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Not Sure Which Blade? We Can Help.
Interactive tools to find the right Olson blade for your project
⚙ Scroll Saw Blade Finder Find the perfect blade by type, material, and tooth style EXPLORE GUIDE ⚙ Band Saw Blade Finder Search by saw brand, blade length, or material to cut FIND YOUR BLADE
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Types of scroll saw blades – What Scroll Saw Blade Should I Buy?

Back to all

Types of scroll saw blades – What Scroll Saw Blade Should I Buy?

Types of scroll saw blades - choosing the right scroll saw blade depends on various factors, including the type of material you will be cutting, the complexity of the cuts, the desired finish, and the specific scroll saw you are using. Scroll saw blades come in many types and sizes, each suited for different tasks. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you select the appropriate scroll saw blade for your needs:

Factors to Consider

Material:

Wood: For most wood cutting tasks, a standard blade or a skip-tooth blade is recommended. For harder woods, a blade with fewer teeth per inch (TPI) might be more effective.

Metal: Use a metal-cutting blade, which typically has a higher TPI and is made of more durable materials.

Plastic: Blades designed for plastics usually have a medium TPI to prevent melting and ensure a smooth cut.

Cut Type:

Intricate Cuts: For detailed and intricate patterns, use a fine-tooth blade or a spiral blade that can cut in any direction.

Straight Cuts: Standard or skip-tooth blades are suitable for making straight cuts.

Aggressive Cuts: For faster, rougher cuts, a larger TPI blade like a skip-tooth or double-tooth blade may be ideal.

Blade Size and TPI:

TPI (Teeth Per Inch): The higher the TPI, the smoother the cut but slower the cutting speed. Lower TPI blades cut faster but may leave a rougher edge.

Blade Width and Thickness: Thinner blades are more flexible and can make tighter turns but are also more prone to breaking. Thicker blades are sturdier but less maneuverable.

Blade Type:

Skip-Tooth Blades: Every other tooth is missing, which helps in clearing sawdust and reduces heat buildup. Good for beginners and versatile for various materials.

Double-Tooth Blades: Similar to skip-tooth but with pairs of teeth followed by a gap. These blades provide smoother cuts.

Reverse-Tooth Blades: Have a few teeth at the bottom facing the opposite direction to minimize splintering on the underside of the material.

Spiral Blades: Teeth are twisted around the blade, allowing cutting in any direction without turning the workpiece. Ideal for intricate cuts but can be harder to control.

Crown-Tooth Blades: Teeth are shaped like crowns, cutting on both the up and down stroke, reducing tear-out and providing smoother cuts.

Blade Material:

Carbon Steel: Common and affordable, suitable for wood and soft materials.

Bi-Metal: Combines flexibility and durability, good for metal and hard materials.

Carbide: Extremely hard and durable, ideal for cutting hard materials like ceramics and hardened metals.

Recommended Blades for Different Tasks

General Woodworking:

Blade: Olson Saw FR49400 Skip Tooth Scroll Saw Blade

Features: Excellent for a wide range of woods, good balance of speed and smoothness.

Intricate Cuts in Wood:

Blade: Olson PGT49502 Double Reverse Tooth Scroll Saw Blade

Features: Fine teeth, reverse teeth to minimize splintering, ideal for detailed work.

Metal Cutting:

Blade: Olson FR44000 Metal-Cutting Scroll Saw Blade

Features: High TPI, durable for cutting non-ferrous metals.

Plastic Cutting:

Blade: Olson Saw PG49802 Precision Ground Scroll Saw Blade

Features: Medium TPI, sharp and smooth cuts in plastics.

Versatility and Beginner-Friendly:

Blade: Olson’s Crown Tooth blade CT62900 Scroll Saw Blade

Features: Unique tooth design allows the blade to cut on both the up and downstroke, provide smooth cuts and is easy to control, good for beginners.

Tips for Choosing and Using Scroll Saw Blades

Skip Tooth Scroll Saw Blades 5-in. long

Match the Blade to the Task: Always choose a blade that matches the material and type of cut you need to make. Use Olson’s Scroll Saw Blade Selection Chart.

Check Compatibility: Ensure the blade is compatible with your scroll saw model. Does your saw use Pin End or Plain end blades?

Blade Tension: Properly tension the blade according to the manufacturer’s recommendations to prevent breaking and ensure clean cuts.

Experiment and Practice: If you’re unsure, buy a variety pack of blades and experiment to find which ones work best for your specific needs and preferences.

Selecting the right scroll saw blade involves considering the material you are cutting, the type of cuts you need, the blade's TPI, and the specific blade design. By understanding these factors and matching them to your projects, you can choose the ideal blade that provides the best balance of speed, precision, and smoothness. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced scroll saw user, having the right blades will significantly enhance your woodworking, metalworking, or crafting projects.

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