Fret Saws & Scroll Saws

About Fret Saws & Scroll Saws

Fret saws and scroll saws are precision power tools designed for cutting intricate curves, patterns and detailed shapes in wood, plastic and other thin materials. Named after their hand tool predecessor, these bench-mounted machines use a fine, reciprocating blade that moves up and down at high speed, allowing for exceptional control when following complex cutting lines. Unlike band saws which use a continuous loop blade, scroll saws feature a straight blade held under tension between upper and lower arms, making them ideal for creating delicate fretwork, marquetry, intarsia and decorative woodworking projects.

The key advantage of a scroll saw is its ability to make internal cuts without having to work from the edge of your material. By drilling a small starter hole, you can detach the blade, thread it through the hole, and reattach it to cut out interior sections – perfect for creating pierced designs, lettering and complex patterns. Modern scroll saws come with variable speed control, allowing you to adjust the cutting speed to suit different materials and blade types, whilst features like tilting tables enable bevel cuts up to 45 degrees for three-dimensional projects.

At TooledUp.com, we stock a range of fret saws and scroll saws from trusted brands including Draper, Dremel, Einhell and Sealey. Whether you're a professional cabinet maker, a model maker, or a hobbyist woodworker, these versatile machines offer the precision and control needed for detailed cutting work. Many models include useful extras such as integrated dust blowers to keep your cutting line visible, work lights for improved visibility, and flexible blade tensioning systems for quick blade changes.

Jargon Buster

• Reciprocating Blade: A straight saw blade that moves rapidly up and down rather than rotating. This motion provides superior control for intricate cutting compared to continuous-loop blades.
• Throat Depth: The distance from the blade to the rear of the saw's frame, typically ranging from 400mm to 500mm on domestic models. This determines the maximum width of material you can cut from the edge.
• Stroke Length: The vertical distance the blade travels during each up-and-down cycle, usually measured in millimetres. Longer strokes generally provide faster cutting but may sacrifice some precision.
• Variable Speed Control: A feature allowing you to adjust the number of strokes per minute (SPM), typically ranging from 400 to 1,600 SPM. Lower speeds suit harder materials and metal, whilst higher speeds are better for softwoods.
• Pinned vs Pinless Blades: Pinned blades have a small crossbar at each end for quick mounting, whilst pinless (plain-end) blades require blade clamps but offer greater versatility and access to tighter curves.
• Table Tilt: The ability to angle the work table, usually up to 45 degrees left or right, enabling bevel cuts and angled joinery work.

Who Uses Fret Saws & Scroll Saws?

• Cabinet Makers and Joiners: For creating decorative inlays, ornamental fretwork and detailed joinery components
• Model Makers: Cutting precise parts for architectural models, railway layouts and display pieces
• Musical Instrument Makers (Luthiers): Creating intricate soundhole rosettes, decorative inlays and delicate bracing patterns
• Toy and Puzzle Makers: Cutting jigsaw puzzles, wooden toys and educational items with complex interlocking parts
• Sign Makers: Producing cut-out lettering and decorative wooden signage
• Craft Workers and Artisans: Making decorative items, jewellery boxes, ornaments and bespoke giftware
• Woodworking Enthusiasts and Hobbyists: Pursuing marquetry, intarsia, ornamental scrollwork and fine woodworking projects
• Educators and Workshop Tutors: Teaching precision cutting techniques in schools, colleges and community workshops

How to Choose the Right Fret Saws & Scroll Saws

Motor Power and Speed Range: Look for machines with adequate power for your intended materials. Most domestic scroll saws run on 230V UK mains power with motors between 80W and 125W. Variable speed control is essential, with a range of approximately 400-1,600 strokes per minute giving you flexibility across different materials – slower speeds for metals and plastics, faster speeds for softwoods.

Throat Depth and Cutting Capacity: The throat depth determines how far from the edge you can cut. Standard models offer 400-405mm throat depth, which suits most hobbyist and small professional work. Also check the maximum cutting thickness – typically 50-57mm for wood – to ensure it matches your project requirements.

Table Size and Tilt Function: A larger, stable work table provides better support for your workpieces. Cast aluminium tables offer durability and flatness. Most quality scroll saws feature tables that tilt up to 45 degrees in both directions for bevel cutting, with clear angle markings for accurate setup.

