. It works with precision on curves and recesses in each piece thanks to its adjustable speed.

The machine benefits from German expertise regarding the durability of its components and its motor. You can therefore expect it to last longer than the competition. Depending on the desired result and your skill, you can set the speed to 990 revolutions per minute or 1500 revolutions per minute.

With that and its power of 205 W, higher than average, your saw will be able to chain cuts and dense pieces of 5 cm, plastic of 3 cm, and non-ferrous metal of 1 cm without tiring. Plexiglass, leather, fiberglass, and many other materials can also be cut.

Einhell Scroll Saw TC-SS 405 E

Einhell built this scroll saw to provide good stability, but also to ensure its longevity. The brand also designed it to be comfortable for all types of users. Its metal table tilts at a 45° angle to offer you good visibility. Thanks to the intuitive clamping system, you can quickly change the blade as needed. The presser also facilitates holding the pieces to be cut.

The 3 m cord promotes safety and comfort for those who do not have a nearby outlet. They do not have to use an extension cord. The machine is equipped with a connector for dust extraction.

In addition to all this, users appreciate the quietness the model demonstrates during operation. They can thus use it freely.

 

Holzmann DKS21Pro Scroll Saw

The Holzmann DKS21Pro is a 120 W precision scroll saw designed for fine cuts in wood, plastic, metal, or plexiglass. It offers a variable speed from 500 to 1,700 rpm, a cutting depth of 57 mm at 90° and 27 mm at 45°, as well as a 406 mm gooseneck allowing work on wider pieces. Its table tiltable up to 45° and 21 mm blade stroke ensure precise curved cuts for marquetry or modeling.

Designed for comfort, it includes a cleaning blower, a Ø35 mm dust extraction outlet, a lighting lamp, and table extensions to support long pieces. Compatible with standard 127 mm blades, it weighs about 12 kg, ensuring good stability for detailed and regular work.

Proxxon 27088 / DS 230/E

This Proxxon 27088 is among the smaller models with its dimensions of 33 x 22 x 12.5 cm. You can therefore work anywhere with it and carry out modeling and any activity requiring great delicacy and precision. While most weigh around ten kilos, this one does not exceed 2 kg, making it easier to transport.

The adjustable stop protects the blade, which gives the brand an extra point compared to the competition.

The 85 W power also allows the device to make cuts silently. You will thus not need earplugs.

The ultra-strong blade splits softwood like poplar and other materials like polystyrene. However, for harder woods like oak or chestnut, prefer a circular saw.

Ryobi 4892210149602

The Ryobi 4892210149602 satisfies professionals. From the outside, you can already see that it exudes solidity with all its metal parts. You are therefore likely to keep this machine for years. It attaches firmly to the workbench and will not affect the sharpness of your cuts.

The machine features a lamp illuminating the blade and cutting line. If it bothers you from above, you just have to push the flexible arm to one side. You are therefore unlikely to cut or smudge on the sides. The transparent cover on the upper part protects you from material splinters.

If you work with multiple materials or different thicknesses, you will have no difficulty with the convenient blade change system. It requires no tools. Moreover, it works just as well with smooth blades as with pinned blades.

Fartools One Scroll Saw 113254

The Fartools One 113254 is a 120 W scroll saw designed for fine cuts in wood and precision work. It features a variable speed from 400 to 1,600 rpm, a gooseneck of about 405 mm, and a cutting height up to 40 to 50 mm, allowing work on medium-sized pieces. Its metal table measuring 413 x 253 mm, tiltable up to 45° facilitates bevel cuts, while the 127 mm blades ensure precise curved cuts.

Designed for comfort, it includes a cleaning blower, an angle guide to improve precision, and a stable construction suitable for occasional scroll sawing. Delivered with several blades, it is suitable for modeling, marquetry, or decorative DIY work while remaining easy to use for beginners.

