I'm happy tonight. My Wildcats are in the Final Four.

Part of the graphic in this pattern is courtesy of vectorportal.com.  

Aaron Harrison hit a tough 3 pointer with 2.6 seconds left to give the Kentucky Wildcats a Final Four appearance.  I have lived in Lexington Ky for 35 years and I bleed blue when it comes to basketball. The Cats have been on a roll for the last few weeks. They are easily playing their best basketball of the year when it counts. UK starts five freshmen and at times this season they looked like a young inexperienced team. Coach Cal has been saying all year that he believed this team would eventually come together and play up to their talent. With wins over four very good teams in this tournament they enter the Final Four as the lowest seed.

We will be playing Wisconsin in the Final Four. They are also playing very well and are the higher seed. I just want to wish the Cats the best of luck.
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. Make A Donation

If you would like to have all the patterns in the Scrollsaw Workshop catalog you can buy the first six years DVD and the 2013 update DVD at this link. DVD #1 is $20 and contains over 1,100 patterns. The 2013 update DVD is $7.50 and has another 178 patterns.

Welcome to my Pad Scroll Saw Pattern.

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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. Make A Donation

If you would like to have all the patterns in the Scrollsaw Workshop catalog you can buy the first six years DVD and the 2013 update DVD at this link. DVD #1 is $20 and contains over 1,100 patterns. The 2013 update DVD is $7.50 and has another 178 patterns.

The Legend has Retired Trophy.

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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. Make A Donation

If you would like to have all the patterns in the Scrollsaw Workshop catalog you can buy the first six years DVD and the 2013 update DVD at this link. DVD #1 is $20 and contains over 1,100 patterns. The 2013 update DVD is $7.50 and has another 178 patterns.

You Make Me Happy.

Here is a pattern for those of you who like to cut word art.  

We have been crazy busy at work the last several days. I have been working all kinds of overtime so the blog has taken a back seat to work. Tonight is my last night of stand by for a few days so at least I should have some time at night to get caught back up a little. Thanks for your patience.   

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. Make A Donation

If you would like to have all the patterns in the Scrollsaw Workshop catalog you can buy the first six years DVD and the 2013 update DVD at this link. DVD #1 is $20 and contains over 1,100 patterns. The 2013 update DVD is $7.50 and has another 178 patterns.

Jesus and Cross Scroll Saw Pattern.

The original vector for the design of this pattern is courtesy vectorportal.com.

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. Make A Donation

If you would like to have all the patterns in the Scrollsaw Workshop catalog you can buy the first six years DVD and the 2013 update DVD at this link. DVD #1 is $20 and contains over 1,100 patterns. The 2013 update DVD is $7.50 and has another 178 patterns.

Another Free Scroll Saw Pattern from Sue Mey

Click image to visit the free download page.

Sue Mey is offering another free pattern from her wonderful collection. She ask if I would pass this along to my readers. As always I am thrilled to show her work and highly recommend that you visit her site. Take advantage of the time you are on her site to look around at all the great patterns she has available.  One note. When you go to the free download page Sue will ask for your email address. She has a posted privacy notice about how your private information is used. Just so you know here is her policy.

Privacy Notice:
This policy covers how we use your personal information. We take your privacy seriously and will take all measures to protect your personal information.
Any personal information received will only be used to fill your order. We will not sell or redistribute your information to anyone.

From Sue:
Mother's Day this year is on Sunday, May 11th. I have added a new pattern for you to download at no charge. Cut the plaque directly in 1/2" to 3/4" (12mm to 19mm) hardwood. Alternatively use 1/8" to 1/4" (3mm to 6mm) birch ply for the patterns and back the overlays with thicker hardwood of a dark color.
FREE029 Pansies for Mom/Mum $0.00

Visit the Special Offers category for pattern sets at reduced prices and a great deal on seven digital books: 40 Christian crosses, 44 Christmas projects, 40 Boxes, 46 Angel-themed projects, 50 Signs & Plaques, 50 Clocks and 40 Love & friends patterns.
Patterns purchased from my website are conveniently delivered as downloads to your computer for immediate printing and use. All patterns are available in vector format on request.
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. Make A Donation

If you would like to have all the patterns in the Scrollsaw Workshop catalog you can buy the first six years DVD and the 2013 update DVD at this link. DVD #1 is $20 and contains over 1,100 patterns. The 2013 update DVD is $7.50 and has another 178 patterns.

Scroll Saw Piggy-bank.

This little piggy-bank is cut from three sections and glued up. The plastic windows are also cut on the scroll saw from .050 inch thick Plaskolite. You can find sheets of the plastic at most hardware stores for around $3 a sheet. Instructions for cutting the windows are included in the pattern.

Note: I modified the pattern after I cut the demo to remove the ear piece from the center section. This will give separation of the ears and should look a little better.  

