Wednesday, March 31, 2010

Bunny Basket Scroll Saw Pattern

I wanted to design a basket that was a bit easier to cut for younger scrollers. This Bunny Basket only has two rings and the shape is an easy cut. If you are looking for something to make with your child or grandchild give this a try. It's just enough of a challenge that I think it will keep their interest and still be within their limits.

As many of you found out the email servers filled up today so i am extending the contest by one day. I keep getting email asking where the entry button is. It's on the blog and that's all the hints you will get. Hint, I moved it to the top of the blog for the last day. Darn I said no hints. Enter to win.

Thanks to all who wrote asking how I was feeling. I am 95% better now. Still a bit weak but getting back to form nicely now.

The email cup runneth over. I'll be honest. I will never get caught back up on the email at this point. After already being behind then spending four days in bed sick it's all over but the shouting. I'm going back through the email a little at a time and trying to get some answered but there are well over 1000 unanswered at this point. Some of the ones I am answering are short answers so i hope you will understand the brevity.



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Bill Keele has a RBI Hawk 226 VS Scroll Saw for sale.

RBI Hawk 226 VS. It has been used about 4 hours. It has the light with magnifier, variable speed foot control, posi-lock accessory, handicap wide-leg adapters, about 60 blades, two extra blade holders, all manuals and a couple of extra books. Asking $700.00 plus shipping. Shipping will be actual cost plus $1000.00 insurance. Contact me at drbkeele@hotmail.com I accept paypal. Bill.




Tuesday, March 30, 2010

Email server crashed and burned. Not really but it did fill up.

Okay you guys really do want to win the giveaway. I thought I had plenty of room set aside on the email server but you filled it up. I know many of you could not enter the contest today so I will extend the giveaway one more day. I have cleared the servers and the "Contest Entry" button should work now. Sorry for the trouble.

Psychedelic Mini Clock Scroll Saw Patterns. The giveaway is tomorrow. Make sure to enter. Details below.

I was just playing around with different shapes in Corel Draw tonight and out popped these three psychedelic mini clock patterns. They require the 1 7/16'' clock inserts. You could use the 1 7/16'' mini photo frames also. Either way you will be the only one on your block to have one. You might also be the only one on your block to want one. :)



I'm going to draw the next winner for "The New Scroll Saw Handbook" giveaway tomorrow 3/31/2010. Don't forget to enter by visiting the blog and finding the "Contest Entry" button. This really is a great book so get your entry in. I think I'll double the fun. If the blog can reach 4000 visits today I will give away two books. I normally get around 3000 visits a day so this should not be too hard. So if you want better odds of winning make sure you visit the blog today.

By the way if you already have this book enter anyway. I'll just give you a Amazon gift certificate in place of the book.

I think next month I will continue this same type of giveaway but this time it will be a 1 year subscription to Scroll Saw Woodworking and Crafts magazine. That should be fun. It's a great magazine with tons of patterns, tips and articles.

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Monday, March 29, 2010

Retired Fisherman Scroll Saw Pattern.




We are getting close to the next drawing for "The New Scroll Saw Handbook". Make sure you visit the blog and enter to win.



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Sunday, March 28, 2010

Clayton Boyer Wooden Clock Designs.



Clayton Boyer designs incredible wooden gear time pieces. After watching this video jump over to his website and check out what he has to offer. A bit of warning. These clocks are advanced level plans. The cutting of the parts is just the beginning. Assembly and adjustment could try the patience of a Saint. I built one several years ago and I'm ashamed to say it got the best of me. I got it cut but never was able to get the action reliable. It's a challenge I plan to revisit in retirement.

The piece featured in the video above is truly amazing. He does have simpler pieces if you think the challenge looks fun.

We are getting close to the next drawing for "The New Scroll Saw Handbook". Make sure you visit the blog and enter to win.

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Saturday, March 27, 2010

Home made scroll saw stand by Kenneth Van Winkle.

Hi guys, I have been under the weather with a bug of some type. I have not been out of bed for a couple days so of course I have not done much here. I wanted to do a post tonight and luckily Kenneth Van Winkle had sent me this article to share. There are several good tips here. Thanks Kenneth. I appreciate the help while I work on feeling better.





Don't forget to visit the blog and enter the giveaway daily. The drawing will be held 3/31/2010 so get your entries in now. Just find the "Contest Entry" button and put your first and last name in the email.

Kenneth Van Winkle:
Here’s another idea to possibly share regarding scroll saw mounting options:


I wanted to mount my saw, but didn’t fully agree with most of the commercial options available...As other people have done, custom building one seemed to be the best way to get the desired results...In searching the internet, I ran across a few different do-it-yourself designs, but once again, none of them seemed to be exactly what I was looking for.



