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General Category => General Scroll Saw Talk => Topic started by: Len on January 26, 2012, 09:39:19 am
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Hi every one it's been a long time since I last posted ,had alot going on the last few months. I would like to know if anyone has scrolled using these woods [ purpleheart, teak,or lacewood and if so what is a good blade to use and what is it like to work with.If any one has use it and you have photos, can u post them so I and maybe others can see them . I can get this wood but it is a bit expensive. All comments welcome.
Remember keep your blades sharp and your fingers safe ;D
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I have used a lot of purple heart to make keychains. It burns easily, so you will need to reduce the friction. I put on a layer of masking tape and attach the pattern to the masking tape and then add a layer of packing tape to the top side. My blade of choice is #3 Flying Dutchman reverse tooth. I have also used #1 blades but prefer the #3.
As well you will need to let the saw cut at it's own pace, these are very hard woods and cannot be pushed through the saw without compromising the quality of the work. Hope this helps ;)
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I've used purpleheart and lacewood both. Like any hardwood, the blade depends on the thickness of the wood and the intricacy of the pattern. Cdrover is correct about the purpleheart burning. It is similar to cherry that way. You also need to use care not to heat it too much when sanding or the wood will change color. Lacewood makes gorgeous free standing animal puzzles! The woods are expensive, but you don't use that much for most scrolling.
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an additional layer of tape on the bottom side can also prevent burn marks. I do use that on thick pieces or if the wood is hard, or if I use a smaller blade than I would normally do (e.g. a tiny cut out).