 

After completing your artistic cutouts, you might need a better wood lathe to shape complementary volumetric pieces. For the most meticulous finishes on your creations, using a engraving pen allows you to add personalized details directly on the surface. If you are working on larger projects, also consider checking your markings with an electronic level to ensure perfect precision in your assemblies.

Scroll Saw Brands

If you are looking for a good scroll saw, the following brands are reliable references.

Dremel

Dremel supports DIY enthusiasts and professional craftsmen by providing quality equipment. You will notably find renovation, DIY, and even restoration tools. The brand has even released 3D printers for everyone’s enjoyment. It also promotes recycling of household equipment such as coat racks. In 2019, the Dremel 3000 was awarded the Best Rotary Tool Laureate.

Regarding scroll saws, when comparing prices, Dremel positions itself in the middle range, yet its models do not lack performance. It develops products dedicated, for example, to modeling and does not hesitate to include blade sets with its machines for the most comfortable use.

Bosch

Bosch is well-known in the world of renovation, construction, and DIY work. Over the years, the German brand has greatly diversified its activities and today offers, besides its industrial machines, drills, saws, or versatile tools, connected products and services.

Most Bosch scroll saw models are sold without a table. But in terms of ergonomics, they outshine the competition. They feature a non-slip handle, a sharp blade, and a practical carrying case.

Ryobi

Ryobi is also a must-know brand if you want a job well done and neat. Power tools, garden tools, DIY equipment, and home products, there is a choice among all its models. Few stores offer such promotions. The brand even goes as far as almost giving a second tool for the purchase of one.

Ryobi scroll saws are very complete models supplied with lighting and a splinter guard. The brand emphasizes design and user comfort, which is why its machines cost a bit more than average. Quality has its price.

Scheppach

Scheppach provides DIY enthusiasts and professionals with quality and modern equipment to always make their work easier. Lawn mowers, table saws, circular saws, paint guns… you can find everything with the brand.

Scheppach is so far one of the brands that produce the largest number of scroll saw models. Their variable speeds adapt to different uses. In terms of power, with their 125 W, they also fall into the average range, making them as versatile as possible. They are also the most expensive.

What is the best scroll saw?

On the market, there are two types of scroll saws: the manual version and the electric one. With the first, you place the piece of wood to be cut on the machine, while in the second case, you put it on top. Depending on the type of projects you want to do with it, choose a model with a wide cutting depth and width.

Electric scroll saws cost much more than manual ones, but they provide more comfort, especially if you use them every day and if large-scale work awaits you. However, if you only need a scroll saw occasionally, there is no need to splurge on an electric model.

In the case of the latter, if you often cut beveled pieces, make sure that the table designed to hold the piece of wood can tilt up to 45°. The stand is equipped with adjustable height feet so that you can work under the best conditions.

Your future purchase should also be equipped with additional options for a complete job from cutting to sanding and milling. The most efficient models even include blowers or vacuum cleaners to clean the work surface as you go.

A speed controller as well as a pedal and a lever allowing you to adjust the blade position are obviously welcome. For inexperienced users, manufacturers equip their machines with magnifiers, lamps, or guidance systems. These elements ensure the sharpness of the cut. Thus, you can start at your own pace and go slowly if necessary. A scroll saw cuts at 900 strokes per minute and can accelerate up to 1400 strokes per minute for expert woodworkers.

Of course, do not forget the safety devices such as a blade guard or a locking system that prevents the tool from starting without the owner’s knowledge.

Power also influences the tool’s performance. The weakest machines have a power of 70 W while the most robust go up to 200 W.

Most of the time, scroll saws are sold with a set of suitable blades. So you no longer have to spend extra on these accessories.

In your selection, do not neglect the noise the machine makes when running at full speed.

How to choose your scroll saw blades?