- The first thing to point out is that this is a three-legged design...Research revealed that a three legged stand, for any purpose , not just mounting a scroll saw, provides the most stability (the commercial stand for the Dewalt uses the same concept)...Research also revealed that a heavier base provided a better mounting surface for a scroll saw; or any other machine that generates vibration/cyclic movement...Some say that a lighter stand has a tendency to “walk” across the shop floor...The three-legged design combined with the added weight provides an extremely stable and sturdy mounting base that doesn’t move while the saw is in operation.

- The saw is mounted on top of a solid piece of wood (plywood has a tendency to amplify vibration more than solid wood)...The mounting surface is covered with carpeting, and then carpet foam padding is placed between the carpeted surface and the bottom of the saw...The saw is firmly bolted to the mounting surface, but rubber washers, along with other steel washers, were used on both ends of the bolts to help dampen vibration. One item to mention here is that the idea is to provide enough anti-vibration and noise dampening, without compromising the firmness of the mount...If the interface between the stand and the saw is too “squishy” and “soft”, the saw could be allowed to move too much in relation to the stand that it would cancel out the reason for mounting the saw in the first place.




- Several sources mention tilting the saw slightly forward to provide a better working angle (both for viewing, and for comfort)...This particular design uses a 5 degree tilt (which is coincidently the same angle used to cut and mount the legs)...Research indicated that a variety of angles could be used; anywhere from absolutely level to as much as 30 or more degrees...It would appear that operator preference dictates the actual angle that is used ...I chose 5 degrees, because it provided the ability to take advantage of tilting the saw while not over defying gravity (I didn’t want to continually push uphill too much, and I also wanted the ability to take my hands off of the work piece without it sliding off the table).

Other than the stand, the photos also illustrate a couple of other tips that I’ve picked up on.

- I rigged up an aquarium pump to replace the insufficient blower that came with this particular model of saw...The pump sits upon a piece of carpeting to help reduce noise...I was unsuccessful in obtaining any specific information regarding the actual size of aquarium pump to use for this purpose...Once again, I think this is simply a matter of personal preference...Initially, I used a pump rated for a 10 gallon tank (pretty much the smallest available), but found it to be just borderline effective...Rather than using trial and error by upgrading one size at a time, I decided to skip up a couple of sizes and use a pump rated for 60 gallons...This model of pump provides many configuration options, as it has two outlet ports and greater airflow than the smaller models...I configured mine by using both outlet ports; routing them trough a “T” fitting...If one of the outlet ports is left open, the pump generates more noise than if both are used...The tubing is attached to the upper arm of the saw using some adhesive 3M cable routing clips...I installed a needle valve that was provided with the pump at the point where the tubing enters the flexible blower tube that came with the saw...It provides easy access to adjust the air flow while the saw is in operation...The flexible blower arm was repositioned and attached to the bracket degined for the hold-dwon (shich I don’t use)...It allows the blower the added reach to blow the dust backward, away from the operator.

- As the blade slot in the table on the Dremel is relatively large (at least from side-to-side), a sheet of thin hardboard was attached to the tabletop with carpet tape...A much smaller blade hole was then available to prevent smaller pieces from falling through the table, and to provide a surface that is just slightly larger than the original table, without flopping over the edges...As a disadvantage, the table cannot be tilted without modifying the design (but then, I haven’t yet cut anything that required the table to be tilted)...Now instead of waxing the cast iron table, I use spray pledge on the hardboard, and maintain a clean and slick work surface.

- Not shown in the photos, I use a footswitch and a magnifying lamp mounted to a sawhorse set up next to the saw stand...Both of these items are highly recommended by various sources as options...However, after having used them, I’ve found them to be almost essential to provide a certain degree of accuracy and control while cutting.







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Wednesday, March 24, 2010

Easter Cross Scroll Saw Pattern.


Don't forget to visit the blog and make your daily entry for the giveaway. Look for the "Contest Entry" button and give yourself a chance to win "The New Scroll Saw Handbook". Next drawing 3/31/2010.



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Monday, March 22, 2010

Congratulations Tom Mehlhoff

I did the first drawing for "The New Scroll Saw Handbook" giveaway. Tom Mehlhoff of North Dakota was randomly selected form nearly 2000 entries. Congrats Tom and I hope you enjoy the book. All entries are still valid for the next drawing March 31, 2010. Remember to keep entering everyday.

Sunday, March 21, 2010

Give yourself a pat on the back.

