A question I’m often asked is how to cut plywood with a scroll saw. While there are many different types of scroll saws on the market, my preferred saw is the CNC wood scroll saw (or, “Computer Numbered Control”), which is mounted on a computer controlled platform. The scroll saw mounts on the workbench and offers very accurate and precise cuts thanks to the computer numerical control software that is built into the saw itself. Here’s what I believe to be the best answer to the question, how do you cut plywood with a scroll saw.
First of all, know that scroll saws aren’t designed to cut wood in a smooth, uniform, clean, and even fashion. While they can generally make these cuts, there is always some amount of error – even “drift” in the wood – and it is almost impossible to create a perfect, clean cut out of each piece of stock. But with the scroll saw, you can essentially take any piece of stock and cut it perfectly straight and true. This is a much better solution than other methods, such as a jig saw or a band saw.
Second, know that you won’t get near perfect results by using a scroll saw. While it can generally do an excellent job of ripping, particularly with lighter woods, they simply are not designed for cutting and trimming thick woods, such as oak or maple. And if you use your scroll saw to cut thicker woods, you’ll need a bit more speed (and strength) than usual to maintain your accuracy, since wood is such a soft material. So if your project requires ripping heavy plywood, this is not the best choice for you. If your project requires trimming thick boards, however, then this might be just the ticket!
Third, scroll saws aren’t as cheap as their motor-driven cousins. The motor of a scroll saw works so that it automatically moves the blade across the wood-blocking surface, but you still have to pay good money to get the kind of quality that you want. The good news, however, is that this cost can be offset by the fact that these machines generally make fewer mistakes than their motor-driven cousins. This means that you will spend less time correcting inaccurate cuts and you will be more accurate overall. In other words, while the motor may not be as loud as an engine powering a truck, it is still loud enough to be a nuisance at times.
Finally, scroll saws are much harder to repair than their motor-driven cousins. If something does break on one of these machines, it usually requires some kind of repair, which could easily cost you an arm and a leg. Even if you do manage to fix your scroll saw in a timely fashion, it is often too late; a badly damaged scroll saw can’t be repaired and will have to be thrown out. On the other hand, a motor-driven woodworking machine will usually only need replacement parts or an overhaul if it ever breaks down.
When you are beginning woodworking, you should definitely consider a scroll saw. They have many advantages and disadvantages that you need to be aware of before making a final decision. Although they may seem difficult to use at first, a scroll saw is a good investment for anyone looking to start a woodworking business. As you progress, though, you may find that you prefer to use a motor-driven machine to maintain accuracy and to eliminate the frustrations of cutting wood by hand. As you become more experienced with woodworking, you will likely find that your preference for either type of machine will change, as it is with everything else in life.