What blade should I use for scroll saw work?

For general cutting in 3/4-inch wood, a #5 reverse-tooth blade is a good starting point. Use #2 or smaller for intricate fretwork, and #7 or larger for thicker stock. Reverse-tooth blades reduce tearout on the bottom face.

How do I prevent the wood from burning?

Burning is caused by dull blades, cutting too slowly, or blades that are too fine for the material. Replace blades frequently (they cost pennies each), apply paste wax to the table, and feed at a steady pace.

Can I cut metal with a scroll saw?

Yes, you can cut thin non-ferrous metals like aluminum, brass, and copper using metal-cutting blades with 20+ TPI. Use slower speeds and apply cutting lubricant.

Power Saws

$80-$150 for basic models, $200-$400 for mid-range variable speed, $400-$700 for premium models, $700-$2,000+ for top-tier Hegner and Excalibur saws.

The Complete Guide to Scroll Saws (2026)

Reviewed by Lumberama's Tools & Equipment Team

|Last updated May 26, 2026

A scroll saw is a precision cutting tool designed for intricate, detailed work in thin material. Its fine blade moves up and down rapidly while the material is guided freehand on a flat table, enabling tight curves, sharp corners, and interior cutouts that no other saw can achieve. Scroll saws are the tool of choice for fretwork, intarsia, wooden puzzles, ornamental pieces, and fine marquetry.

Key Takeaways

A scroll saw is a precision cutting tool designed for intricate, detailed work in thin material.
Its fine blade moves up and down rapidly while the material is guided freehand on a flat table, enabling tight curves, sharp corners, and interior cutouts that no other saw can achieve.
Scroll saws are the tool of choice for fretwork, intarsia, wooden puzzles, ornamental pieces, and fine marquetry.
Scroll saws are used for fretwork and filigree patterns, wooden puzzles and toys, intarsia (mosaic woodwork), marquetry and inlay, ornamental signs, holiday ornaments, detailed clock faces, cutting dovetail joints, and any project requiring extreme precision in thin stock up to 2 inches thick.
Throat depth (16-30 inches), blade type compatibility (pin-end and/or plain-end), variable speed control, tool-free blade clamps, vibration level, table tilt range, dust blower, work light, arm lift for interior cuts, table size, and quick blade change system.

What It's Used For

Scroll saws are used for fretwork and filigree patterns, wooden puzzles and toys, intarsia (mosaic woodwork), marquetry and inlay, ornamental signs, holiday ornaments, detailed clock faces, cutting dovetail joints, and any project requiring extreme precision in thin stock up to 2 inches thick.

Types & Variations

Parallel-Arm (most common, smooth cutting), C-Arm (older design, more vibration), Parallel-Link (premium, minimal vibration), Pin-End Blade models (easier blade changes, limited blade selection), Plain-End Blade models (wider blade selection, preferred by serious scrollers), and Variable-Speed models with 400-1,800 SPM range.

Key Features to Look For

Throat depth (16-30 inches)
blade type compatibility (pin-end and/or plain-end)
variable speed control
tool-free blade clamps
vibration level
table tilt range
dust blower
work light
arm lift for interior cuts
table size
and quick blade change system.

How to Use

1) Attach your pattern to the wood using spray adhesive or tape. 2) Select the correct blade — finer blades for tight curves, coarser for thicker wood. 3) Thread a plain-end blade through a drilled starter hole for interior cuts. 4) Set the speed — slower for hard or thick material, faster for thin softwood. 5) Guide the workpiece with both hands, feeding steadily into the blade. 6) Turn the workpiece, not the blade, to follow curves. 7) For sharp corners, cut to the corner, back up slightly, and approach from a different angle.

⚠️ Safety Tips

Wear safety glasses to protect from fine dust particles. Keep fingers to the sides of the blade, never directly in front. Use a hold-down foot to prevent the workpiece from lifting. Do not force the material — let the blade cut at its own pace. Work in a well-ventilated area or use dust collection, as scroll saws produce very fine dust. Disconnect power before changing blades.

Maintenance

Replace blades frequently — they are inexpensive and dull blades burn wood. Clean sawdust from the table and blade arm mechanism. Lubricate the arm pivot points with light oil. Check blade tension before each use. Inspect the rubber blade holders and replace when worn. Clean the dust blower tube. Store with blade tension released to prevent fatigue on the arms.

Price Range & Recommendations

Price Range: $80-$150 for basic models, $200-$400 for mid-range variable speed, $400-$700 for premium models, $700-$2,000+ for top-tier Hegner and Excalibur saws.

Beginners should start with the WEN 3921 16-inch ($80 range) or DeWalt DW788 20-inch ($450 range) — both offer smooth cutting and variable speed. The WEN is exceptional value for entry-level scrollers. Pros will want the Excalibur EX-21 for its 21-inch throat and tilting head design, or the Hegner Multicuts for the smoothest, most vibration-free cutting experience available.