  
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. Make A Donation

If you would like to have all the patterns in the Scrollsaw Workshop catalog you can buy the first six years DVD and the 2013 update DVD at this link. DVD #1 is $20 and contains over 1,100 patterns. The 2013 update DVD is $7.50 and has another 178 patterns.

Welcome to Bear Country Scroll Saw Pattern.

 
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. Make A Donation

If you would like to have all the patterns in the Scrollsaw Workshop catalog you can buy the first six years DVD and the 2013 update DVD at this link. DVD #1 is $20 and contains over 1,100 patterns. The 2013 update DVD is $7.50 and has another 178 patterns.

Jesus Desk Signs.

There are eight Jesus desk signs in this pattern book. Cut them from 3/4" Thick wood.  
 
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. Make A Donation

If you would like to have all the patterns in the Scrollsaw Workshop catalog you can buy the first six years DVD and the 2013 update DVD at this link. DVD #1 is $20 and contains over 1,100 patterns. The 2013 update DVD is $7.50 and has another 178 patterns.

Nested Elephant Scroll Saw Pattern.

I have seen several of these nested animal patterns on the web. I thought I would give one a try. It's a simple pattern to cut and you can use a 3/4 inch board. The baby is cut from the same board and slides out from the mother.
 
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. Make A Donation

If you would like to have all the patterns in the Scrollsaw Workshop catalog you can buy the first six years DVD and the 2013 update DVD at this link. DVD #1 is $20 and contains over 1,100 patterns. The 2013 update DVD is $7.50 and has another 178 patterns.

Shadow Box Scroll Saw Pattern.

This pattern requires two sheets of 12 inch X 12 inch X 1/4 inch thick Baltic Birch ply. The bird and tree patterns are cut from one sheet then painted black. Standoffs are glued to the back to hold the tree away from the backer board. A 1 inch deep frame is made to hold the project. I did not include instructions for creating the frame. I'll leave that to you depending on the tools you have available.
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. Make A Donation

If you would like to have all the patterns in the Scrollsaw Workshop catalog you can buy the first six years DVD and the 2013 update DVD at this link. DVD #1 is $20 and contains over 1,100 patterns. The 2013 update DVD is $7.50 and has another 178 patterns.

Free beautiful scroll saw pattern from Sheila Landry Designs.

Sheila Landry has posted another wonderful free sample pattern. She asked if I would pass it along to you all. As always I am more than happy to show Sheila's work. There is something very unique about Sheila's designs. Her patterns have a style and beauty that is often absent in fretwork art. If you want to cut a project for a gift then I would recommend Sheila's patterns over anyone else in our hobby.  

I challenge anyone to visit Sheila's web site and not get lost in time. Every page has pattern after pattern that stands out. Every time a new page loads you will see another pattern you want. I have known Sheila for a few years and I can tell you one more thing. She cares about her customers and the scroll saw community. 

Do me and the scroll saw community a favor. Visit Sheila Landry Designs right now and buy a pattern. We have to support designers like Sheila. She is a treasure that the community must protect. You can find patterns for under $5 and most of them are under $6. That's less than the cost of a movie and you are going to get way more entertainment value.

I just checked. It's the Lego Movie, 300 Rise of an empire or Need for Speed. No way are you going to enjoy any of those movies more than cutting one of Sheila's patterns. Let's make Sheila's weekend and see how many patterns we can buy. I'm going to buy one right now.

UPDATE: Here is the pattern I just bought from Sheila. My wife loves candles so this one will be for her. The checkout process was flawless. I paid with Paypal  but I had Visa, Mastercard and Discover options also.

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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. Make A Donation

If you would like to have all the patterns in the Scrollsaw Workshop catalog you can buy the first six years DVD and the 2013 update DVD at this link. DVD #1 is $20 and contains over 1,100 patterns. The 2013 update DVD is $7.50 and has another 178 patterns.

Please help. Rescue your best friend.

If you have the means to adopt an animal then please visit your local animal shelter. There are thousands of animals needing a loving home. Yes, bringing an animal into your home will require some work and expense. The benefits can be priceless if the match is right.    

Make sure you do your homework. Consider what your new pet will need from you and what you want from the pet. If your lifestyle is slow and relaxed then bringing a high energy dog into the house may not be a great fit. Consider these things before you go the the shelter. It's very easy to fall in love with an animal once you see his/her big eyes looking out of the cage. The people at the shelter can usually give you feedback on the nature of the animal.

Take your time and find a friend to share your home with.

 

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. Make A Donation

If you would like to have all the patterns in the Scrollsaw Workshop catalog you can buy the first six years DVD and the 2013 update DVD at this link. DVD #1 is $20 and contains over 1,100 patterns. The 2013 update DVD is $7.50 and has another 178 patterns.

The only easy day was yesterday. US Navy Seals.

