The software I use for scroll saw patterns

Many of the readers of the Scrollsaw Workshop Blog have expressed interest in the software I use. The one tool I would never be without is Corel Draw. The software has a short learning curve to grasp the tools needed to create scroll saw patterns. If you want to get serious about making patterns I feel this is the single best choice you could make. Corel DrawX3 is not inexpensive but you get a lot for what you pay.

Product Description

CorelDraw Graphics Suite X3 is a breakthrough in design technologies. With more than 40 new features & over 400 enhancements, you've got a truly comprehensive graphics suite at your disposal. Tackle a wide variety of projects - from logo creation and Web graphics, to multi-page marketing brochures, or eye-catching signs. Its new features include a new bitmap-to-vector tracing tool, new photo-editing features, and enhancements in illustration and page layout. This suite combines design capabilities, ease-of-use, and affordability into a complete suite of tools that give you the confidence to be creative. Hints provide dynamic, context-sensitive tips and tricks as you work Design Collection offers 100 creatively varied templates, easily customized to suit specific needs Get insight from from CorelDRAW experts -- the new CorelDRAW Handbook showcases practical, real-world examples of accomplished designs and best practices Open and create password-protected PDFs, to exchange secure client files Support for RAW file format Increased compatibility with Adobe Illustrator, PhotoShop, Corel Paint Shop Pro, Microsoft Office, JPEG, and PDF

If you feel you can afford the investment in your hobby and you are willing to learn the software then try Corel Draw.

Get Corel Draw X3 Here

Free Hand Mirror Pattern

I wrote about this inlay technique in an earlier post. The clay has proven to be durable after a few weeks so I thought I would post the free scroll saw pattern for you to try.

You don't have to use the inlay technique. You could paint the back of the mirror and just let the paint show through the cut-out. If you choose to try the inlay check the archive of the blog for the earlier post for details.

This project requires that you make a bevel cut. The instruction with the pattern give the details. The bevel cut allows you to create a recess so you can install the mirror. 1/2 inch wood requires a 6.5 deg. bevel to allow the wood to recess 1/8 inch. You should make practice cut with your saw in scrap material to get the bevel where you want it. You should also test the fit of the mirror with practice material and adjust where you cut the bevel for a good fit.

The downloadable pattern includes the above designs plus a blank mirror. You could add someones initials to the blank for a great personalized gift.

The project requires a 4" round mirror. Woodcraft sells nice project mirrors at the following link. Use two-part epoxy to secure the mirror into the recess. http://www.woodcraft.com/family.aspx?familyid=1109

Another technique that I might try when I get time is epoxy inlay. Two-part epoxy can be colored and sanded. It might actually be an easier technique than the clay. If any of you try this let me know how it goes.

Have fun with this one and happy scrolling.

Free Hand Mirror Pattern