Does your boss take you for granted? Take matters in your own hands and give yourself a pat on the back. This "Pat on the back" stick is 18'' long for easy access to those hard to reach areas.

The stick also comes in handy for those braggadocios co-workers. After you have endured hours of their self-congratulation offer them the "Pat on the back" stick.

Don't forget to visit the blog and find the "Contest Entry" button for your chance to win "The New Scroll Saw Handbook". Enter once every day.



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Kenneth Van Winkle shares his blade holder.

Roll from Michaels craft store.

BIC pens with the ink cartridge removed.

Kenneth Van Winkle:
Here's something that I came up with. I used Bic pens (with the ink cartridges removed, they become a nice sized tube for the blades). The caps have vent holes, but the blades stay in as long as the pen caps are not oriented with a considerable down angle. Labels were printed for each type/size (Flying Dutchman are RED, Olson are BLUE, and anything else is BLACK).

Labels are attached indicating the blade size, the drill hole size, the teeth-per-inch, and the actual blade width/thickness measurements (TPI and thickness labels are located on the backside of the holder that is seen in the pictures). I reinforced adhesion of the labels with the clear packing tape that we use to help lubricate the blades while cutting.

Depending on blade size, they can hold a few dozen blades, but probably won't hold a gross. A needlework roll found at Michaels provides individual pockets for each pen (and, it also has a flap to cover the vented caps).

As I'm not a production cutter, I didn't need or want one of the other large diameter tubular systems that can hold multiple-grosses of blades. I guess this system could also work as a ready supply for the production cutter (the other tube systems could be used to store the stockpile, while this smaller stash could be used to provide a ready supply; especially for the traveling scroller).

It is simply a system that provides clear organization for a few dozen of each blade which provides easy identification during blade selection. The roll was around $7 and the pack of pens cost a couple dollars. For under $10 you have a nice blade system.

Thanks for sharing your system Kenneth.



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Easter Basket Scroll Saw Pattern

This pattern works well as a small Easter basket. If you stack cut the parts you can cut it in two or three hours. The construction is slot and tab for easy assembly. I used 1/4'' maple for the one in the picture.

I did the first drawing for The New Scroll Saw Handbook today. I have sent an email to the winner. I will post the winner as soon as I get a reply. All the entries are still good for the next drawing. Keep visiting the blog and entering for your chance to win the book. Remember only enter once a day.




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Saturday, March 20, 2010

Easter Eggs


I will be doing a drawing sometime tomorrow to give away "The New Scroll Saw Handbook". Make sure you visit the blog and find the "Contest Entry" button and get your entry in. This is a bonus giveaway and all the entries will stay in the running until month end.


Safety Reminder. The picture below is a reminder of what can happen when improperly using a forstner bit on the drill press. Forstner bits are often used to drill holes for mini clock and frame inserts. The bits are large and cause a lot of torque on the wood. The reader that sent this picture wanted me to remind everyone that it is important to use the bit before cutting the pattern. This gives you enough wood to clamp the piece to the drill press table. If possible you should use forstner bits at slower speeds. Thanks Jutta for the reminder.

Ouch!

Forstner Bit

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Friday, March 19, 2010

I Like Simple!



I like to pretend that these simple patterns are are my attempt at minimalist chic design but I'm really just a cheapskate. I can not stand to throw away even the smallest scraps of wood. Especially wood as wonderful as this Ambrosia Maple.

I use a 50mm mini frame insert for this pattern. I include the Woodcraft part number with the pattern. You need a 1 7/8'' forstner bit to drill the hole for the frame insert.

You want to cut the outside of this pattern very accurately. The eye will notice flaws in the circle very easily so cut on the line.

Don't forget to visit the blog and find the "Contest Entry" button for your chance to win "The New Scroll Saw Handbook". I'm going to draw the first winner this weekend so get your entries in.





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Thursday, March 18, 2010

60 second audio tip - It's all about proportion.

Press button for audio

Figure

The giveaway is going great. Hundreds of entries to win "The New Scroll Saw Handbook". Keep entering to win. I had mentioned earlier that I might draw more than one winner. I think I will do the first drawing this weekend. All the entries will stay in the pool until the end of the month. Visit the blog and find the "Contest Entry" button to submit your daily entry. Remember only one entry per day. If you are using gmail or some other online email client and the button will not work for you let me know and I'll make sure you get entered.

The Scrollsaw Workshop is primarily supported by donations. If you enjoy this Blog and would like to make a donation please click this link. Your support is greatly appreciated.
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Wednesday, March 17, 2010

Something I have never seen done before.

