Choosing the Perfect Wood: Exploring the World of Wood for Scroll Sawing and Intarsia

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When it comes to scroll sawing and entering the realm of intarsia, the choice of wood plays a vital role in the outcome of our projects. Each type of wood possesses unique characteristics that affect cutting precision, grain patterns, and overall aesthetics. In this blog post, I will delve into the world of different woods commonly used in scroll sawing. I will also discuss qualities of some of my favorite wood to work with, offer tips for working with each wood, highlight the best woods for specific projects, and provide recommendations for sourcing quality materials. Let's embark on this exploration of wood for scroll sawing!

Image from KJP Select Hardwoods

Remember to consider the specific characteristics and working properties of each wood type when selecting materials for your projects. Experimentation with different woods will enable you to explore a variety of visual effects and create truly stunning pieces of art.

Hardwoods:

1.1. Oak: Known for its strength and durability, oak is a popular choice for scroll saw projects. It has a distinctive grain pattern that adds visual interest to the finished piece. Oak requires sharp blades due to its density, so ensure your blades are in optimal condition.

1.2. Walnut: Walnut offers rich, dark tones and a beautiful straight grain. It is relatively easy to work with and lends an elegant touch to scroll saw projects. Be mindful of the hardness of walnut, as it may require slower feed rates and sharp blades.

1.3. Maple: Maple is renowned for its light color and tight, even grain. It is an excellent choice for intricate designs and delicate pieces. Take caution when cutting maple as it can be prone to burning if the blade speed is too high.

1.4. Cherry: Cherry wood exhibits a warm reddish-brown color that deepens with age, making it a popular choice for scroll saw projects. It has a straight grain with occasional natural markings, adding character to the finished piece. Cherry is relatively easy to work with and offers a smooth cutting experience.

1.5. Ash: Ash is a strong and flexible wood known for its light color and prominent grain patterns. It is an excellent choice for larger scroll saw projects, such as furniture accents or decorative wall hangings. Ash is relatively forgiving to work with, allowing for crisp cuts and fine detail work.

Softwoods:

2.1. Pine: Pine is a popular choice for beginners due to its affordability and availability. It is relatively soft and forgiving, making it easier to cut and sand. However, its softness may cause it to be more prone to splintering, so use sharp blades and exercise care during cutting.

2.2. Cedar: Cedar boasts a pleasant aroma and beautiful reddish-brown color. It is a stable wood that resists warping, making it suitable for outdoor projects like decorative signs and birdhouses. Its softness allows for smoother cutting and sanding.

2.3. Cypress: Cypress is a softwood known for its durability and resistance to rot, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor scroll saw projects. It possesses a light yellow to reddish-brown color and has a straight grain with occasional knots, adding a rustic charm to the finished piece.

2.4. Fir: Fir is a softwood that is easy to work with and readily available. It has a light color and a straight grain with minimal knots. Fir is commonly used for scroll saw projects that require stability and structural support, such as frames or intricate architectural elements.

Exotic Woods:

3.1. Mahogany: Mahogany offers a timeless beauty with its reddish-brown hue and interlocking grain. It is a versatile wood that works well for a wide range of scroll saw projects, from furniture accents to intricate wall hangings. Exercise care when cutting mahogany to prevent tear-out.

3.2. Zebrawood: Zebrawood derives its name from its striking striped appearance, resembling the stripes of a zebra. It adds a unique visual appeal to scroll saw projects, particularly when used as an accent or in segmented designs. Zebrawood can be challenging to cut due to its hardness, so use sharp blades and a slower feed rate.

3.3. Ebony: Ebony is a dense and dark hardwood that offers a rich black color with occasional streaks. It is highly sought after for its smooth texture and elegant appearance. Ebony requires sharp blades and slower feed rates due to its hardness, but it can result in striking scroll saw projects with intricate detailing.

3.4. Purpleheart: Purpleheart is an exotic hardwood that showcases a vibrant purple hue, which deepens over time when exposed to light. It possesses a straight grain and a medium to fine texture. Purpleheart is a versatile wood that adds a bold and unique touch to scroll saw projects, particularly in contrast with lighter-colored woods.

Sourcing Quality Materials:

  • When acquiring wood for scroll sawing projects, consider the following tips:
  • Visit local lumberyards or specialty woodworking stores for a variety of wood options.
  • Online suppliers offer convenience and a wider selection. Read reviews and ensure the supplier has a good reputation for providing quality materials.
  • Look for sustainably sourced wood to support responsible forestry practices.
  • Purchase wood that is properly kiln-dried to prevent warping and ensure stability.

My Favorite Online Suppliers:

  • https://www.ocoochhardwoods.com/
  • https://kjpselecthardwoods.com/
  • https://www.rarewoodsusa.com/species/

Choosing the right wood is essential for successful scroll sawing projects. By understanding the characteristics of various wood types and following the tips provided in this guide, you can enhance your scroll sawing experience and achieve impressive results. Experiment with different woods, explore their unique grain patterns, and let your creativity soar. 

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