Scroll saws are used for cutting curves that are too intricate for a coping saw or jigsaw. The blade of the scroll saw moves straight up and down and can be moved to a pre-drilled starting hole. This allows for more precise cuts without an entry slot at the edge of the board you are working on. Hegner scroll saws offer smooth and quiet operation. They have a unique blade motion that lifts the work less than a typical scroll saw. The parts of a Hegner saw are crafted from cast iron, while the light alloy arms provide complete control.

  • Scroll saws are used for cutting curves that are too intricate for a coping saw or jigsaw.
  • They have a unique blade motion that lifts the work less than a typical scroll saw.

Outline your desired design on the lumber with a pencil. Draw it dark enough so it is clearly visible and easy to see when you are cutting with the scroll saw.

Set the saw on a flat and steady surface. Attach the Hegner scroll saw to the surface with bolts. Locate the three holes in the base of the Hegner saw and pre-drill holes through them into the surface underneath with a power drill. Insert a bolt into each one of the holes and slide a lock washer underneath the surface on the bolt. Tighten it down by hand.

  • Set the saw on a flat and steady surface.
  • Insert a bolt into each one of the holes and slide a lock washer underneath the surface on the bolt.

Plug the saw in to the nearest outlet, and set the piece of lumber you will be cutting against the blade of the scroll saw. Line up the blade of the scroll saw to the pencil mark at the edge of the lumber. Tighten down the blade by hand. Turn the knob directly above the blade clockwise until there is resistance. Make a half-turn after you feel tension.

Locate the speed-control box on the side of the saw and remove the belt guard by hand. Release the locking lever and slide the motor forward to release the belt tension. Reposition the belt so it is in the same pulley position at both ends. The saw operates at four speeds, with the highest speed when the belt is closest to the motor. Push the motor back to re-tension the belt and lock lever. Reposition the belt guard.

  • Locate the speed-control box on the side of the saw and remove the belt guard by hand.

Turn on the scroll saw. Flip the switch on the control box. Hold the lumber with one hand on each side. Turn the lumber and follow the pencil mark along the blade of the saw. Cut along the line, carefully following the blade on the lumber. Keep your hands away from the blade so they do not come into contact with it, and continue until the desired shape has been cut.

Turn off the saw, and wipe away any sawdust from the lumber with a clean rag. Inspect the lumber to verify the proper cut was made. Repeat the process for all of the pieces of lumber you need to cut.

TIP

The saw is shipped at the second-slowest speed. Operate the saw at this speed or slower for the first two hours. This is known as a break-in period.

WARNING

Keep your hands as far away from the blade as possible when you are working with the Hegner scroll saw. Always wear safety goggles to protect your eyes from flying pieces of wood or debris. Never operate the machine unless the belt guard and all other guards are in place.