There are a few small interior cuts in this pattern. Take your time and use a #3 blade for the smallest cuts.

I got lots of feedback from yesterdays cyclone dust collection post. I know there is a lot of interest in keeping our shops clean and healthy. Dust collection is actually a pretty complicated subject. I just want to make it clear that I am by no means an expert on dust collection. I have a small shop and I just want to keep it as clean as possible. I want to keep the air in the shop as breathable as possible on a budget I can afford. I did take a class in dust collection a few years ago. It was very interesting but would have also been very expensive to implement most of the instructors ideas. He was more into industrial and large commercial shop.

I'm going top continue to research small shop dust collections and pass along what I learn. Like all journeys of education I'm sure I will get some things wrong. If you see something on my blog please feel free to write and tell me your thoughts. As always I won't be able to answer all the emails but I'll do my best to read them.  I want to thank everyone who shared tips with me yesterday. I am sure I'll be able to use a few of them.
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. Make A Donation

If you would like to have all the patterns in the Scrollsaw Workshop catalog you can buy the first six years DVD and the 2013 update DVD at this link. DVD #1 is $20 and contains over 1,100 patterns. The 2013 update DVD is $7.50 and has another 178 patterns.

Best $50 I have spent in my shop.

One of the jobs I hate the most in my shop is emptying the dust collection bag. I have a small 1HP Jet dust collection system. I run it to my planner, table saw, drill press and the jointer. These are the tools that put out the most dust in the shop. I have dedicated shop vacs for the other smaller tools.

I almost always wait too long to empty the bag so it fills up into the filter section of the machine. When I pull the bag the dust goes every place. Even with a dust mask and shop apron I get covered with dust.

One upgrade I have put off for years is a cyclone separation system for the dust collector. Last weekend I went to Woodcraft and purchased the Trash Can Cyclone Lid. I wish I had bought this thing years ago. It works great. Makes the dust collector more efficient and all I have to do is empty the trash can most of the time. Technically the trash can lid cyclone separator is not a true Cyclone. I'll explain this more later.

What is a cyclone dust seprator and how does it work? A cyclone adds a second stage to the dust collection system. It collects the heavier dust particles before they reach the filter on the dust collector. This improves the efficiency because it helps keep the filter from being clogged. Another benefit is that the second stage is generally easier to empty.

A true cyclone also has two stages. The top tornado shaped part takes the dust in the air stream and swirls it into the shape of a tornado. The heavier dust is thrown against the side by centrifugal force. The dust then falls into a collection barrel below the cyclone. The air stream changes direction before it reaches the barrel and moves back up and over to the dust collector. Hopefully most the dust stays in the barrel and the exhausted air is mostly clean. 

The trash can cyclone lid differs because it is only one stage. The dust enters the in port and travels through an elbow which cause the air stream to swirl. The heavier dust then falls to the bottom of the trash can. The difference from a true cyclone is that the air in the trash can swirls all the way to the bottom. This causes the dust particles that have fallen to the bottom to be disturbed and possibly exit the can in the exhausted air stream. It's simply not as efficient as a true cyclone.

Okay so why did I buy the trash can lid cyclone if it's not as good as a true cyclone? Because it's much cheaper and I was not sure if I needed more. Now that I have seen how well it works I'm happy with it.  The cost was modest for the benefit. The lid was $33 and I think I paid $20 for the trash can. It only took minutes to add it to my dust collector.

I tested it with my planner. The planner is a dust monster. I estimate that over 90% of the particles went into the trash can. I normally have to empty the dust collector bag every month. I'm eager to see how long it will take to fill now. Emptying the trash can will be a breeze. I plan to do more homework on dust collection and maybe I'll be convinced to make the investment in a true cyclone. Right now I'm thrilled so we will see what happens. I'll keep you updated.

 The video below is from Mark Spagnuolo(The Wood Whisperer.) Mark does a shootout of three different cyclones. They are all for connecting to a shop vac instead of a full size dust collection system. If you use a shop vac on your tools I think you will find the video interesting. Check it out. Also if you are not familiar with Mark and his web site do your self a favor and check him out. 

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. Make A Donation

If you would like to have all the patterns in the Scrollsaw Workshop catalog you can buy the first six years DVD and the 2013 update DVD at this link. DVD #1 is $20 and contains over 1,100 patterns. The 2013 update DVD is $7.50 and has another 178 patterns.

Honda Goldwing Scroll Saw Pattern.

I did this for someone who needed it. I thought a few of you might like it also. For you Honda experts out there I know it is not perfectly accurate but I had to make compromises to get it done. :)
   

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. Make A Donation

If you would like to have all the patterns in the Scrollsaw Workshop catalog you can buy the first six years DVD and the 2013 update DVD at this link. DVD #1 is $20 and contains over 1,100 patterns. The 2013 update DVD is $7.50 and has another 178 patterns.