Blade type	Main use	Compatible material
Pin-end blade	Quick change: simple cuts	Softwoods and plywood
Plain blade (without pins)	Precision work: interior cuts	All types of wood and plastics
Spiral blade	Multidirectional cutting without turning the wood	Bulky pieces
Metal blade	Fine and slow cuts	Aluminum and non-ferrous metals

It is advisable to have several blades on hand, depending on the material worked and its thickness. Indeed, even with wood, species require different blades according to their nature. Take into account the thickness to be cut. Generally, it is about thirty millimeters. To cut precious stones, opt for example for a scroll arm averaging 1 cm not exceeding 1.3 cm. On the other hand, for large pieces of wood, a scroll arm of maximum 3 cm will do. This figure can go up to 6 cm depending on the models.

Before buying your blade, check if on your machine it will be fixed by pins or if you need plain blades. Then, look at the number of teeth expressed in TPI on the market. Low TPI of 5 to 7 are more suitable for dense pieces, and the finer they are, the higher the TPI.

What wood to use to make subjects with a scroll saw?

Opinions differ regarding the wood to use for making subjects. Some claim that beech allows for beautiful finishes provided it does not have too many knots, but it complicates the task during cutting due to its rigidity. Unlike this, linden is fragile. Birch, boxwood, pear, and maple are also good candidates for clean work. However, chestnut and oak are not recommended due to the presence of tannins.

Medium-density fiberboard tends to break on thin thicknesses and is a common type at sawmills, which is not hard to find. And if you can afford it, nothing beats solid wood without defects.

How to scroll saw properly?

Prepare your equipment:

First of all, wear appropriate clothing. Protect yourself with a mask, goggles, gloves, and earplugs or noise-canceling headphones if necessary. Also, do not hesitate to wear a coverall.

Set up the scroll saw:

Install the saw on the table and bolt it down so it does not move. Mount the blade on it, and once it is properly positioned, plug in the saw. If you cannot clearly see the cutting area, do not hesitate to illuminate it through the machine.

Get to work:

Choose the appropriate blade and insert it between the pins. Tension it properly, with the teeth facing outward. Tilt the table to the appropriate angle and lock it in that position. If your machine has a chip guard, fold it down. Place the piece of wood on the table and lower the presser foot. Turn the machine on, and press the pedal as you manipulate the piece of wood.

Work safely:

From time to time, use the blower on the work area to keep good visibility. To make curved cuts, for example, place the edge of the board near the blade at the starting point, and turn gradually. If you want to make an “O,” drill the inside using a drill as with the manual version and widen it with the scroll saw afterward. Certainly, you might be motivated to save your materials, but if your piece of wood is too small to hold comfortably in your hand, you take big risks.

How to mount a scroll saw blade?

On the scroll saw with pins, you can see at the ends of the two arms the dedicated slots for the blade. You just have to insert the blade there, teeth facing outward according to its fastening method. Whether it is pin-type or smooth models, most of the time, blades for this kind of tool have holes at their ends for the fixing screws. Screw them in gradually while checking the tension of the accessory.

How to use a manual scroll saw?

Start by gathering the tools you will need, namely a pencil, the wood to be cut, a drill, and a square in addition to your scroll saw. Using the pencil and the square, clearly mark the lines to be cut with the saw. Secure the piece of wood in the vise, hold your scroll saw firmly, and insert the blade.

Keep one hand on the piece of wood and the other on your saw. Make sure the blade is aligned with your elbow to avoid unnecessary arm pain. By sliding up and down 3 times maximum into the wood, you could maintain a good pace.

For tougher and thicker pieces, do not hesitate to use both hands. In this case, the blade should remain aligned with your torso. If you need to create a pattern in the middle of the piece of wood, draw it with a pencil beforehand. Take the drill and create a large enough hole for the scroll saw blade to enter. Detach the blade to pass it through in the direction you want to make the cut. Reattach the blade to the saw and cut along the drawing as delicately as possible.

If the blade struggles to advance through the wood or any other material, do not force it to avoid damaging it. Vary the speed at which you saw. If you notice burrs, replace it with a slightly thicker model.

FAQ: Everything you need to know about the scroll saw: the practical guide