I have received many requests to design a fairy door. For some reason, I have never gotten around to it. When I got another request today I decided I better get one done.

I kept it pretty simple. The door slats are 1/8" thick Baltic birch plywood. The rest is hardwood.

The door stands 7.5 inches tall. Just big enough for your average size fairy. Don't forget to charge rent and get a deposit. Faries are sneaky.

Some people put these Fairy doors outside at the bottom of a tree. If you do that make sure you give it a good spar urethane finish. Also, remember to use outdoor rated glue. Titebond II is a good choice.

As you can see there are not many parts. When you cut the door slats make sure you follow the instructions. The hinges are small parts. You will want a zero clearance so the parts don't fall and get lost. I piece of blue painters tape over the hole makes a quick and easy zero clearance.

I have a question:

Clockwise, counter-clockwise or Both? I have thought about this question many times and have never decided if there is a correct answer.

The question is. Is there a valid reason to cut a scroll saw pattern in the clockwise or counter-clockwise direction? I cut counter-clockwise 90 percent of the time. I'm asking about 90-degree cuts. There are reasons to cut one direction or the other for beveled cuts but what about flat cuts?

I think I cut counter-clockwise simply because it is my habit. I have asked myself if cutting counter-clockwise is more accurate because of the direction of the blade drift. I cut more accurate when cutting counter-clockwise but that may just be because I do it more.

When I get asked this question I usually say to pick a direction and stay with it as much as possible to help build muscle memory. It never hurts to practice cutting in the opposite direction some times just to be more proficient.

Have any of you ever heard a theory about cutting one direction or the other? Email me.

If you want to participate in a poll click the image below to answer a one question online poll. I'll show the results when I get them.

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Inlay with a 1" Forstner Bit.

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