Scroll saw patterns are a smart way to make sure you get the right cut next time you saw. If you follow the lines of the pattern, then you can concentrate on sawing itself and you do not have to focus on cutting the lines correctly. When you work with wood, you can make your own scroll saw pattern or use someone else's, but the result will be the same - crisp, clean results.
Do you need a scroll saw pattern? Well, it depends on what you want to make. Most ornate designs require scroll saw patterns. For instance, if you want to make chairs with matching cut-outs on the back, or if you want to make matching jewelry boxes, it pays off to follow a pattern. Otherwise you are bound to make irregular objects. If you are trying to get creative, and just improvise a design, you might not need a pattern, but this is ill-advised. Saws are dangerous and the less you have to think about as you work, the more safe your fingers and arms will be. A scroll saw is definitely recommended if you want your creations to match.
There is a wide variety of woodworking objects you can make with a scroll saw pattern. You can carve initials to hang on the wall in a child's room. Or you could make small play blocks for a baby. You could make items for the kitchen like paper towel holders or apron hooks. You could even make ornate kitchen cabinet doors. You can make original signs to hang outside your home, welcoming guests. You could make elaborate bird houses. Whatever you want to make, a pattern probably already exists. You just have to find it.
Because there are so many scroll saw enthusiasts, there are plenty of places to share information and patterns. Many fans have started blogs and message boards online where you can get free scrollsaw plans. You can always visit your local home supply store and ask an employee for information. Often these mega-stores offer free demonstrations of the latest equipment, like a Hegner scrollsaw, as well as patterns. You could spend a Saturday morning learning a new technique and then try it out that same afternoon. It is very helpful to have an expert to answer your questions about what kind of blades to use and more. You want your work to look as professional as possible, so who better to help you than a professional.
When you follow a scroll saw pattern, be sure to cut directly over the pencil marks so they will not show up on your finished product. This is not as big of a deal if you are painting the wood afterwards, but following the pencil line exactly ensures an even cut everywhere you saw. Be extremely careful when you trace your pattern or template in pencil. Make sure it is perfect before you cut. It should look exactly the way you want it to look in pencil before you start woodworking. Using a scroll saw patterns and wood saws will save you costly time in mistakes in the long run because you will know what you are doing and will be able to cut quickly, albeit meticulously.
Greg Hansward frequently creates detailed articles on information related to woodworking saws. You can come across his abstracts on scroll saw patterns and wood saws at http://www.insidewoodworking.com