Blade Changing System: Quick-release blade clamps or tensioning levers make blade changes faster and less frustrating, particularly important when making internal cuts that require frequent blade removal. Consider whether the saw accepts pinned blades, pinless blades, or both – pinless systems offer greater blade choice and tighter radius cutting.

Vibration and Noise Control: Better quality scroll saws feature improved vibration dampening, making them more comfortable for extended use and providing cleaner cuts. Brands like Draper and Einhell incorporate features to reduce operational vibration and noise levels.

Additional Features: Look for practical extras including adjustable dust blowers to keep your cutting line visible, integrated work lights, dust extraction ports for workshop vacuum connection, and hold-down guards to keep material flat against the table. Some models from Einhell and Sealey offer particularly good value with comprehensive feature sets.

Popular Accessories

• Scroll Saw Blades: Available in various tooth configurations and sizes for different materials – stock a variety of pinned and pinless blades for wood, metal and plastic
• Blade Assortment Sets: Convenient starter packs containing multiple blade types for different applications
• Workshop Vacuum/Dust Extractor: Connect to your scroll saw's dust port for improved visibility and a cleaner working environment
• Magnifying Lamp: Provides illumination and magnification for intricate cutting work
• Pattern Paper and Transfer Methods: For applying designs to your workpieces accurately
• Masking Tape and Spray Adhesive: For temporarily attaching patterns to workpieces
• Scroll Saw Stand or Cabinet: Purpose-built stands that position your saw at a comfortable working height with storage below
• Blade Storage Cases: Keep your blade collection organised and protected
• Push Sticks and Hold-Downs: Additional safety equipment for controlling small workpieces
• Sanding Attachments: Some models accommodate auxiliary sanding drums for smoothing curved edges

Safety Information

Whilst scroll saws are among the safer power tools due to their small, enclosed blade and downward cutting action, proper safety practices remain essential. Always wear appropriate eye protection to guard against fine dust and small material particles. The HSE recommends dust extraction or adequate ventilation when cutting wood and manufactured boards, particularly MDF which produces harmful fine dust.

Keep fingers well clear of the blade path – the reciprocating action can cause painful injuries even with the small blade. Never reach over or behind the blade whilst the machine is running. Ensure your scroll saw is properly secured to a stable workbench or stand before use, as vibration can cause unsecured machines to move.

Always disconnect the machine from the mains supply before changing blades or making adjustments. Check that blade tension is correctly set before starting work – loose blades can break or deflect, whilst over-tensioned blades may snap. Maintain a clean work area, removing offcuts and dust regularly to prevent them interfering with your work or creating slip hazards.

When cutting small pieces, use push sticks or holding devices to keep hands at a safe distance. Ensure your UK 230V scroll saw is plugged into a properly earthed socket, and consider using an RCD (residual current device) for additional electrical protection, particularly in workshop environments.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between a fret saw and a scroll saw?

The terms are often used interchangeably in the UK. Historically, "fret saw" referred to the manual hand tool with a deep U-shaped frame, whilst "scroll saw" describes the powered bench-top version. Today, both names commonly refer to the electric machine, though "scroll saw" is more widely used in power tool contexts.

Can scroll saws cut metal and plastic as well as wood?

Yes, with the appropriate blade fitted. Scroll saws can cut thin non-ferrous metals like aluminium, brass and copper, as well as various plastics and acrylics. Use slower speeds for harder materials and metal-cutting blades with finer teeth. Always check your model's specifications and use appropriate blades for non-wood materials.

How thick a material can a scroll saw cut?

Most domestic scroll saws can cut wood up to 50-60mm thick, depending on the model. The Draper FS405V and Einhell scroll saws we stock typically handle 50-57mm in softwood. Hardwoods and other dense materials may require thinner stock. Maximum cutting thickness is determined by the saw's throat height and motor power.

Do I need any special electrical setup for a scroll saw?

No special wiring is required. All scroll saws we stock at TooledUp.com run on standard UK 230V mains power with a standard 13A plug. Simply plug into any standard UK socket outlet. For workshop use, consider an RCD-protected circuit for additional safety.

How often should I change scroll saw blades?

Replace blades when you notice decreased cutting performance, rough cut edges, blade wandering, or excessive burning of the wood. Blade life varies considerably depending on materials cut and usage intensity. Many woodworkers keep several blade types in stock and change them based on the specific material and detail level required rather than waiting for complete blade failure.