This is an interesting video I found on YouTube. I'm not sure how practical it is but it's interesting never the less. I have never seen anyone try to sharpen scroll saw blades. If it works it might come in handy when you are about to finish a project and run out of blades. I think I'll give this a try this week just for fun.


If you are reading this in the email newsletter you may not see the video. Please visit the blog and watch it there.

Don't forget to find the "Contest Entry" button on the blog and enter to win the Scroll Saw Handbook. Enter once a day for best chance to win.


The Scrollsaw Workshop is primarily supported by donations. If you enjoy this Blog and would like to make a donation please click this link. Your support is greatly appreciated.
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Monday, March 15, 2010

Word Art Patterns


A few more word art patterns for you guys to cut.

Don't forget to find the "Contest Entry" button on the blog and enter to win the Scroll Saw Handbook. Enter once a day for best chance to win.



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Sunday, March 14, 2010

Matt Dickson Blade Holder Design



Matt Dickson was kind enough to share his blade holder design with all of us. Matt came up with this nice looking design using 1'' PVC pipe and a small section of standard 2x4. It's easy to build and looks great also. Thanks Matt.

Don't forget to visit the blog and make your entry to WIN the "New Scroll Saw Handbook" by Patrick Spielman. The entry button will be moving around the blog so keep looking.




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Humming Bird Tall Clock Scroll Saw Pattern






This clock stands 10'' tall and 4'' wide. It requires a 2 3/4" clock insert. Woodcraft #142320. The hole for the clock is 2 3/8'' in diameter. For the best clock fit use a 2 3/8'' fostner bit to drill the hole for the clock. If you don't have one that big it's fine to cut the hole with the scroll saw. Just be careful not to over cut the hole or the clock won't fit snug. Cut it tight and sand to fit.




WIN THIS BOOK

Read the direction. The red indicates IMPORTANT INFO.

HOW TO ENTER:
Each day there will be a button somewhere on my blog that say's "Contest Entry". Find and click the button. This will open your email client. Simply type your first and last name in the email and click send. Do not change the "Subject Field".

You can enter one time a day. Duplicates the same day will be deleted.
Enter every day for the best chance to win.

The button will move to different places from time to time. Keep looking.

I will randomly select a winner the last day of the month. More often if I can but at least once a month.

I will ship the book anywhere in the world that Amazon ships. This includes most of the world. I wanted to do a giveaway that would include my readers all over the world.

If you get an email stating that the contest deadline has passed just ignore it. It will take a couple days for the auto-responder to update.

Good luck and enter often.

The Scrollsaw Workshop is primarily supported by donations. If you enjoy this Blog and would like to make a donation please click this link. Your support is greatly appreciated.
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Thursday, March 11, 2010

St. Patrick's Day Jewelry


St. Patrick's Day is March 17. This pattern book has four different St. Patrick's Day jewelry designs. You will need 1/8'' thick stock for this project. I used a #2 blade for the lettering but you might be more comfortable using a spiral blade. If you followed my earlier posts on Inlace inlay material then you may recognize the possibilities here. A nice green inlay would look great with this project.

I know many of you enjoy cutting advanced fretwork but every once in a while it's fun to cut the 10 minute project. It's also surprising how profitable these simple projects can be if you sell at craft shows or even to family and friends.





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CONTEST Giveaway. Win this great book.

This has been my favorite scroll saw book for years. This book is full of helpful information. If you would like to receive this book from Amazon just enter and win this giveaway.

HOW TO ENTER:
Each day there will be a button somewhere on my blog that say's "Contest Entry". Find and click the button. This will open your email client. Simply type your first and last name in the email and click send.

You can enter one time a day. Duplicates the same day will be deleted.
Enter every day for the best chance to win.

The button will move to different places from time to time. Keep looking.

I will randomly select a winner the last day of the month. More often if I can but at least once a month.

I will ship the book anywhere in the world that Amazon ships. This includes most of the world. I wanted to do a giveaway that would include my readers all over the world.

If you get an email stating that the contest deadline has passed just ignore it. It will take a couple days for the auto-responder to update.

Good luck and enter often.

Tuesday, March 9, 2010

Kokopelli Box Scroll Saw Pattern


Kokopelli is a native American god of fertility. Also known as a prankster, healer and story teller. Kokopelli dates back over 3000 years in the American southwest. He is usually depicted as a hunched back flute player painted on cave walls.

This 4 inch box is easy to cut. I used 1/2'' ambrosia maple and 3/8'' blood wood for my box. Any nicely contrasting woods will look great.




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